Figure Guidelines
The Promoter has the option to divide the class as they see fit.
Judging Criteria
The judges look for an athletic body with feminine conditioning that displays symmetry, proportion, muscularity, overall conditioning as well as stage presence and personality. Excessive muscularity, vascularity, separation, and striation will be marked down. In addition to the poses in quarter turns, judging is based upon the presentation of:
- Mass
- Definition
- Proportion
- Symmetry
- Stage Presence
Mass:
A Figure competitor must have feminine developed muscles with a small amount of visible separation in order for judges to accurately critique the shape, symmetry, proportion and conditioning of the athlete's full physique.
Definition:
Indicates the degree of muscularity brought about by the absence of subcutaneous body fat. Evidence of ab muscles is preferred. Figure competitors must present a wide back with depth, a sweep to the quads, a welldconditioned core, definitive roundness in the delts, a small amount of muscle separation, a nice “V” taper, and tight glutes with definitive separation between the glutes and hamstrings. There shall be no evidence of muscle striations, graininess or muscle thickness as seen in Women’s Physique. From the front, shoulders should be well defined and flow nicely into the triceps and biceps. There should be a taper in the lats into the oblique, noticeably flowing into the sweep of the upper thigh. In general, her physique should show separation and conditioning but not be over lean or striated. From the side, her body should show a nice taper from the lat, to tie into the oblique d showing an “oblique sweep”. The legs should be muscular with a minimum separation of the quads. The calves should be well developed, and semidflexed with the use of heels. From the back, the shoulders should be well toned, a balanced posture and the lats having a nice taper to the lumbar area. The glutes and hamstrings should be firm and should show a wellddeveloped outer sweep to the thigh. Calves will be firm and nicely developed. Limited body fat in this area is a strong adage.
Proportion:
Implies an even balance of muscular development in comparison to each muscle group. Athletes must strive for equal development between all muscle groups. Proportion specifically indicates a comparison of muscle groups. As an example, large biceps and small quads will indicate a nondproportionate physique.
Symmetry:
Symmetry is simply equal development of muscularity on both right and left sides of the physique. As an example, a left bicep less developed than the right bicep indicates a lack of symmetry.
Stage Presence:
Includes execution of quarter turns that are fluid without hesitation and with poise as well as other factors influencing general appearance and overall polish to include skin tone, hair, makeup and accessories. Effective stage presentation is essential to display the physique to its maximum potential.
Presentation
In each quarter turn: a relaxed erect stance, eyes and head facing the same direction as the body, heels together, feet inclined outward at a 30-degree angle, knees together and unbent, stomach in, chest out, shoulders back, arms relaxed at side and slightly back from centerline of the body, elbows slightly bent. As the athlete turns, the positioning of the arms will cause the torso to torque toward judges and opendup features, lines, and shape.
T-Walk will start from the side of the stage with the house music. At the pivot points, quarter turns and pauses will allow for repositioning, attitude display and professional demeanor. Two or three poses will be executed at each point. Finals routine will be a maximum 60 seconds for amateurs with house music and 90 seconds for Pros. Pros perform to music of their choice following the rules set forth by the NGA. The promoter has the option to adjust the maximum time limit. Music containing profanity or explicit language will not be allowed and may result in being disqualified from the contest.
At the pivot points, quarter turns and pauses will allow for hair repositioning, attitude display and professional demeanor. Waves and smiles are always nice.
Attire
Suits worn by Figure athletes must be a twodpiece that crosses in the back. Suits do not need to be a solid color, but pastel and skin colored suits can wash out on stage. The bottom of the suit must be Vdshaped. Ornamentation like sequins is permitted. Absolutely no thongs are permitted. All suits must be in good taste. Body piercing and hairpieces are allowed, but jewelry should be limited. No oil may be used. Sheen is okay. Clear heels (not platforms) shall be worn and props are not used at any time in the Figure Competition.
Prejudging (Day Show)
1. The Promoter has the option to present the athletes at prejudging via an IdWalk. As the class is lined up backstage d ready to compete. Each competitor takes the stage individually and is introduced by competitor number only. The athlete goes mid stagedhits one or two poses and goes to the back line. Once every competitor is on stage (at the back line) all competitors then line up as per normal prejudging parameters.
2. Contestants will be brought out all at once and do quarter turns to the right.
3. Judges score symmetry, proportion, and tone/conditioning. The judges may move Athletes around. Keep smiling and listen to the calls. Body shape includes how the muscle groups are shaped, pleasing to the eye and proportionate.
4. The judges will look for a fitness type of physique, which includes a level of overall muscle tone achieved through athletic endeavors but not a bodybuilding development style. The muscles have a round and firm appearance, indicating muscle tone and condition. There should be muscle definition between major muscle groups, like biceps and triceps, but not excessive separation or cut. Muscle tone also means the absence of excessive fat and water with a sense of overall body hardness. Judges will look for an even balance of muscle to frame and balance of body parts to each other.
Finals (Evening Show)
1. Contestants will be brought out again as a group. Exiting off stage, athletes will be redintroduced individually for “T-Walks”. Follow the stage directions given earlier and stroll at a pace that will take up approximately: 60 seconds. Athletes will be judged on Presentation/Poise. Judges are looking for confidence, grace, and overall style. Charisma, inner beauty and appearance are considered. How athletes walk, carry themselves and “come across” is pertinent.
2. A final linedup may follow. Judges may ask to compare contestants for any final comparisons.
3. Each round will be worth one half of the total score.
4. At the awards time, all ladies will come out for a final group stroll.
5. The final top three or five (promoter’s discretion) will receive their awards