NATURAL ELITE CHAMPIONSHIP 2025 - REGISTRATION IS STILL OPEN! STANDARD REGISTRATION ENDS ON 29TH JUNE!
CLASSIC PHYSIQUE
Classic Physique competitors showcase a balanced, aesthetic physique, emphasizing proportion, posing elegance, and overall presentation—specifically the artistry of posing.
Classic Physique Criteria
Four mandatory symmetry poses (same as Bodybuilding)
Judged on balance, broad shoulders, small waist, and proportion
Lower body must match upper for an X-frame
Five mandatory Classic Physique muscularity poses
Muscle size, separation, and leanness matter but not at the cost of symmetry
Excessive conditioning or vascularity is penalized
Smooth, controlled posing is key
Holding poses effortlessly boosts scores
No Bodybuilding, Most Muscular, or Men’s Physique poses
CLASSIC PHYSIQUE CLASSES
Classes may be split based on the athlete's height into different classes. The height classes might be as follows;
163CM-, 170CM-, 177CM-, 177CM+
The height/weight class numbers are displayed for reference purposes, we will change/adjust according to the average height / weight of the competitors who have signed up.
* smaller divisions like teens, juniors, masters, might have fewer classes as the number of contestants are fewer.
JUDGING Criteria
Judges are looking for balanced, aesthetic, and well-conditioned physique that reflects the golden era of bodybuilding. They possess muscularity, shape, and symmetry without the extreme mass or leanness required in the Bodybuilding division. The emphasis is on proportion, posing elegance, and an overall classic look, with presentation—specifically the artistry of posing—playing a crucial role in highlighting their physique.
Athletes must wear black posing trunks made of matte or Lycra material without any letters or designs. The trunks must have a side length of up to 4.5 inches and feature either a sculpted or full-back design, ensuring the material does not extend to the upper hamstring. Bodybuilding trunks are strictly not allowed.
Judges are looking for:
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Front, right side, left side, and back Symmetry poses
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Asymmetrical Front Double Biceps
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Side Chest Fists Touching Hip
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Classic Side Triceps
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Rear Double Biceps One Hand Open
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Abdominals and Thighs
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2 Favorite Classic Poses (non-most muscular poses)
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* Favorite poses should be chosen by the athlete to accentuate their symmetry & musculature.
Options may include:
Rear twisted back double bicep, Side mantis, Rear archer, Victory pose, Teacup pose, Vacuum pose
Tanning, grooming, suit choice, posing, stage walk, and overall aesthetic appeal are taken into consideration as judges look for the best overall package.
Athletes are judged in two (2) rounds, please scroll below for more details.
Below are some general stage walk guidelines for physique athletes. Many venues vary in accessibility so athletes should reach out to perspective promoters about stage walk specifics so that you can prepare properly.
The two rounds judged are:
1. Symmetry
Judged on balance, proportion, and harmony. Athletes perform four mandatory poses, showcasing broad shoulders, a tapered waist, and an X-frame. No dominant muscle groups.
2. Musculature & Presentation
Athletes perform five mandatory poses, judged on muscle size, separation, and leanness without sacrificing symmetry or fullness. Excessive conditioning or vascularity is penalized. Smooth, controlled posing, and effortless holds improve scores. No Bodybuilding, Most Muscular, or Men’s Physique poses.