Did you know there are different types of bodybuilding? Bodybuilding is more than just lifting weights; it’s an art form that comes in various styles and categories. Whether you’re a beginner looking to explore this fascinating world or an advanced competitor seeking to diversify your training, understanding the different types of bodybuilding can significantly enhance your fitness journey and wardrobe choices.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll delve into the six main types of bodybuilding, discuss the rise of natural bodybuilding, and even touch on how the right clothing can make all the difference.
What Are the Different Types of Bodybuilding?
Here are some of the different types of bodybuilding.
Classic Physique
Classic Physique Bodybuilding is a division in the sport of bodybuilding that aims to bring the aesthetic and balanced physiques reminiscent of legends like Frank Zane, Steve Reeves, and Arnold Schwarzenegger.
Unlike the Open Bodybuilding category, which often prioritizes size and mass, Classic Physique focuses on overall harmony, proportion, and muscle symmetry. Competitors are assessed based on their muscle definition, symmetry, and stage presence with attention given to a narrow waistline, broad shoulders, and V-taper.
The specific regulations for Classic Physique may vary depending on the organization involved. Generally adhering to specific weight and height limits to maintain a more “classic” appearance. For instance, in the IFBB Pro League, a competitor standing at 5’7″ cannot exceed 177 pounds in weight.
Posing attire is also more modest in Classic Physique competitions compared to the posing briefs commonly seen in Open Bodybuilding; instead, resembling swim shorts. Posing routines within Classic Physique often include poses such as the vacuum pose and mantis pose, which highlight the competitor’s ability to present a well-balanced and artistically pleasing physique. This category has gained popularity as it promotes an ideal that’s both achievable and visually appealing, attracting competitors as well as fans who hold appreciation for bodybuilding’s golden era.
Men’s Physique
Men’s Physique is a division of bodybuilding that focuses on achieving a well-proportioned and aesthetic physique. Unlike the extreme muscle size and definition seen in traditional bodybuilding categories, Men’s Physique aims for a more attainable “beach body” look that appeals to a wider audience.
In terms of rules and regulations, competitors in Men’s Physique wear board shorts instead of the usual posing trunks. The emphasis is mainly on the upper body, particularly the abs, chest, shoulders, and arms.
Unlike bodybuilding categories, leg development is not as emphasized in Men’s Physique competitions. Additionally, competitors do not perform the range of poses as in traditional bodybuilding; there are no mandatory poses like “Most Muscular” or “Side Chest.”
Judging criteria for Men’s Physique include muscle tone, symmetry, and overall stage presence. Competitors are expected to have a fit appearance with good posture and confidence. Unlike Classic Physique or Open Bodybuilding divisions, where weight classes or height-to-weight ratios may apply to competitors, eligibility requirements in Men’s Physique competitions generally do not have restrictions—although certain organizations may have height classes.
The Men’s Physique category provides a route for individuals interested in bodybuilding but may not be aiming for the same level of significant muscle mass or definition required in other divisions. It offers an inclusive opportunity to enter the sport, appealing to a wide range of participants and enthusiasts.
Women’s Physique
The Women’s Physique category in bodybuilding serves as a link between the muscular look of Women’s Bodybuilding and the softer, more feminine appearance of Figure and Bikini divisions.
Competitors in Women’s Physique are evaluated on factors such as muscle symmetry, size, and overall presentation including stage presence and posing. However, unlike Women’s Bodybuilding, the focus is not on extreme muscle size but rather on achieving a well-proportioned and balanced physique. Posing routines play a role in this competition, with athletes showcasing their muscle definition and symmetry through mandatory poses.
In terms of attire, Women’s Physique competitors typically wear a two-piece posing suit without heels during the competition. This differs from the Figure and Bikini divisions, where heels are part of the outfit.
Women’s Physique offers athletes an opportunity to achieve a muscular appearance without going for an overly bulky look, striking a balance that appeals to many competitors. It gives women the chance to participate in a category that values both muscle definition and size while also prioritizing aesthetics and overall balance. This sets it apart from other divisions in female bodybuilding.
Bodybuilding (Open Bodybuilding)
In the context of competition, the term “bodybuilding” usually refers to the Open Bodybuilding category, which is the most traditional and perhaps the most iconic form of the sport. Unlike other divisions like Men’s Physique, Classic Physique, or Women’s Physique, Open Bodybuilding places the greatest emphasis on muscle mass, size, and extreme conditioning. The goal is to develop a physique that showcases not just symmetry and proportion but also sheer muscularity and definition.
