Bodybuilding

All Bodybuilding Categories Explained

Published

3 years ago

April 12, 2022

Zizou

Bodybuilding is quite broad, and few people understand the various categories therein. Doing something you will not regret later, especially concerning bodybuilding, is advisable. Sometimes also known as divisions, these categories are what professional bodybuilders compete in during contests. These things can easily overwhelm someone, especially if you're taking part in competitive bodybuilding for the first time. Please note that you can only specialize in a few bodybuilding categories available. However, before deciding on the perfect division that fits you, you must understand what each entails and everything else you need to know to perform well. You might not get someone to sit you down and take you through the various bodybuilding categories, at least not in the gym. Here are all the bodybuilding categories explained.

Bodybuilding

It is the most popular and muscular fitness division and comes in all bodybuilding categories explained. Additionally, it is broad, with many classes within it. Anyone can participate in this category as there is no limit on age and the number of weights one can lift. Most importantly, this category is all about weightlifting. The bodybuilding category is synonymous with the trunk posture, where the entire leg and glutes are the main areas to show. Your butt and other regions around it are the places to focus on, alongside the hands, legs, and posterior. It is a division reserved for people who are obsessed with building muscle. The bodybuilding category is the least favorite for women due to the need for big muscles to participate.

Men's Physique

A division created in 2013, men's physique is a relatively new bodybuilding category but is gaining popularity. It also differs from other bodybuilding categories in that the judges focus on the general body structure rather than masculinity. Although it is not a bodybuilding competition, you must excel to boost your chances of excelling in competitive divisions. Additionally, new bodybuilders need an appealing body structure and ratio to maintain a lasting presence in the field. The things judges often look for include an impressive shoulder-to-waist ratio. A good symmetry will go a long way in ensuring the bodybuilder gains muscle uniformly once they start training for contests. And just like the bodybuilding division, men's physique has several classes, including:

Bantamweight (up to 143.25lbs)
Lightweight (143.25 – 154.25lbs)
Middleweight (154.25 – 176.25lbs)
Light Heavyweight (176.25 – 198.25lbs)
Heavyweight (198.25 – 225.25lbs)
Superheavyweight (over 225.25lbs)

This division has its own rules, unique from all bodybuilding categories explained here. For instance, participants should wear shorts when competing. The short has to be knee-length, and little emphasis is given to the development beneath. It means bodybuilders not doing well in thigh development will most likely succeed if they have a good structure from the shoulders to the waist. Most importantly, for participants who wish to participate in this division, their body fat must be less than 5%. It would be best to eliminate excess fat before tossing yourself on stage for this division. Those looking to specialize in this division must also learn the correct poses. For instance, they should start with a front position, followed by three-quarter turns. It is relatively different from the posing routine found in other bodybuilding categories.

Wellness

Wellness is a female category focusing more on fitness and wellness than muscle building. Unlike men's physique, this division involves developing the lower body (thighs, hips, and glutes) and putting less emphasis on the upper body. However, one should consider working more on the upper body to create an appealing symmetry. Ultimately, the goal of this division is to highlight and appreciate the beauty of the female body in the areas mentioned. The following classes are under this division:
Lightweight (up to 115lbs)

Middleweight (115 – 125lbs)

Light Heavyweight (125 – 140lbs)

Heavyweight (over 140 lbs)

212 Olympia

Created in 2011, this bodybuilding division is for short men who find it hard to fit into other divisions. Short men do not develop as much muscle as tall men do. This anatomical factor prevents them from competing favorably in divisions where huge muscle mass matters. Therefore, the division is only available for 212 lbs and below bodybuilders. Additionally, they must have a height of 5'5 or lower. With only tiny underwear, participants can use all seven bodybuilding poses where judges check the muscles' mass, separations, and conditioning. Flex Felix is among the notable bodybuilders who have excelled in this division.

