NPC WORLDWIDE REGISTRATION
CONTEST SCHEDULE
PRO QUALIFIER CONTEST INFORMATION
REGIONAL CONTEST INFORMATION
RULES
PRO CARD WINNERS
*Each member of NPC Worldwide is solely responsible for abiding by these rules.
RULE 1 – Athletes must have an NPC Worldwide membership to compete in a Regional or Pro Qualifier. Membership is valid for a calendar year. US athletes only require an NPC membership. Membership is verified before each contest.
RULE 2 – Athletes who reside in a country with a Regional Certificate requirement must compete in a Regional in their country before competing in a Pro Qualifier. Regional Certificates are valid only within the same calendar year. Regional certification is verified before each contest.
RULE 2A – Athletes must compete under the rules of the country in which they reside.
RULE 3 – If an Athlete resides in a country with a Regional Certificate requirement but there are no Regionals in that country until later in the year, the Athlete may compete in a Pro Qualifier anywhere in the world provided the Pro Qualifier is held before the first Regional in the Athlete’s country. When this Regional is held, the Athlete may not compete in any other Pro Qualifier without first obtaining a Regional Certificate from the Athlete’s country. Failure to abide by this rule will result in disqualification from the Pro Qualifier.
RULE 4 – The following countries have a Regional Certificate requirement: Argentina, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Cambodia, Chile, Colombia, Denmark, Ecuador, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Russia, South Africa, South Korea, Singapore, Spain, Switzerland, [District of] Taiwan, Thailand, United Kingdom, Uruguay, Vietnam
- Athletes from Denmark and Finland may compete in a Regional in Denmark or Finland to fulfill the Regional Certificate requirement.
- Athletes from Argentina, Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Peru and Uruguay may compete in a Regional in any one of these eight countries to fulfill the Regional Certificate requirement.
- Athletes from Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam may compete in a Regional in any one of these seven countries to fulfill the Regional Certificate requirement.
- Athletes from Belgium, Luxembourg and the Netherlands may compete in a Regional in any one of these three countries to fulfill the Regional Certificate requirement.
RULE 5 – US athletes must be nationally qualified by placing in the top 2 in an open class at an NPC regional contest held in the current year, or previous year, before competing in an NPC Worldwide Pro Qualifier. US athletes who are posted overseas, or whose employment requires them to work overseas, are exempt from this requirement and must compete under the rules of the country in which they reside. Canadian athletes must compete in a Canadian pro qualifier not more than one year before competing in a Regional or Pro Qualifier, except for the Arnold Amateur (USA) where only a current CPA membership is required.
RULE 6 – Athletes who earn IFBB PRO status at a Pro Qualifier have one year to apply for such status failing which the Athlete must requalify.
RULE 7 – The number of IFBB PRO cards awarded at NPC Worldwide Masters contests will be decided by NPC Worldwide and the IFBB Professional League.
RULE 8 – As of January 1, 2022, if an Open division at a Pro Qualifier has less than five competitors, the division winner may petition the IFBB Professional League for IFBB PRO status. The petition must:
- be submitted in writing to info@ifbb-proleague.com;
- be received by the IFBB Professional League no later than 14 days after the date of the Finals. Petitions received after the
14-day deadline will not be considered; - include official stage photographs of the individual poses and all comparison poses; and
- for Fitness, include a video of the fitness routine.
RULE 9 – If an Athlete qualifies for an IFBB PRO card at a Pro Qualifier and, before applying for the card, competes in another Pro Qualifier or participates in a competition or event that is not sanctioned by NPC Worldwide or the IFBB Professional League, the Athlete automatically and without notice forfeits the right to apply for the card. Participation includes, but is not limited to, competing, judging, officiating, promoting, advertising (to include using one’s likeness) or otherwise endorsing a competition or event that is not sanctioned by NPC Worldwide or the IFBB Professional League.
RULE 10 – “True Novice” means a competitor who has never competed within NPC Worldwide. “Novice” means a competitor who, in the current contest year, has NOT won an Overall in a Novice, Masters or Open contest, or who has NOT won in an Open class with three or more competitors. “Junior” means a competitor who is 18-23 years old. “Master” means a competitor who is 35 years of age or older.
RULE 11 – At an Amateur Olympia Pro Qualifier:
- if there are less than 15 competitors in a division, they will compete in one class; and
- the number of IFBB PRO cards awarded is detailed in Table 3 of these rules.
RULE 12 – The number of classes in a division at a Pro Qualifier may be changed by NPC Worldwide at its sole discretion at any time before the competition.
Here is a PDF version of these rules NPCWW to IFBB PROFESSIONAL LEAGUEE.
*These rules are subject to change without notice. Please contact Tony Blinn at tblinn@ifbbpro.com if you have any questions.
GENERAL RULES
Check-in
All competitors must present themselves at Check-in where they will be registered and, if required, weighed and height-measured.
Music
If required, all music must be submitted at Check-in.
Backstage Access
The only people permitted in the backstage area are approved officials and media.
Competitor Health
1. Any competitor who appears to be disoriented or light-headed, or who experiences undue cramping, will not be permitted to compete.
2. Any competitor disqualified for health reasons must be checked by the attending EMT and, if it is advised by the EMT, must go to the nearest hospital for evaluation.
3. Competitors who refuse to be evaluated by the EMT or at the hospital will be suspended from competition for a period of one year from the date of the occurrence.
