In 2011, Myanmar began its transition to democracy after nearly a half-century under oppressive military rule. Kachin, Myanmar’s northernmost state, has seen conflict between the Kachin Independence Army and the Myanmar military since 1961, in a struggle for federal autonomy.Intermittent conflict since a ceasefire broke down in 2011 has displaced more than 100,000 people. Bordering China’s Yunnan Province, the state that is rich in jade, timber, and amber, has also struggled with corrupt and often illegal resource extraction — with devastating environmental impacts and profits remaining in the hands of a few. Myanmar is also a leading producer of opium poppies and methamphetamine, particularly in its northern border regions. With limited job and educational opportunities, many of Kachin’s youth have fallen victim to drugs.“They liked my poses — I did splits exactly like Van Damme,” he said.
Mung Ban working out at his gym. Photo by Sana Seng Lat Awng.
Outside Hammer Gym. Photo by Emily Fishbein.
Zau Awng preparing to go onstage at a bodybuilding contest. Photo courtesy of Lahpai Zau Awng.
When Mung Ban opened Hammer eight years ago, “people considered those who worked out as stupid; nothing but buff dudes,” he said.But times have changed. Government trainer Zing Myint Zaw, who has trained around 500 bodybuilders in his 27-year career, including Mung Ban and Zau Awng, said: “Doctors [in Kachin] are telling people to work out. Diabetes is becoming more common, and obesity too. People want to have a fit body like in the movies.”“I’ll be proud of my trainees if they achieve more than me,” he told VICE. “A person should be fruitful; I wish that my business can benefit many people.”
Mung Ban (third from left) and other bodybuilders at the Kachin National Manau Park in front of Hammer Gym. Photo by Sana Seng Lat Awng.