Classic Physique

Men's classic physique is one of the bodybuilding divisions where both symmetry and muscle mass matter. Participants in this division wear tiny shorts that draw attention to deep lines in the glutes, hamstrings, and quads. Most importantly, conditioning is greatly improved, alongside mandatory postures and quarter-turns. The form-fitting shorts also draw attention to the trunks. You will come across the following classes in this division:

Height (cm) Weight (kg)

168 and below Height – 100 +4
171 and below Height – 100 +6
175 and below Height – 100+8
180 and below Height – 100+11
Over and including 180 Height – 100+13
More than and including 190 Height -100+15
Over and including 198 Height – 100+17

Bodybuilders in this division show the entire body, including the right, left, front, and back sides. While at it, judges will check for symmetry and balance. They are also required to perform the mandatory postures and other routines at the end of the day.

Bikini

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It is the most popular women's division and rarely misses out on main bodybuilding competitions. The division doesn't require too much muscle, thus making it a favorite for women and newbies. Among all the bodybuilding categories explained, this one is attractive to women with a tiny waist, curvy body, and long, shapely legs. Most importantly, the judges are particularly interested in the participant's overall body structure, balance, and charisma. You will unlikely miss out on this division as it has few requirements. The only challenge would be huge competition from other participants. It is important to note that this division is for women in competitions.

Fitness

The fitness division focuses on strength and is a favorite of cheerleaders, gymnasts, and other fitness enthusiasts. Participants in this category usually have a killer body with good symmetry. It is not surprising that women are the majority in this division. You don't need a lot of muscle to excel in this division because its routine does not involve showing muscles. All you need is strength, moves or dances, and some charisma. Such movements or dances could come with good music in the background, and you could choose one for yourself. Additionally, this division slightly differs from traditional bodybuilding divisions that entirely focus on the physique. So, considering if you want more than muscle and body structure is the most appropriate division.

Women's Physique

It is an umbrella division for all female bodybuilding classes and categories. Generally, women in this division ought to be lean, muscular, and with good symmetry. Just like in the case of wellness, the emphasis is on developing the lower body more than the upper. However, judges will look for shape and body proportion, so you might want to work on the upper part. Other aspects such as marketability, muscle tone, confidence, and presence are considerations in picking a winner. Participants must carefully balance all these things to increase their chances of doing well overall. Concerning the dressing, they put on two-piece suits with a V-shaped bottom. Posing involves quarter-turns and other routines found in traditional bodybuilding.

Games Classic Bodybuilding

Another division for men who cannot compete favorably in regular categories, this particular one is for men with relatively small muscle mass. Therefore, more emphasis is on the participant's overall structure. Some things that will matter here include; symmetry and overall physique. The fact that there is limited muscle mass means the judges will look at other factors such as confidence, conditioning, stage presence, and marketability.

Mixed Pairs

Here, a man and a woman compete in the same male or female category. For instance, a female can compete with a male partner in the men's category and vice versa. Apart from the mixed pairs, everything else about this category is similar to traditional male divisions where judges look at symmetry, skin tone, confidence, the poses, among others. The judges also look at how the pair complement each other and deliver their verdict based on how well they match. Therefore, the kind of partner you choose determines how you will perform.

Overall

With so many divisions and classes from which participants can choose, bodybuilding is enough cake for everyone that throws their hat in the ring. However, bodybuilders and other fitness enthusiasts must pick a division that works for them because everybody has a unique body. Most importantly, choose a good one among all the bodybuilding categories explained here that does not put too much pressure on you in the long term. But you can always try several divisions to determine which one you best excel in. Otherwise, we hope you find where your heart is and be the best. Remember to go through our blog for more informative articles on fitness.

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Zizou

Building muscle mass is what I like to talk about. If your aim is to build a solid body, then my posts would be very beneficial to you. I always want to know your opinion, so don't hesitate to drop a line below or contact me.

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Bodybuilding

Mastering Bodybuilding in 2025: Top Fitness Tips for Success

Published

1 week ago

March 1, 2025

Sane

Bodybuilding is more than just a sport; it's a lifestyle that requires dedication, discipline, and a thorough understanding of fitness principles. As the world of fitness continues to evolve, bodybuilders must stay updated with the latest trends, techniques, and scientific advancements to achieve their goals. In 2025, several innovative approaches are redefining bodybuilding. Here are essential fitness tips for bodybuilders to excel this year.