Jump to: MEN’S BODYBUILDING RULES
Jump to: WOMEN’S BODYBUILDING RULES
Jump to: WOMEN’S FITNESS RULES
Jump to: WOMEN’S FIGURE RULES
Jump to: WOMEN’S BIKINI RULES
Jump to: MEN’S PHYSIQUE RULES
Jump to: WOMEN’S PHYSIQUE RULES
Jump to: MEN’S CLASSIC PHYSIQUE RULES
Jump to: WOMEN’S WELLNESS RULES
MEN’S BODYBUILDING RULES
1. CLASSES
For contests with 2 classes:
Lightweight | up to and including 176 ¼ lbs (80 kg) |
Heavyweight | over 176 ¼ lbs (80 kg) |
For contests with 3 classes:
Lightweight | up to and including 165 ¼ lbs (75 kg) |
Middleweight | over 165 ¼ lbs (75 kg) up to and including 187 ¼ lbs (85 kg) |
Heavyweight | over 187 ¼ lbs (85 kg) |
For contests with 4 classes:
Bantamweight | up to and including 154 ¼ lbs (70 kg) |
Lightweight | over 154 ¼ lbs (70 kg) up to and including 176 ¼ lbs (80 kg) |
Light-Heavyweight | over 176 ¼ lbs (80 kg) up to and including 198 ¼ lbs (90 kg) |
Heavyweight | over 198 ¼ lbs (90 kg) |
For contests with 5 classes:
Bantamweight | up to and including 143 ¼ lbs (65 kg) |
Lightweight | over 143 ¼ lbs (65 kg) up to and including 154 ¼ lbs (70 kg) |
Middleweight | over 154 ¼ lbs (70 kg) up to and including 176 ¼ lbs (80 kg) |
Light-Heavyweight | over 176 ¼ lbs (80 kg) up to and including 198 ¼ lbs (90 kg) |
Heavyweight | over 198 ¼ lbs (90 kg) |
For contests with 6 classes:
Bantamweight | up to and including 143 ¼ lbs (65 kg) |
Lightweight | over 143 ¼ lbs (65 kg) up to and including 154 ¼ lbs (70 kg) |
Middleweight | over 154 ¼ lbs (70 kg) up to and including 176 ¼ lbs (80 kg) |
Light-Heavyweight | over 176 ¼ lbs (80 kg) up to and including 198 ¼ lbs (90 kg) |
Heavyweight | over 198 ¼ lbs (90 kg) up to and including 225 ¼ lbs (102 kg) |
Super Heavyweight | over 225 ¼ lbs (102 kg) |
For contests with 7 classes:
Bantamweight | up to and including 143 ¼ lbs (65 kg) |
Lightweight | over 143 ¼ lbs (65 kg) up to and including 154 ¼ lbs (70 kg) |
Welterweight | over 154 ¼ lbs (70 kg) up to and including 165 ¼ lbs (75 kg) |
Middleweight | over 165 ¼ lbs (75 kg) up to and including 176 ¼ lbs (80 kg) |
Light-Heavyweight | over 176 ¼ lbs (80 kg) up to and including 198 ¼ lbs (90 kg) |
Heavyweight | over 198 ¼ lbs (90 kg) up to and including 225 ¼ lbs (102 kg) |
Super Heavyweight | over 225 ¼ lbs (102 kg) |
2. ATTIRE
1. Posing suits must be standard men’s swimsuit with at least ½ rear coverage. Suits must meet acceptable standards of taste and decency. Thongs are prohibited.
2. Posing suits must be one color. Fringe, wording, sparkle or fluorescents is prohibited.
3. Competitors must not alter the fit of the posing suit by hiking it up in the back or by pulling up the sides during Front and Rear Lat Spreads.
3. MUSIC
1. Posing music must be on a CD or USB stick.
2. Posing music must be the only music on the CD or USB stick.
3. Posing music must not contain vulgar lyrics. Competitors using music containing vulgar lyrics will be disqualified.
4. ONSTAGE
1. During the Judging, competitors shall not wear jewelry except for a wedding band.
2. Prescription eyewear (except sun glasses) is permitted.
3. The following is prohibited while onstage:
a. Props
b. Chewing gum
c. “Moon Pose” (any competitor performing this pose will be disqualified)
d. Lying on the stage.
e. Bumping and shoving (the first and second person involved will be disqualified)
4. Competitor numbers must be worn on the left side of the posing suit during the Judging and Finals.
5. FORMAT
JUDGING
Presentation
1. Each competitor proceeds to center-stage individually in numerical order and automatically performs the mandatory poses. No signal from the Head Judge is required.
2. Each competitor has a maximum of 60 seconds to perform the poses. A warning will be given when 10 seconds remain.
3. Competitors are not required to use the full 60 seconds.
4. The mandatory poses are:
a. Front Double Biceps
b. Front Lat Spread
c. Side Chest
d. Back Double Biceps
e. Back Lat Spread
f. Side Triceps
g. Abdominals and Thighs
Comparisons
1. The Head Judge will call the competitors, in small groups and in numerical order, to center stage to perform the quarter turns and mandatory poses.
2. In the call-outs, the Head Judge will direct specific competitors to perform the quarter turns and mandatory poses. Judges will have the opportunity to compare competitors against each other.
*Judges will score competitors according to the “total package”, which is a balance of size, symmetry and muscularity.
FINALS
Routine
1. Competitors are called onstage individually in numerical order to perform a posing routine to music of the competitor’s choice.
2. The length of the posing routine is a maximum of 60 seconds.
3. Depending on the number of competitors, the promoter and Head Judge may decide that only the top finalists shall perform their posing routine.
