Choosing the Right Category for Your First Fitness Competition

Lately I have been receiving many inquiries from individuals who are looking to get started on the road to their first fitness competition. This is great, I love helping people set new fitness goals! I have been frequently asked the question: “What is the difference between each category, and how do I choose?” With so many categories and organizations, it can be difficult to decide on a category that fits well with one’s body type and personality. It is best to seek the opinion and direction an experienced coach can provide, especially for your first competition. Each organization has different rules and guidelines, but here is a quick reference outlining the differences in female categories available in the World Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation (WBFF) organization. 

Bikini Model:

The bikini division is based on feminine curves, and overall physical tone. A bikini model is physically fit, without being too lean to show muscle separation and veins. A bikini diva displays confidence and beauty. Diva bikini models require a bikini round, and evening gown round. The bikini is two piece, figure flattering, in any color to compliment the individual. The bikini should be properly fitted to reveal and compliment the physique, while remaining classy and tasteful. (For example, no thongs permitted!). The evening gown round is potential to present your personality and individuality. The gown must be long, floor length. The theme is classy elegance. A gown with too much pattern is not advised. The diva bikini category is judged 40% Marketability, 40% physique, and 20% stage presence, confidence and poise. 

 Bridget Wadden: WBFF Pro Bikini Model

Fitness Model:

A fitness model displays a physically fit, lean frame. Criteria is judged by 40% overall marketability, 40% physique and 20% stage presence, confidence and poise. The “diva” fitness model lets her inner diva shine by bringing personality, and marketability to stage, during two rounds: bikini round, and theme wear round. The bikini is a two piece suit of choice, to compliment the athletes physique. The theme wear round should display creativity and class, complimenting the competitors’ physique in a way that is marketable. A classy Victoria’s secret style is preferred. Think glam and glitter. 

 Celia Hodder: WBFF Pro Fitness Model

Figure:

The figure class is judges primarily on physique. 60% of judging criteria is Physique: this includes overall body lines, a lean physique, and body symmetry. The other 40% is based of overall marketability, stage presence and poise. The figure division requires only a two piece figure suit. A figure suit is generally stoned with light reflecting crystals. The figure suit is different than a regular bikini. The back straps on the figure suit come down and fasten at the rear side of the bottoms, near the glutes. This enables the athlete to showcase a muscular back. The bottoms of the suit generally rises high on the hips, creating the illusion of length in the leg. Furthermore, the figure division is required to complete a series mandatory poses in quarter turns, to aid in the comparison of athletes.  

Karla Gillis: National Level Figure Competitor