Embrace Technology-Driven Workouts

In 2025, technology plays a significant role in bodybuilding. Wearable devices, fitness apps, and virtual reality (VR) training are now integral components of an effective workout regimen.

Wearable Devices

Modern wearables track everything from heart rate and sleep patterns to muscle activation and caloric expenditure. Utilize these devices to monitor your progress and make data-driven adjustments to your training and nutrition plans.

Fitness Apps

Leverage fitness apps for customized workout plans, progress tracking, and virtual coaching. Many apps now incorporate artificial intelligence to provide personalized feedback and recommendations.

Virtual Reality Training

VR technology offers immersive workout experiences, allowing bodybuilders to simulate different training environments and scenarios. This can enhance motivation and add variety to your routine.

Focus on Functional Strength

While hypertrophy (muscle growth) remains a primary goal, functional strength is gaining importance. Functional strength training improves overall performance, reduces the risk of injury, and enhances daily activities.

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Compound Movements

Incorporate compound exercises like squats, deadlifts, and bench presses. These movements engage multiple muscle groups and joints, promoting balanced strength development.

Core Stability

Prioritize exercises that strengthen the core, such as planks, Russian twists, and leg raises. A strong core supports better lifting mechanics and reduces the risk of lower back injuries.

Optimize Nutrition for Muscle Growth and Recovery

Nutrition is the cornerstone of successful bodybuilding. In 2025, the focus is on personalized nutrition plans tailored to individual needs and goals.

Protein Intake

Ensure adequate protein intake to support muscle repair and growth. Aim for 1.6 to 2.2 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight per day, depending on your training intensity and goals.

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Nutrient Timing

Pay attention to nutrient timing to maximize muscle recovery and growth. Consume protein and carbohydrates within 30 minutes post-workout to replenish glycogen stores and kickstart muscle repair.

Supplements

Utilize supplements wisely. Creatine, branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs), and omega-3 fatty acids are popular choices for enhancing performance and recovery.

Prioritize Mental Health and Mindfulness

Mental health is increasingly recognized as a critical component of overall fitness. Incorporating mindfulness practices can improve focus, reduce stress, and enhance performance.

Meditation

Incorporate meditation into your daily routine to reduce stress and improve mental clarity. Mindfulness meditation can enhance your mind-muscle connection during workouts.

Visualization

Use visualization techniques to mentally rehearse your workouts. Visualizing successful lifts and achieving your goals can boost confidence and motivation.

Rest and Recovery

Prioritize rest and recovery to prevent burnout and overtraining. Ensure you get 7-9 hours of sleep per night and incorporate rest days into your training schedule.

Leverage Advanced Training Techniques

Advanced training techniques can help break through plateaus and stimulate muscle growth. In 2025, several methods are gaining popularity among bodybuilders.

Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) Training: BFR involves restricting blood flow to the muscles during low-intensity exercises. This technique can enhance muscle growth and strength without the need for heavy weights.

Eccentric Training: Focus on the eccentric (lowering) phase of exercises. Eccentric training can stimulate greater muscle damage and growth compared to traditional concentric movements.

Periodization: Implement periodization into your training plan. Varying the intensity, volume, and type of exercises can prevent plateaus and ensure continuous progress.

Incorporate Recovery and Mobility Work

Recovery and mobility are essential for preventing injuries and maintaining optimal performance. In 2025, bodybuilders are paying more attention to these aspects of training.

Foam Rolling and Myofascial Release: Use foam rollers and massage balls to release muscle tightness and improve flexibility. Regular myofascial release can reduce soreness and enhance recovery.

Stretching: Incorporate dynamic stretching before workouts and static stretching after workouts. Stretching improves range of motion and prevents muscle imbalances.

Cryotherapy and Hydrotherapy: Explore recovery techniques like cryotherapy (cold therapy) and hydrotherapy (water therapy) to reduce inflammation and accelerate muscle recovery.