Confirmation (if necessary*)
Competitors are called onstage and, under the direction of the Head Judge, are compared in groups while performing the mandatory poses.
*The judging panel, at its sole discretion, reserves the right to re-judge using a Confirmation round.
Posedown (overall title only)
The top finalists take part in a 60-second posedown.
6. SCORING
1. The Judging is scored 100%.
2. Ties are broken using the Relative Placement method.
WOMEN’S BODYBUILDING RULES
1. CLASSES
For contests with 2 classes:
Lightweight | up to and including 125 lbs (57 kg) |
Heavyweight | over 125 lbs (57 kg) |
For contests with 3 classes:
Lightweight | up to and including 125 lbs (57 kg) |
Middleweight | over 125 lbs (57 kg) up to and including 140 lbs (64 kg) |
Heavyweight | over 140 lbs (64 kg) |
For contests with 4 classes:
Lightweight | up to and including 115 lbs (52 kg) |
Middleweight | over 115 lbs (52 kg) up to and including 125 lbs (57 kg) |
Light-Heavyweight | over 125 lbs (57 kg) up to and including 140 lbs (64 kg) |
Heavyweight | over 140 lbs (64 kg) |
2. ATTIRE
1. Posing suit bottoms must be V-shaped with at least ½ rear coverage. Suits must meet acceptable standards of taste and decency. Thongs are prohibited.
2. Posing suits may include a printed design with fringes, lace, sparkle or fluorescents.
3. Competitors must not alter the fit of the posing suit by hiking it up in the back or by pulling up the sides during Front and Rear Lat Spreads.
3. MUSIC
1. Posing music must be on a CD or USB stick.
2. Posing music must be the only music on the CD or USB stick.
3. Posing music must not contain vulgar lyrics. Competitors using music containing vulgar lyrics will be disqualified.
4. ONSTAGE
1. During the Judging, competitors shall not wear jewelry except for a wedding band. During the Finals, earrings and other jewelry may be worn.
2. During the Judging, the hair must be worn up, off the shoulders and back. Decorative pieces in the hair are prohibited. During the Finals, the hair may be worn down and decorative pieces in the hair are permitted.
3. Prescription eyewear (except sunglasses) is permitted.
4. The following is prohibited while onstage:
a. Props
b. Chewing gum
c. “Moon Pose” (any competitor performing this pose will be disqualified)
d. Lying on the stage.
e. Bumping and shoving (the first and second person involved will be disqualified)
5. Competitor numbers must be worn on the left side of the posing suit bottom during the Judging and Finals.
5. FORMAT
JUDGING
Presentation
1. Each competitor proceeds to center-stage individually in numerical order and automatically performs the mandatory poses. No signal from the Head Judge is required.
2. Each competitor has a maximum of 60 seconds to perform the poses. A warning will be given when 10 seconds remain.
3. Competitors are not required to use the full 60 seconds.
4. The mandatory poses are:
a. Front Double Biceps
b. Front Lat Spread
c. Side Chest
d. Back Double Biceps
e. Back Lat Spread
f. Side Triceps
g. Abdominals and Thighs
Comparisons
1. The Head Judge will call the competitors, in small groups and in numerical order, to center stage to perform the quarter turns and mandatory poses.
2. In the call-outs, the Head Judge will direct specific competitors to perform the quarter turns and mandatory poses. Judges will have the opportunity to compare competitors against each other.
*Judges will score competitors according to the “total package”, which is a balance of size, symmetry and muscularity.
FINALS
Routine
1. Competitors are called onstage individually in numerical order to perform a posing routine to music of the competitor’s choice.
2. The length of the posing routine is a maximum of 60 seconds.
3. Depending on the number of competitors, the promoter and Head Judge may decide that only the top finalists shall perform their posing routine.
Confirmation (if necessary*)
Competitors are called onstage and, under the direction of the Head Judge, are compared in groups while performing the mandatory poses.
*The judging panel, at its sole discretion, reserves the right to re-judge using a Confirmation round.
Posedown (overall title only)
The top finalists take part in a 60-second posedown.
6. SCORING
1. The Judging is scored 100%.
2. Ties are broken using the Relative Placement method.
WOMEN’S FITNESS RULES
1. CLASSES
For contests with 2 classes:
Class A | Up to and including 5’ 3” (160 cm) |
Class B | Over 5’ 3” (160 cm) |
For contests with 3 classes:
Class A | Up to and including 5’ 2” (157 cm) |
Class B | Over 5’ 2” and up to and including 5’ 4 ½” (164 cm) |
Class C | Over 5’ 4 ½” (164 cm) |
2. ATTIRE
1. Competitors may dress as they deem appropriate to perform their fitness routines, except that:
a. Fitness routine attire must meet acceptable standards of taste and decency.
b. Thongs are prohibited.
2. Athletic footwear may be worn at the discretion of the competitor.
3. MUSIC
1. Routine music must be on a CD or USB stick.
2. Routine music must be the only music on the CD or USB stick.
3. Routine music must not contain vulgar lyrics. Competitors using music containing vulgar lyrics will be disqualified.
4. ONSTAGE
1. Prescription eyewear is permitted. Sunglasses are permitted if they are an accessory to the routine attire.
2. Competitor numbers must be worn on the left side of the routine attire.
3. Props are permitted under the following conditions:
a. They must be of a size and weight to allow transport onto and off the stage by the competitor, without assistance.
b. They must not leave any residue on the stage that might cause a safety hazard for other competitors, or that might require cleaning the stage before subsequent use by other competitors.
c. If discarded during the routine, they must be transported off the stage by the competitor, without assistance.
