Part of Bodybuilding
Fitness and figure competitions are a category within bodybuilding where participants, both men and women, showcase their physiques in a highly competitive and judged environment. These competitions emphasize muscle definition, symmetry, and overall presentation. Participants are judged on criteria such as muscle tone, proportion, and overall aesthetics.
The competition typically involves specific poses that highlight different muscle groups, and participants are expected to display a combination of muscularity, leanness, and femininity (in the case of a female figure competition). The judging criteria can vary somewhat depending on the specific organization hosting the competition.
In addition to figure competitions, there are other categories in bodybuilding, such as bodybuilding, bikini, physique, and classic physique, each with its own set of criteria and guidelines. These events often require rigorous training, strict dieting, and dedication to achieve the desired physique for competition. There are a number of figure competition diets available.
Figure competitions are a popular aspect of the broader bodybuilding and fitness competition world. Here are some key points and details about figure competitions:
Judging Criteria
Muscle Definition
Participants are judged on the level of muscle definition and conditioning they have achieved. This includes visible muscle separation, striations, and overall muscle tone.
Symmetry
Judges look for balance and proportion between muscle groups. A symmetrical and aesthetically pleasing physique is highly valued.
Presentation
Competitors are evaluated on their stage presence, posing, and overall presentation. Confidence, grace, and the ability to showcase one’s physique effectively are important aspects.
Posing
Figure competitors perform a series of mandatory poses that emphasize different muscle groups. Posing routines are carefully choreographed to showcase the competitor’s physique from various angles.
Common poses include front and back double biceps, side chest, side triceps, and a variety of other poses that highlight muscle definition and symmetry.
Categories
Figure competitions typically have multiple height classes to ensure fair competition. Competitors are grouped based on their height to compete against others with similar body proportions. There are separate categories for men and women, each with its own set of criteria.
Attire
Competitors wear specific attire, usually a two-piece swimsuit for women and board shorts for men. The choice of attire is designed to showcase the physique while adhering to competition guidelines.
Training and Diet
Preparation for a figure competition involves rigorous training to build muscle and achieve the desired level of definition. Participants follow a strict figure competition meal plan, often involving precise macronutrient and calorie management to reduce body fat while preserving muscle mass.
Competition Organizations
Various organizations oversee figure competitions, each with its own rules and judging criteria. Prominent organizations include the International Federation of Bodybuilding & Fitness (IFBB) and the National Physique Committee (NPC), among others.
Bikini vs. Figure vs. Physique
Figure competitions are distinct from bikini and physique competitions. While figure emphasizes a balance between muscle definition and femininity, bikini competitions focus more on overall aesthetics and physique balance. Physique competitions, on the other hand, involve a higher degree of muscle mass and definition compared to figure.
Participating in figure competitions requires dedication, discipline, and a commitment to a demanding training and nutrition regimen. Competitors often spend months preparing for these events to showcase their hard work and dedication on stage.