Engage in Continuous Learning and Community Building

The fitness industry is constantly evolving, and staying informed is crucial for success. Engage in continuous learning and connect with the bodybuilding community for support and motivation.

Educational Resources: Read books, watch videos, and attend seminars to stay updated on the latest research and trends in bodybuilding.

Community Engagement: Join online forums, social media groups, and local bodybuilding clubs. Sharing experiences and knowledge with fellow bodybuilders can provide valuable insights and encouragement.

Professional Guidance: Consider working with a certified personal trainer or coach. Professional guidance can help you optimize your training and nutrition plans, ensuring you're on the right track.

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Conclusion

In 2025, bodybuilding is more than just lifting weights; it's a holistic approach to fitness that encompasses technology, nutrition, mental health, and advanced training techniques. By embracing these fitness tips, bodybuilders can achieve their goals, stay injury-free, and enjoy a fulfilling fitness journey. Remember, consistency and dedication are key to success in bodybuilding. Stay committed, keep learning, and most importantly, have fun on your path to becoming the best version of yourself.

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Bodybuilding

2nd Edition of Natural Bodybuilding Competition Facts

Published

6 months ago

September 5, 2024

Zizou

Natural bodybuilding competitions are designed to promote and celebrate athletes who build their physiques without the use of performance-enhancing drugs. These events emphasize fair play, health, and the natural development of muscle mass and definition.

The second edition of natural bodybuilding competitions has gained momentum globally, particularly focusing on drug-free athletes. These competitions are hosted by various organizations like the INBA/PNBA (International Natural Bodybuilding Association/Professional Natural Bodybuilding Association) and OCB (Organization of Competitive Bodybuilders).

In 2024, several notable events have been planned, including the INBA Natural Universe and INBA World Cup, both of which emphasize natural bodybuilding through rigorous drug testing policies. These events aim to showcase competitors who adhere to strict drug-free protocols, and winners often earn pro cards allowing them to compete in higher-level professional competitions.

These competitions focus on categories like men's bodybuilding, classic physique, and women's figure and bikini, among others. Athletes undergo polygraph and urine tests to ensure compliance with natural bodybuilding standards. The winners often receive medals, trophies, or pro status

Drug Testing

Participants undergo rigorous drug testing to ensure they are not using banned substances. This can include urine tests, polygraph tests, and other methods to maintain the integrity of the competition.

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Judging Criteria

Athletes are judged based on several factors, including:

Muscle Mass: The size and volume of muscles.
Symmetry: The balance and proportion of the physique.
Conditioning: The level of muscle definition and leanness.
Presentation: Posing routines and overall stage presence.

Preparation

Competitors often spend months preparing for these events, focusing on strict diet plans, intense workout regimens, and posing practice. The goal is to achieve peak physical condition on the day of the competition.

Community and Support

Natural bodybuilding competitions foster a sense of community among athletes who share a commitment to health and fitness. Many competitors form lasting friendships and support networks through these events.

Starting training for a natural bodybuilding competition is an exciting journey! Here are some key steps to help you get started:

1. Set Clear Goals

Define what you want to achieve. Are you aiming to compete in a specific category like Men’s Physique or Women’s Figure? Setting clear goals will guide your training and nutrition plans.

2. Create a Training Plan

Focus on a well-rounded training program that includes:

Compound Movements: Exercises like squats, deadlifts, bench presses, and pull-ups are essential for building overall muscle mass.
Isolation Exercises: Target specific muscles to enhance definition and symmetry.
Progressive Overload: Gradually increase the weight or reps to continuously challenge your muscles.

3. Follow a Structured Diet

Nutrition is crucial for muscle growth and fat loss:

Caloric Intake: Calculate your daily caloric needs based on your goals (bulking or cutting).
Macronutrients: Balance your intake of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. Aim for high protein to support muscle repair and growth.
Micronutrients: Ensure you’re getting enough vitamins and minerals to support overall health.

4. Incorporate Cardio

Cardio helps with fat loss and improves cardiovascular health. Include both steady-state and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) sessions in your routine.