4. Competitors are prohibited from wearing product i.e. oils, lotions, creams, etc. that may leave slippery residue on the stage.
5. FORMAT
WOMEN’S FIGURE RULES
1. CLASSES
For all contests with 2 classes:
Class A | Up to and including 5’ 4” (163 cm) |
Class B | Over 5’ 4” (163 cm) |
For all contests with 3 classes:
Class A | Up to and including 5’ 4” (163 cm) |
Class B | Over 5’ 4” and up to and including 5’ 6” (168 cm) |
Class C | Over 5’ 6” (168 cm) |
For all contests with 4 classes:
Class A | Up to and including 5’ 2” (157 cm) |
Class B | Over 5’ 2” and up to and including 5’ 4” (163 cm) |
Class C | Over 5’ 4” and up to and including 5’ 6” (168 cm) |
Class D | Over 5’ 6” (168 cm) |
For all contests with 6 classes:
Class A | Up to and including 5’ 1” (155 cm) |
Class B | Over 5’ 1” and up to and including 5’ 2 ½” (159 cm) |
Class C | Over 5’ 2 ½” and up to and including 5’ 4” (163 cm) |
Class D | Over 5’ 4” and up to and including 5’ 5 ½” (166 cm) |
Class E | Over 5’ 5 ½” and up to and including 5’ 7” (170 cm) |
Class F | Over 5’ 7” (170 cm) |
2. ATTIRE
1. Competitors compete in a two-piece suit. The bottom of the suit must be v-shaped. Thongs are prohibited. Competitors can compete in an off-the-rack suit. All suits must meet acceptable standards of taste and decency.
2. Competitors must wear high heels.
3. Competitors may wear jewelry.
3. ONSTAGE
1. Prescription eyewear (except sunglasses) is permitted.
2. Competitor numbers must be worn on the left side of the suit bottom at all times while onstage.
4. FORMAT
JUDGING
Presentation
1. Each competitor, in numerical order, walks to the center of the stage and performs the quarter turns. Length of time allowed is 30 seconds.
2. Depending on the number of competitors in the class, each competitor may be directed to:
a. exit the stage until the entire class has performed the quarter turns at which time the entire class is called back onstage; or
b. line up along diagonal lines on the sides of the stage.
Comparisons
1. The Head Judge will call the competitors, in small groups and in numerical order, to center stage to perform the quarter turns.
2. In the call-outs, the Head Judge will direct specific competitors to perform the quarter turns. Judges will have the opportunity to compare competitors against each other.
5. SCORING
The Presentation and Comparisons are scored 100% using the following criteria:
1. Small degree of muscularity with separation, no visible striations
2. Overall muscle tone with shapely lines, overall firmness and not excessively lean
3. Full general assessment
4. Healthy appearance
5. Skin tone and make-up
*If necessary, the judging panel, at its sole discretion, reserves the right to re-judge at the Finals using a Confirmation round.
WOMEN’S BIKINI RULES
1. CLASSES
For all contests with 2 classes:
Class A | Up to and including 5’ 4” (163 cm) |
Class B | Over 5’ 4” (163 cm) |
For all contests with 3 classes:
Class A | Up to and including 5’ 4” (163 cm) |
Class B | Over 5’ 4” and up to and including 5’ 6” (168 cm) |
Class C | Over 5’ 6” (168 cm) |
For all contests with 4 classes:
Class A | Up to and including 5’ 2” (157 cm) |
Class B | Over 5’ 2” and up to and including 5’ 4” (163 cm) |
Class C | Over 5’ 4” and up to and including 5’ 6” (168 cm) |
Class D | Over 5’ 6” (168 cm) |
For all contests with 6 classes:
Class A | Up to and including 5’ 1” (155 cm) |
Class B | Over 5’ 1” and up to and including 5’ 2 ½” (159 cm) |
Class C | Over 5’ 2 ½” and up to and including 5’ 4” (163 cm) |
Class D | Over 5’ 4” and up to and including 5’ 5 ½” (166 cm) |
Class E | Over 5’ 5 ½” and up to and including 5’ 7” (170 cm) |
Class F | Over 5’ 7” (170 cm) |
For all contests with 8 classes:
Class A | Up to and including 5’ 1” (155 cm) |
Class B | Over 5’ 1” and up to and including 5’ 2” (157 cm) |
Class C | Over 5’ 2” and up to and including 5’ 3” (160 cm) |
Class D | Over 5’ 3” and up to and including 5’ 4” (163 cm) |
Class E | Over 5’ 4” and up to and including 5’ 5” (165 cm) |
Class F | Over 5’ 5” and up to and including 5’ 6” (168 cm) |
Class G | Over 5’ 6” and up to and including 5’ 7” (170 cm) |
Class H | Over 5’ 7” (170 cm) |
NPC, NPC WORLDWIDE & IFBB PROFESSIONAL LEAGUE
UPDATED BIKINI RULES, MARCH 2020
BIKINI COMPETITOR RULES
- PRESENTATION
- Competitors will walk on stage alone and perform their Model Walk (personal preference)
- The Model Walk consists of the following:
Walk to the center of the stage, stop and do a front stance, then a full turn and do a back stance, then turn to the front again and face the judges as directed, then proceed to the side of the stage. No lewd acts are permitted. Length of time allowed is 10 seconds.
- NOTE: We do not want to see the arm off to the side with the elbow bent and the wrist bent upwards or downwards.
- COMPARISON ROUND, TWO-PIECE SWIMSUIT
- Competitors will be judged wearing a two-piece swimsuit and heels.
