The differences between bikini, figure, physique, and body building divisions.

For the past few days I have been thinking hard and long about my fitness goals. Do I want to participate in athletic competitions like power lifting OR do I want to compete in an aesthetic competition like bikini, figure, physique, etc.? So far, I have decided that I want to participate in an aesthetic competition but, here is what I realized … I honestly have no clue what the differences are between the different divisions! To help me help you here is the breakdown:

Bikini – Bikini competitors are judged on the following:

  • Balance and shape
  • Physical Appearance
  • Complexion and skin tone
  • Poise
  • Overall presentation

bikiniimage

(Ashley Kaltwasser)

Figure – Figure competitors are judged on the following:

  • Small degree of muscularity with separation (no visible striations)
  • Overall muscle tone with shapely lines
  • Overall firmness
  • Not excessively lean
  • Healthy appearance

figureimage

(Erin Stern shown above. This is the division I will be prepping for and competing in!)

Physique – Physique competitors are judged on the following:

  • Overall aesthetics and look that is found in figure
  • Muscularity
  • Shape
  • Proportion
  • Muscle Tone
  • Poise
  • Beauty flow

physiqueimage

(DLB or Dana Lynn Bailey)

Bodybuilding – Bodybuilding competitors are judged on the following:

  • Judged in weight categories
  • Presentation
  • Muscular development
  • Overall assessment of symmetry

bodybuildingimage

So there ya go!

Listed above are all of the differences between each division. Here is a side by side picture that will help show you the differences.

Bikini, Figure, Physique, Bodybuilding 2

I have always been under the impression that I have a body built for bikini. I think the posing is very feminine (which I like), the suits are sexy, and there isn’t a huge demand for overall muscularity. I also like the figure division and is what I will be competing in. The division does not focus on a large degree of muscularity (which I like) but they still have an ATHLETIC/FIT appearance.

Competitions take 100% dedication. They will test not only your physical strength but your mental strength as well. You have to be consistent with both diet and workout regimen. As of right now I feel like I have been training my mind for competitions. I meal prep and I have just recently started counting my macros (fats, carbs, and proteins) so I can get a feel for it when the day comes that I begin prepping for a show. Hey! You know what they say, “You never know until you try!”

M.

“I am too positive to be doubtful. Too optimistic to be fearful. And too determined to be defeated.”

– vandon
Sources

5 thoughts on “The differences between bikini, figure, physique, and body building divisions.”

  2. ohioathletic says:
    Reply

    I was wrong, I always get the women’s classes mixed. I have yet to see a women’s bodybuilding class on stage that’s why I was second guessing. But makes sense looking at dana and then looking at iris kyle lol I just thought they were the same division though lol.

    Anyways, good read, figure is a get one to compete in 🙂

    Good luck ttyl.

    Liked by 1 person

  3. entreprises luxe says:
    Reply

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