MEN'S CLASSIC PHYSIQUE

1. CLASSES AVAILABLE IN SOUTH AFRICA

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

• Posing music must be on a USB stick.
• Posing music must be the only music on the USB stick.
• Posing music must not contain vulgar lyrics. Competitors using music containing vulgar lyrics will be disqualified.

4. ONSTAGE

• During the Judging, competitors shall not wear jewellery except for a wedding band.
• Prescription eyewear (except sun glasses) is permitted.
• 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)
• 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%.
2. Ties are broken using the Relative Placement method.

MEN'S PHYSIQUE

1. CLASSES AVAILABLE IN SOUTH AFRICA

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.

WHEELCHAIR DIVISION RULES AND ELIGIBILITY

1. Primary Wheelchair Use Requirement:
   Athletes must primarily use a wheelchair for at least 99% of their daily mobility needs. This means that their primary mode of movement and transportation should be the wheelchair. Athletes relying on crutches, canes or prosthetics for daily mobility are not eligible to compete in the wheelchair division. This strict adherence to wheelchair use ensures that athletes truly live the lifestyle of someone dependent on a wheelchair.
   
   
2. Valid Mobility Impairments:
   The wheelchair division is open to athletes with a range of mobility impairments, including but not limited to paraplegia, quadriplegia, muscular dystrophy, post-polio syndrome, spina bifida, cerebral palsy, multiple sclerosis, and amputations. A comprehensive list of eligible conditions will be maintained by the NPC and IFBB Professional League, subject to periodic updates.
   
   
3. Verified Disability Impact:
   Athletes participating in the wheelchair division must possess a verified physical disability that directly affects their mobility. This disability impact must be documented by appropriate medical professionals, ensuring that only those genuinely in need of wheelchair assistance are allowed to compete.
   
   
4. “Grandfathered” Wheelchair Athletes:
   Athletes in the wheelchair division who have previously undergone a comprehensive assessment by both Nick Scott and the NPC & IFBB Professional League, and have received approval and sanctioning from the NPC and IFBB Professional League, are accorded the status of “grandfathered in.” These seasoned athletes are granted permission to compete in the wheelchair division without the need for reevaluation, a testament to their unwavering dedication and steadfast adherence to the established regulations.
   
   
5. Ongoing Evaluation and Approval:
   Nick Scott, serving as the official NPC and IFBB Professional League Representative for the Wheelchair Division, or in the role of an authorized NPC and/or IFBB Professional League Representative, will consistently evaluate the eligibility of participating athletes. Athletes whose eligibility comes under scrutiny during Wheelchair Pro Qualifiers will undergo a review process overseen by Nick Scott. Ultimately, the NPC and IFBB Professional League hold the responsibility for making the final determination of division eligibility, thereby guaranteeing transparency and equitable assessment.
   
   
6. Lifestyle Consistency:
   Athletes competing in the wheelchair division are expected to maintain a lifestyle consistent with their mobility needs. This includes using the wheelchair for daily activities, transportation, and public appearances related to their participation in the sport. Athletes found to be deviating from this lifestyle commitment may face penalties, including disqualification from competitions.
   
   
7. Random Spot Checks:
   To ensure compliance with the wheelchair usage requirement, random spot checks may be conducted by officials before, during, or after competitions. Athletes must be prepared to demonstrate their mobility dependence on the wheelchair during these spot checks, further emphasizing the importance of consistent adherence. These spot checks may include examinations of the wheelchair’s components, such as cushioning, upholstery, and specific wear and tear patterns resulting from training. Inspections might focus on areas such as the rims, sides of the chair, and footrests, verifying that the equipment reflects the genuine use of the wheelchair in training and daily activities.
   
   
8. Documentation and Medical Records:
   If requested, athletes must provide valid medical documentation that supports their eligibility for the wheelchair division. This documentation should include medical records, diagnosis, and other relevant information. Failure to provide accurate and up-to-date documentation may result in disqualification.
   
   
9. Wheelchair Upholstery and Spoke Guards:
   The upholstery on the back of the wheelchair must not feature any form of “commercial advertising and/or endorsement” and should be fabricated from a “solid, non-distracting color.” Similarly, the spoke guards attached to the wheelchair must not display any “commercial advertising and/or endorsement.” Athletes who have previously employed Wheelchair Upholstery and Spoke Guards that have been approved by the NPC and IFBB Professional League will be granted grandfathered status, enabling them to continue competing under the previously sanctioned equipment.
   
   
10. Pants and Shoes:
    Athletes are required to wear solid black pants as part of their attire. However, if an athlete has a medical condition that prevents them from wearing black pants, they are permitted to wear solid black shorts as an alternative. Regardless of their choice, the color must remain a consistent and non-distracting black tone, and the pants must not display any form of “commercial advertising and/or endorsement.”

While it is recommended for athletes to wear shoes, they also have the option to choose not to wear them. Athletes are encouraged to keep their feet and shoes within the confines of their wheelchairs whenever possible.

By implementing these comprehensive rules and guidelines, the Wheelchair Division ensures fair competition and upholds the integrity of the category by emphasizing the genuine use of wheelchairs and the shared experiences of athletes with mobility impairments.

WOMEN'S BIKINI

1. CLASSES AVAILABLE IN SOUTH AFRICA

If you are interested in competing please watch this video first.

NPC AND IFBB PRO LEAGUE CRITERIA FOR JUDGING WOMEN’S BIKINI COMPETITORS

Criteria for Judging Female Physiques:

1. Muscularity – the amount of muscle will vary between the divisions
2. Condition- will vary depending on the division
3. Symmetry and Balance

Bikini athletes should display:

1. A foundation of muscle which gives shape to the female body
2. Full round glutes with a slight separation between the hamstring and glute area
3. Small amount of roundness in the delts
4. Conditioned Core
5. Overall look- hair, makeup, suit, and tan

Bikini athletes should NOT display:

1. Muscular density seen in a figure physique
2. Squared glutes
3. Muscle separation seen in figure competitors
4. Graininess
5. Striations anywhere

NPC, NPC WORLDWIDE & IFBB PROFESSIONAL LEAGUE
UPDATED BIKINI RULES, MARCH 2020
BIKINI COMPETITOR RULES

PRESENTATION

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.

Judges will be scoring competitors using the following criteria:

1. Balance and Shape
2. 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

1. 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.
2. 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.

WOMEN'S BODYBUILDING

1. CLASSES AVAILABLE IN SOUTH AFRICA

One Open Class Available in South Africa.

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 USB stick.
2. Posing music must be the only music on the 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

1. CLASSES AVAILABLE IN SOUTH AFRICA

One Open Class Available in South Africa.

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. Posing music must be on a USB stick.
2. Posing music must be the only music on the USB stick.
3. Posing 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

1. CLASSES AVAILABLE IN SOUTH AFRICA

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.

1. CLASSES AVAILABLE IN SOUTH AFRICA

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 USB stick.
2. Posing music must be the only music on the 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.

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.

1. CLASSES AVAILABLE IN SOUTH AFRICA

• 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.