- The competitors will be brought back out in a group and directed to do a full front and back stance.
- Judges will have the opportunity to compare competitors against each other in half turns. (No side judging permitted, front and back only.)
- NOTE: We do not want to see the arm off to the side with the elbow bent and the wrist bent upwards or downwards.
- SCORING
Judges will be scoring competitors using the following criteria:
- Balance and Shape
- Overall physical appearance including complexion, skin tone, poise and overall presentation.
Correct Posing (see example images below)
Incorrect Posing (see example images below)
BIKINI COMPETITOR RULES
- Competitors will compete in a two-piece suit. The bottom of the suit must be v-shaped. No Thongs are permitted. Competitors can compete in an off-the-rack suit. All swimsuits must be in good taste. Athletes will be warned about improper suits and are advised to bring two (2) suits to check in. If the fronts of the suit(s) bottoms are too low and the judges deem them so at check-in’s, then the suit must be constructed higher, otherwise the Athletes will be scored down if the suit is not up to standard.
- Competitors must wear high heels.
- Competitors may wear jewelry.
*Note: The NPC, NPC Worldwide and IFBB Professional League Have Not Authorized or Granted the license, authority or exclusivity to any competition suit company or designer to be their Official Suit Maker and to advertise their suits as an Official Cut or Approved Cut. There has never been an Official or Approved “Pro Cut Bikini” for Any Division! That term was erroneously created by suit makers.
Full Bikini Rules Can Be Viewed Here: http://npcnewsonline.com/bikini-rules/
MEN’S PHYSIQUE RULES
1. CLASSES
For all contests with 2 classes:
Class A | Up to and including 5’ 8” (173 cm) |
Class B | Over 5’ 8” (173 cm) |
For all contests with 3 classes:
Class A | Up to and including 5’ 7” (170 cm) |
Class B | Over 5’ 7” and up to and including 5’ 10” (178 cm) |
Class C | Over 5’ 10” (178 cm) |
For all contests with 4 classes:
Class A | Up to and including 5’ 6” (168 cm) |
Class B | Over 5’ 6” and up to and including 5’ 8” (173 cm) |
Class C | Over 5’ 8” and up to and including 5’ 10” (178 cm) |
Class D | Over 5’ 10” (178 cm) |
For all contests with 6 classes:
Class A | Up to & including 5’ 7” (170 cm) |
Class B | Over 5’ 7” and up to and including 5’ 8” (173 cm) |
Class C | Over 5’ 8” and up to and including 5’ 9” (175 cm) |
Class D | Over 5’ 9” and up to and including 5’ 11” (180 cm) |
Class E | Over 5’ 11” and up to and including 6’ (183 cm) |
Class F | Over 6’ (183 cm) |
For all contests with 8 classes:
Class A | Up to & including 5’ 6” (168 cm) |
Class B | Over 5’ 6” and up to and including 5’ 7 ½” (171 cm) |
Class C | Over 5’ 7 ½” and up to and including 5’ 8 ½” (174 cm) |
Class D | Over 5’ 8 ½” and up to and including 5’ 9 ½” (177 cm) |
Class E | Over 5’ 9 ½” and up to and including 5’ 10 ½’ (179 cm) |
Class F | Over 5’ 10 ½” and up to and including 5’ 11 ½” (182 cm) |
Class G | Over 5’ 11 ½” and up to and including 6’ 1” (185 cm) |
Class H | Over 6’ 1” (185 cm) |
2. ATTIRE
1. Competitors compete in Board Shorts.
2. The shorts must be above the knee in length and can be 1” below the belly button.
3. Spandix is not permitted.
4. Logos are not permitted except that a manufacturer’s logo (i.e. Nike, Billabong) is acceptable.
5. Competitors complete shirtless and barefoot.
3. ONSTAGE
1. Prescription eyewear (except sunglasses) is permitted.
2. Competitor numbers must be worn on the left side of the shorts at all times while onstage.
3. The “Moon Pose” is prohibited.
4. Gymnastic moves are prohibited.
4. FORMAT
JUDGING
Presentation
1. Each competitor, in numerical order, walks onstage and performs front and back turns, finishing facing the judges. Length of time allowed is 30 seconds.
2. Depending on the number of competitors in the class, each competitor may be directed to:
a. exit the stage until the entire class has performed the front and back turns at which time the entire class is called back onstage; or
b. line up along diagonal lines on the sides of the stage.
Comparisons
1. The Head Judge will call the competitors, in small groups and in numerical order, to center stage to perform the front and back turns.
2. In the call-outs, the Head Judge will direct specific competitors to perform the front and back turns. Judges will have the opportunity to compare competitors against each other in the front and back turns.
5. SCORING
The Presentation and Comparisons are scored 100%.
Muscularity and Body Condition
Judges will be looking for fit competitors who display proper shape and symmetry combined with muscularity and overall condition. This is not a bodybuilding contest so extreme muscularity should be marked down.
Stage Presence and Personality
Judges are looking for the competitor with the best stage presence and poise who can successfully convey his personality to the audience.
*If necessary, the judging panel, at its sole discretion, reserves the right to re-judge at the Finals using a Confirmation round.