Regulations in Open Bodybuilding are generally less restrictive compared to other categories. There are no height-to-weight ratio limits, allowing competitors to pack on as much muscle as possible. Competitors wear posing trunks and are judged in a series of mandatory poses that include the front double biceps, back double biceps, side chest, and most muscular, among others. These poses are designed to display the athlete’s muscle mass, definition, symmetry, and stage presence to the fullest extent.
What sets Open Bodybuilding apart from other divisions is the unbridled pursuit of muscle mass combined with extreme leanness. While other categories focus on aesthetics, balance, and a more ‘natural’ look, Open Bodybuilding is about pushing the human physique to its absolute limits in terms of size and conditioning. This division often attracts athletes who are willing to dedicate themselves entirely to the pursuit of a hyper-muscular physique, making it the epitome of the bodybuilding sport for many fans and competitors alike.
Fitness
The Fitness category in bodybuilding competitions is quite unique as it combines athleticism, performance, and physique. Unlike bodybuilding or other divisions like Men’s Physique and Women’s Physique, the Fitness division demands competitors to showcase their skills in dance, gymnastics, and strength moves. It’s not just about their looks but also about their agility, flexibility, and overall athleticism.
Regulations for the Fitness category may vary among organizations but usually involve two rounds of judging: a physique round and a performance round. In the physique round, competitors are evaluated based on muscle tone, symmetry, and overall appearance – similar to other bodybuilding categories. However, what truly sets this category apart is the performance round. Here, competitors perform a routine that typically lasts around two minutes with music of their choice. These routines are often well-choreographed and may include impressive flips, splits, and other acrobatic moves.
In terms of attire for the Fitness division, competitors typically wear a two-piece suit for the physique round and themed costumes for the performance round. Unlike bodybuilding categories where size or extreme leanness takes center stage, this division focuses more on achieving a balanced athletic physique combined with excellent performance skills.
The Fitness division presents a unique approach to competitive sports, attracting athletes who are dedicated not only to attaining a visually appealing physique but also possess talents in performing arts and athletics. It offers a combination of artistic expression and physical prowess, setting it apart from other categories within bodybuilding.
Figure
The Figure division in bodybuilding competitions is tailored specifically for women. It aims to showcase a symmetrical physique highlighting broad shoulders, a slim waist, and well-defined legs. Unlike Women’s Bodybuilding that seeks extreme muscularity or the Fitness category that focuses on performance, Figure pursues a more streamlined yet still muscular appearance.
When it comes to the rules, judges evaluate competitors from all angles through quarter turns. They assess symmetry, presentation, and muscle tone. Athletes wear a two-piece suit and heels as part of their attire, setting Figure apart from bodybuilding categories where heels are not worn. Unlike bodybuilding, there are no mandatory poses or performance routines like in the Fitness category.
The judging criteria consider balance and shape, muscle tone, and stage presence. While muscle size is taken into account, it is not as heavily emphasized as in Women’s Bodybuilding. The main focus lies in how the muscles flow together to create an aesthetically pleasing and proportionate physique.
The Figure category provides a platform for female athletes who strive for a highly conditioned body without the extreme muscle size associated with traditional bodybuilding. Competitors are drawn to it because it allows them to demonstrate their dedication and effort in a way that highlights not only physical strength but also grace, attractiveness, and harmony. This sets it apart from other categories in bodybuilding and physique competitions.
Open vs Classic Bodybuilding
There are two divisions in the sport of bodybuilding: Open Bodybuilding and Classic Physique. Each division has its own criteria and goals when it comes to aesthetics. Open Bodybuilding focuses on maximizing muscle mass, extreme conditioning, and leanness. On the other hand, Classic Physique aims to revive the aesthetic and well-proportioned physiques reminiscent of legendary bodybuilders like Arnold Schwarzenegger.
In both categories, competitors need well-defined muscles. However, Open Bodybuilding doesn’t have any restrictions on weight or height, allowing athletes to build as much muscle as they can. In contrast, Classic Physique has weight-to-height ratios to maintain a more “classic” appearance. Another notable difference is posing style; Classic Physique includes poses like the vacuum and mantis, while Open Bodybuilding incorporates a wider range of mandatory poses that highlight extreme muscle mass and definition.
For beginners contemplating which category to choose, several factors should be considered. Classic Physique might be more accessible since it doesn’t require the level of extreme muscle mass and conditioning as Open Bodybuilding. It’s also often seen as a more sustainable option in the long term. However, if you aspire to reach the peak of muscle development and size, Open Bodybuilding is the way to go.
Conclusion
In the end, deciding between Open and Classic Bodybuilding comes down to your personal bodybuilding goals, genetic potential, and preferences regarding appearance and lifestyle. Both options demand significant commitment and come with their unique benefits and challenges. For newcomers, it is crucial to assess which.
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