Figure divisions are broken down by height . Height classes vary depending on total competitor turn out. (promoter may or may not have height classes as listed, but opt for one class or split to just two classes, or more, all based on competitor turnout.)
Guidelines for height classes are as follows:
- A Class (Short Class) (up to and including 5'4")
- Medium Class (Over 5'4" up to and including 5'6")
- Tall Class (Over 5'6")
Figure classes are as follows:
- Novice (must not have placed 1st in any division, class or category, in any federation)
- Open
- Masters (masters classes are set at 35 and up, and again, may be broken into specific age groups based on ages represented)
STAGE ATTIRE: Competitor will wear a two piece figure suit (suit top may connect to suit bottom in the back). Thong suits are not allowed. Suit may be decorated/stoned as desired, but cannot have a logo or writing anywhere on the suit. Clear heels of preferably 5" heel height are to be worn at all times, with the exception of the three compulsory poses. Platforms and heels that exceed 5" are discouraged. Jewelry can include bracelets, rings and earrings. Necklaces are discouraged.
SCORING: Prejudging will consist of the competitor walking on stage alone in heels and performing a front pose, side or model pose, and a back pose, then moving to a diagonal on either side of the stage as directed and remaining there until all competitors in that class are on stage. At this point the head judge will begin call outs for comparisons, where quarter turns will be performed (heels still on). Once quarter turns are completed, the head judge will ask the athletes to file off stage, remove their heels and return for the three compulsory poses:
1. Front Double Biceps
2. Abs and Thigh
3. Back Double Biceps
Finals will consist of each competitor being introduced and entering the stage individually and performing a t-walk or routine to 60-90 seconds of their own music of choice - no vulgarity or profane lyrics allowed - which the competitor provides in advance by email as an Mp3 file (see the REGISTER FOR EVENT form to see when and where to send your music). The athlete may choose to wear heels, or not to wear heels for their t-walk or routine. **NEW FOR 2020 Finals routines will be judged and will account for ~15% of final placings. Competitors will be brought back out for trophy presentations where heels are to be worn.
JUDGING CRITERIA and therefore placings for figure are based on being in athletic shape, but not so lean as to show deep muscle separation or excessive striations. Also characteristic should be symmetry and muscle fullness, as well as and posing and presentation ability. Contestants should strive to achieve low bodyfat levels, but not at the price of sacrificing muscle fullness and symmetry or the above stated characteristics. A v-tapered, athletic frame that doesn't like as dry as one would associate with women's bodybuilding are trademarks of top finishers.
CROSSOVERS: Figure may crossover into Women's Physique, Bikini, Bodybuilding or Women's Transformation (when and where these divisions are offered) , keeping in mind the criteria for each of these divisions. * Crossovers in amateur divisions are limited to one per athlete excluding Fitness Model and Power Body.
JUDGES FEEDBACK: You can receive feedback immediately following Finals by approaching the judges table, and speaking with ANY OF OUR JUDGES - they are asked to stick around and provide such feedback for as long as you need. You can also request feedback in the days following your show from ANY OF OUR JUDGES - they are asked to be prepared to receive email requests and to respond accordingly. We don't assign one particular judge to a particular category simply because we feel since the entire panel is qualified and required to judge each and every competitor, as well as take notes on each and every competitor, you should have access to that feedback. Furthermore, we are confident in the highly qualified judges we select and assign to your show and therefore their ability to provide consistent feedback even when you contact more than one judge.