WOMEN’S PHYSIQUE RULES
1. CLASSES
For all contests with 2 classes:
Class A | Up to and including 5’ 6” (168 cm) |
Class B | Over 5’ 6” (168 cm) |
For all contests with 3 classes:
Class A | Up to and including 5’ 4” (163 cm) |
Class B | Over 5’ 4” and up to and including 5’ 6” (168 cm) |
Class C | Over 5’ 6” (168 cm) |
For all contests with 4 classes:
Class A | Up to & including 5’ 2” (157 cm) |
Class B | Over 5’ 2” and up to and including 5’ 4” (163 cm) |
Class C | Over 5’ 4” and up to and including 5’ 6” (168 cm) |
Class D | Over 5’ 6” (168 cm) |
2. ATTIRE
1. Competitors compete in a two-piece bikini.
2. The bikini bottom must be v-shaped. Thongs are prohibited.
3. The bikini must meet acceptable standards of taste and decency.
4. Competitors can compete in an off-the-rack bikini.
5. The bikini does not have to be solid in color.
3. MUSIC
1. Posing music must be on a CD or USB stick.
2. Posing music must be the only music on the CD or USB stick.
3. Posing music must not contain vulgar lyrics. Competitors using music containing vulgar lyrics will be disqualified.
4. ONSTAGE
1. Prescription eyewear (except sunglasses) is permitted.
2. Competitor numbers must be worn on the left side of the bikini bottom at all times while onstage.
3. Competitors compete barefoot.
4. The “Moon Pose” is prohibited.
5. Lying on the stage is prohibited.
6. Gymnastic moves are prohibited.
5. FORMAT
JUDGING
Presentation
1. Each competitor, in numerical order, walks onstage and performs the mandatory poses as follows:
a. Front double biceps/open hands (no flat footed full front pose – some sort of front twisting pose)
b. Back double biceps/open hands
c. Side triceps with leg extended
d. Side chest with arms extended
e. Front abdominals and thighs
2. The competitor has up to 60 seconds to perform the mandatory poses. A 10-second warning will be given.
3. Depending on the number of competitors in the class, each competitor may be directed to:
a. exit the stage until the entire class has performed the mandatory poses at which time the entire class is called back onstage; or
b. line up along diagonal lines on the sides of the stage.
Comparisons
1. The Head Judge will call the competitors, in small groups and in numerical order, to center stage to perform the quarter turns and mandatory poses.
2. In the call-outs, the Head Judge will direct specific competitors to perform the quarter turns and mandatory poses. Judges will have the opportunity to compare competitors against each other.
FINALS
Routine
1. Competitors are called onstage individually in numerical order to perform a posing routine to music of the competitor’s choice.
2. The length of the posing routine is a maximum of 60 seconds.
3. Depending on the number of competitors, the promoter and Head Judge may decide that only the top finalists shall perform their posing routine.
Confirmation (if necessary*)
Competitors are called onstage and, under the direction of the Head Judge, are compared in groups while performing the quarter turns and mandatory poses.
*The judging panel, at its sole discretion, reserves the right to re-judge using a Confirmation round.
Posedown (overall title only)
The top finalists take part in a 60-second posedown.
6. SCORING
1. The Judging is scored 100%.
2. Ties are broken using the Relative Placement method.
Comments on Judging
The Women’s Physique division has been created to provide a platform for women who enjoy weight training, contest preparation and competing. Competitors should display a toned, athletic physique showcasing femininity, muscle tone, and the beauty and flow of the physique.
The following are examples of common terms used in the bodybuilding industry. These words can be helpful to assess what should not be descriptive of the physiques being judged in Women’s Physique – ripped, shredded, peeled, striated, dry, diced, hard, vascular, grainy, massive, thick, dense, etc.
All types of physiques will be considered when it comes to height, weight, structure, etc. Excessive muscularity should be scored down.
Women’s Physique competitors should have the overall aesthetics and look that is found in Figure with a little more overall muscularity.
MEN’S CLASSIC PHYSIQUE RULES
- CLASSES
CLASSES & HEIGHTS | CM | WEIGHT | KG |
Competition Breakdown for 2 Classes: | |||
DIVISION “A” (UP TO AND INCLUDING 5’ 9” [175.3 CM]) | |||
Up to and including 5’ 4” | 162.6 | Up to and Including 167 lbs | 75.7 |
Up to and including 5’ 5” | 165.1 | Up to and Including 172 lbs | 78.0 |
Up to and including 5’ 6” | 167.6 | Up to and Including 177 lbs | 80.3 |
Up to and including 5’ 7” | 170.2 | Up to and Including 182 lbs | 82.6 |
Up to and including 5’ 8” | 172.7 | Up to and Including 187 lbs | 84.8 |
Up to and including 5’ 9” | 175.3 | Up to and Including 194 lbs | 88.0 |
DIVISION “B” (OVER 5’ 9” [175.3 CM]) | |||
Up to and including 5’ 10” | 177.8 | Up to and Including 202 lbs | 91.6 |
Up to and including 5′ 11” | 180.3 | Up to and Including 209 lbs | 94.8 |
Up to and including 6’ 0” | 182.9 | Up to and Including 217 lbs | 98.4 |
Up to and including 6’ 1” | 185.4 | Up to and Including 224 lbs | 101.6 |