5. Practice Posing

Posing is a critical aspect of bodybuilding competitions. Practice regularly to perfect your form and presentation on stage.

6. Rest and Recovery

Allow your body to recover with adequate sleep and rest days. Overtraining can lead to injuries and hinder progress.

7. Stay Consistent and Patient

Building a competition-ready physique takes time and dedication. Stay consistent with your training and diet, and be patient with your progress.

8. Seek Professional Guidance

Consider working with a coach or trainer who specializes in natural bodybuilding. They can provide personalized advice and help you stay on track.

9. Join a Community

Engage with other natural bodybuilders for support and motivation. Online forums, social media groups, and local gyms can be great places to connect.

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Qualifications

The qualifications for natural bodybuilding competitions vary slightly between organizations but generally follow these principles:

Drug-Free Status: Athletes must demonstrate they have been drug-free for a specific period, typically between 5 to 10 years. They are required to pass a drug test, usually through urine samples or polygraph tests, to prove they haven't used banned substances like steroids, hormones, or other performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs).

Membership Requirements: Competitors often need to be members of the organizing federation. For example, in the World Natural Bodybuilding Federation (WNBF), athletes must have a valid WNBF membership to compete.

Amateur and Pro Divisions: Most competitions have both amateur and professional divisions. To qualify for a pro division, an athlete must first win an amateur event or obtain a “pro card” by performing exceptionally in a recognized event.

Age and Gender Categories: Athletes are categorized by age and gender. Categories typically include juniors (under 23), open divisions, masters (over 40), and grandmasters (over 50).

Entry and Registration: Competitors must pay an entry fee and complete registration. For certain competitions, a pre-qualification based on past performance may be required.

Distinction Between Natural and Steroid-Based Bodybuilding

The main differences between natural and steroid-based bodybuilding revolve around the methods used to build muscle and the resulting impacts on the body. Here are some key distinctions:

Natural Bodybuilding

Muscle Growth: Achieved through consistent weight training, proper nutrition, and adequate rest. Muscle growth is gradual and sustainable.
Health: Generally safer with fewer side effects. Promotes overall health, including better cardiovascular health, improved metabolism, and increased bone density.
Appearance: Natural bodybuilders tend to have a more balanced and proportionate physique. Muscle definition is less extreme compared to steroid users.
Recovery: Recovery times are longer, requiring more rest between intense workouts.
Competitions: Natural bodybuilding competitions often have strict drug-testing policies to ensure participants are not using performance-enhancing drugs.

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Steroid-Based Bodybuilding

Muscle Growth: Steroids significantly accelerate muscle growth and strength gains. Results are more dramatic and achieved in a shorter time.
Health Risks: Steroid use can lead to serious health issues, including liver damage, cardiovascular problems, hormonal imbalances, and psychological effects like mood swings.
Appearance: Steroid users often have a more “enhanced” look with larger muscle mass, visible veins, and extreme muscle definition, even in the off-season.
Recovery: Faster recovery times due to the anti-inflammatory effects of steroids, allowing for more frequent and intense training sessions.
Side Effects: Visible side effects can include acne, hair loss, gynecomastia (development of breast tissue in men), and changes in secondary sexual characteristics.

Choosing Between the Two

Natural Bodybuilding: Ideal for those who prioritize long-term health, sustainable muscle growth, and a balanced lifestyle.
Steroid-Based Bodybuilding: Often chosen by those seeking rapid and extreme muscle gains, but it comes with significant health risks and ethical considerations.

Take Away

The main advantage of participating in natural bodybuilding events is the emphasis on health and sustainability. Natural bodybuilding promotes muscle growth through consistent training, proper nutrition, and adequate rest, leading to gradual and sustainable results. This approach minimizes health risks associated with performance-enhancing drugs, such as liver damage and cardiovascular issues. Additionally, natural bodybuilding fosters a balanced and proportionate physique, and the strict drug-testing policies in competitions ensure a fair and level playing field for all participants. This focus on overall well-being and ethical competition makes natural bodybuilding a healthier and more sustainable choice.

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