Up to and including 6’ 2” | 188.0 | Up to and Including 232 lbs | 105.2 |
Up to and including 6’ 3” | 190.5 | Up to and Including 239 lbs | 108.4 |
Up to and including 6’ 4” | 193.0 | Up to and Including 246 lbs | 111.6 |
Up to and including 6’ 5” | 195.6 | Up to and including 253 lbs | 114.8 |
Up to and including 6’ 6” | 198.1 | Up to and including 260 lbs | 117.9 |
Up to and including 6’ 7” | 200.7 | Up to and including 267 lbs | 121.1 |
Over 6’ 7” | 200.7 | Up to and including 274 lbs | 124.3 |
Competition Breakdown for 3 Classes: | |||
DIVISION “A” (UP TO AND INCLUDING 5’ 7” [170.2 CM]) | |||
Up to and including 5’ 4” | 162.6 | Up to and Including 167 lbs | 75.7 |
Up to and including 5’ 5” | 165.1 | Up to and Including 172 lbs | 78.0 |
Up to and including 5’ 6” | 167.6 | Up to and Including 177 lbs | 80.3 |
Up to and including 5’ 7” | 170.2 | Up to and Including 182 lbs | 82.6 |
DIVISION “B” (UP TO AND INCLUDING 5’ 10” [177.8 CM]) | |||
Up to and including 5’ 8” | 172.7 | Up to and Including 187 lbs | 84.8 |
Up to and including 5’ 9” | 175.3 | Up to and Including 194 lbs | 88.0 |
Up to and including 5’ 10” | 177.8 | Up to and Including 202 lbs | 91.6 |
DIVISION “C” (OVER 5’ 10” [177.8 CM]) | |||
Up to and including 5′ 11” | 180.3 | Up to and Including 209 lbs | 94.8 |
Up to and including 6’ 0” | 182.9 | Up to and Including 217 lbs | 98.4 |
Up to and including 6’ 1” | 185.4 | Up to and Including 224 lbs | 101.6 |
Up to and including 6’ 2” | 188.0 | Up to and Including 232 lbs | 105.2 |
Up to and including 6’ 3” | 190.5 | Up to and Including 239 lbs | 108.4 |
Up to and including 6’ 4” | 193.0 | Up to and Including 246 lbs | 111.6 |
Up to and including 6’ 5” | 195.6 | Up to and Including 253 lbs | 114.8 |
Up to and including 6’ 6” | 198.1 | Up to and Including 260 lbs | 117.9 |
Up to and including 6’ 7” | 200.7 | Up to and Including 267 lbs | 121.1 |
Over 6’ 7” | 200.7 | Up to and Including 274 lbs | 124.3 |
Competition Breakdown for 4 Classes: | |||
DIVISION “A” (UP TO AND INCLUDING 5’ 7” [170.2 CM]) | |||
Up to and including 5’ 4” | 162.6 | Up to and Including 167 lbs | 75.7 |
Up to and including 5’ 5” | 165.1 | Up to and Including 172 lbs | 78.0 |
Up to and including 5’ 6” | 167.6 | Up to and Including 177 lbs | 80.3 |
Up to and including 5’ 7” | 170.2 | Up to and Including 182 lbs | 82.6 |
DIVISION “B” (UP TO AND INCLUDING 5’ 10” [177.8 CM]) | |||
Up to and including 5’ 8” | 172.7 | Up to and Including 187 lbs | 84.8 |
Up to and including 5’ 9” | 175.3 | Up to and Including 194 lbs | 88.0 |
Up to and including 5’ 10” | 177.8 | Up to and Including 202 lbs | 91.6 |
DIVISION “C” (UP TO AND INCLUDING 6’ 0″ [182.9 CM]) | |||
Up to and including 5′ 11” | 180.3 | Up to and Including 209 lbs | 94.8 |
Up to and including 6’ 0” | 182.9 | Up to and Including 217 lbs | 98.4 |
DIVISION “D” (OVER 6’ 0″ [182.9 CM]) | |||
Up to and including 6’ 1” | 185.4 | Up to and Including 224 lbs | 101.6 |
Up to and including 6’ 2” | 188.0 | Up to and Including 232 lbs | 105.2 |
Up to and including 6’ 3” | 190.5 | Up to and Including 239 lbs | 108.4 |
Up to and including 6’ 4” | 193.0 | Up to and Including 246 lbs | 111.6 |
Up to and including 6’ 5” | 195.6 | Up to and Including 253 lbs | 114.8 |
Up to and including 6’ 6” | 198.1 | Up to and Including 260 lbs | 117.9 |
Up to and including 6’ 7” | 200.7 | Up to and Including 267 lbs | 121.1 |
Over 6’ 7” | 200.7 | Up to and Including 274 lbs | 124.3 |
2. ATTIRE
Competitors are required to wear posing shorts (see image below). Board shorts or bodybuilding posing trunks are prohibited. Competitors are required to wear the same type of cut and all shorts that are worn in competition must be black.
3. MUSIC
1. Posing music must be on a CD or USB stick.
2. Posing music must be the only music on the CD or USB stick.
3. Posing music must not contain vulgar lyrics. Competitors using music containing vulgar lyrics will be disqualified.
4. ONSTAGE
1. During the Judging, competitors shall not wear jewelry except for a wedding band.
2. Prescription eyewear (except sun glasses) is permitted.
3. The following is prohibited while onstage:
a. Props
b. Chewing gum
c. “Moon Pose” (any competitor performing this pose will be disqualified)
d. Lying on the stage.
e. Bumping and shoving (the first and second person involved will be disqualified)
4. Competitor numbers must be worn on the left side of the posing suit during the Judging and Finals.
5. FORMAT
JUDGING
Presentation
1. Each competitor proceeds to center-stage individually in numerical order and automatically performs the mandatory poses. No signal from the Head Judge is required.
2. Each competitor has a maximum of 60 seconds to perform the poses. A warning will be given when 10 seconds remain.
3. Competitors are not required to use the full 60 seconds.
4. The mandatory poses are:
a. Front Double Biceps
b. Side Chest
c. Back Double Biceps
d. Abdominals and Thighs
e. Favorite Classic Pose (no Most Muscular)
Comparisons
1. The Head Judge will call the competitors, in small groups and in numerical order, to center stage to perform the quarter turns and mandatory poses.
2. In the call-outs, the Head Judge will direct specific competitors to perform the quarter turns and mandatory poses. Judges will have the opportunity to compare competitors against each other.
*Judges will score competitors according to the “total package”, which is a balance of size, symmetry and muscularity.
FINALS
Routine
1. Competitors are called onstage individually in numerical order to perform a posing routine to music of the competitor’s choice.
2. The length of the posing routine is a maximum of 60 seconds.
3. Depending on the number of competitors, the promoter and Head Judge may decide that only the top finalists shall perform their posing routine.
Confirmation (if necessary*)
Competitors are called onstage and, under the direction of the Head Judge, are compared in groups while performing the mandatory poses.
*The judging panel, at its sole discretion, reserves the right to re-judge using a Confirmation round.
Posedown (overall title only)
The top finalists take part in a 60-second posedown.
6. SCORING
1. The Judging is scored 100%.
Ties are broken using the Relative Placement method.
WOMEN’S WELLNESS RULES
What is the Wellness Division?
This division is for females with athletic physique’s that showcase more body mass in the hips, glutes and thigh areas. The upper body is developed but not to the same degree as the lower body.
Height Classes
Two classes:
Class A – Up to and including 5’ 4” (163 cm)
Class B – Over 5’ 4” (163 cm)Three Classes:
Class A – Up to and including 5’ 4” (163 cm)
Class B – Over 5’ 4” (163 cm), up to including 5’ 6” (168 cm)
Class C – Over 5’ 6” (168 cm)Four Classes:
Class A – Up to and including 5’ 2” (157 cm)
Class B – Over 5’ 2”(157 cm), up to including 5’ 4” (163 cm)
Class C – Over 5’ 4” (163 cm), up to and including 5’ 6” (168 cm)
Class D – Over 5’ 6” (168 cm)Posing and Presentation
Front:
Competitors will face front with one hand on hip, one arm straight down and one leg slightly extended. We do not want to see the arm off to side with the elbow bent and the wrist bent upwards.
Quarter turn Right:
Competitors will turn slightly facing the judges with right hand on hip and left arm straight down and right leg bent at knee. More like a twisting side pose that Bikini competitors perform. We do not want to see the arm off to side with the elbow bent and the wrist bent upwards.
Quarter turn Rear:
Competitors will face the rear with lower back arched with glutes pushed back. We do not want to see the arm off to side with the elbow bent and the wrist bent upwards.
Quarter turn Right:
Competitors will turn slightly facing the judges with the left hand on the hip, right arm relaxed and left leg bent at knee. We do not want to see the arm off to side with the elbow bent and the wrist bent upwards.
Model Walk:
As it is currently performed in the Bikini Division. Listen to instructions from the Head Judge.
*As with All Other Divisions, No Lewd Acts Are Permitted and will result in automatic disqualification.
*We do not want to see the arm off to side with the elbow bent and the wrist bent upwards as seen below.
Frequently Asked Questions
-Level of conditioning?
We are looking for conditioning almost on par with Bikini athletes, but the athletes will have slightly more muscle. We want to see a little body fat with slight separation but no striations.
-Abs defined like Figure or less defined like Bikini?
As it currently is in Bikini.
-Shoulders? Rounded & Capped like Figure and Women’s Physique or less pronounced like Bikini?
Slightly more developed than Bikini and a little less than Figure, but not as lean and with no striations. Not like Women’s Physique.
-How much definition for quads?
The quads should display an athletic appearance with slight separation but no striations. Not as lean and defined as Figure and Women’s Physique.
-Glute Development?
Full round glutes with a slight separation between the hamstring and glute area but no striations, as is in place for the Bikini Division. Glutes will be bigger than current Bikini competitors. They will not be as lean and defined as Figure and Women’s Physique.
-Rules & Restrictions on suits?
Wellness Competition Suits have the same rules that are currently in place for all of our other divisions. Suits can be customized with “bling”. Competitors will compete in a two-piece suit. Unlike a Figure, Fitness or Women’s Physique competition suit, the top is not connected to the suit bottom.
The suit top is the same standard that is currently in place for the Bikini division.
The suit bottom must be V-shaped in the front and is traditionally all material with no connectors and sits high up on the hips. The cut of the suit back is the same standard that is currently in place for the Bikini division. No Thongs and No T-back suits allowed.
*You also have the Option to wear a Competition Bikini style bottom that has connectors. You will not be scored any differently if you choose to compete in this suit bottom.
All swimsuits must be in good taste. Athletes will be warned about improper suits and are advised to bring two (2) suits to check in. Athletes will be scored down if the suit is not up to standard.
*Note: The NPC, NPC Worldwide and IFBB Professional League Have Not Authorized or Granted the license, authority or exclusivity to any competition suit company or designer to be their Official Suit Maker and to advertise their suits as an Official Cut or Approved Cut. There has never been an Official or Approved “Pro Cut Bikini” for Any Division! That term was erroneously created by suit makers.
-Rules & Restrictions on shoes and heels?
Shoes and heels same rules that are currently in place for the Bikini division.
-Rules & Restrictions on jewelry?
Jewelry same rules that are currently in place for the Bikini and Figure divisions.
-Rules & Restrictions on posing oil or not?
No Posing Oil but can be “glazed” as is currently done for the Bikini and Figure divisions.