How to Understand Bodybuilding Judging Criteria for Beginners
I have been attending local shows in Illinois for a while now and I am still trying to figure out how to understand bodybuilding judging criteria for beginners. It often feels like a mystery why one guy wins over another when they both look incredible. I am planning to compete next year so I want to know exactly what the panel is looking for during the comparisons.
From what I have gathered so far it is a mix of muscularity symmetry and conditioning. However I have noticed that sometimes a smaller athlete with better lines beats a massive guy who is a bit soft. It seems like the total package is more important than just having the biggest biceps in the room.
Does anyone have a breakdown of how the scoring works for regional shows? I am curious if the judges use a literal points system or if it is more of a ranking based on subjective feel. I would love to hear from anyone who has sat on a judging panel before.
The best way to start is by looking at the three pillars: Muscle Mass, Symmetry, and Conditioning. In the UK, judges often place a massive emphasis on conditioning. If you aren't 'shredded' or 'peeled,' you'll likely be marked down regardless of how much muscle you have.
I’d add 'Symmetry' to that as a priority for beginners to study. It’s not just about being left-to-right equal; it’s about the flow of the physique. Think of an X-frame: wide shoulders, small waist, and big sweeping quads. If the legs are too small for the upper body, the symmetry score drops.
Totally agree with Dave! I’ve seen guys in Texas shows who are absolute monsters but have no 'flow.' The judges call it being 'blocky.' If you look like a refrigerator on stage, you aren't going to beat the guy who has that classic taper, even if he's 10lbs lighter.
Does anyone else feel like posing is a 'hidden' fourth pillar? I’ve seen novices with better physiques lose because they couldn't hold their breath or their legs were shaking like a leaf in Toronto last year.
Absolutely, MapleLeafFan! Posing is how you show the judges you meet the criteria. If you can't present the muscle, the judges can't score it. I always tell beginners to practice their mandatories until they can hold them for 60 seconds without turning purple.
That makes sense. But what about the 'Callouts'? Why do they move people around from the middle to the ends of the line? That part always confuses me when I'm watching from the stands.
Usually, the centre of the line is where the top 3 are placed. If you get moved to the middle, you’re in the running for the win. If you're pushed to the far ends, you're likely dropping out of the top spots. It's the judges' way of comparing physiques side-by-side.
Spot on. It’s all about comparisons. Sometimes a guy looks great alone, but then he stands next to a guy with better 'muscle maturity' (that hard, grainy look) and suddenly he looks 'soft.'
I disagree with the idea that conditioning is ALWAYS king for beginners. In some Canadian natural feds, if a novice comes in too shredded (looks emaciated), they get marked down for lack of 'health and vitality.' There's a sweet spot.
That's interesting, Dave. So for a first-timer, would you suggest focusing more on being full and muscular or being as lean as possible?
It depends on the division, Mike! Bikini has very different 'conditioning' standards than Women's Physique or Bodybuilding. You need to read the specific federation rulebook—they usually have photos of 'ideal' physiques.
Proper advice that. The rulebooks are a bit dry, but they tell you exactly what they want. For example, some want a 'deep' abdominal wall, while others just want a flat, tight midsection.
Another thing to watch is the 'stage presence.' If you look like you’re having the worst day of your life, the judges feel it. Smile (if appropriate for the division) and look confident!
Yep. If you look like you belong there, they treat you like you belong there. Fake it 'til you make it, right?
One more tip for Mike: attend a 'judges' seminar.' Most federations host them. You can literally ask a head judge to explain a specific call. It’s the best education you can get.
I didn't even know those existed. I'll definitely check for one in the Chicago area. Thanks, Dave!
Also, watch the transitions between poses. Judges are watching you the entire time you are on stage, not just when you're flexing. If you 'collapse' your core between poses, you lose points.
Spot on! It's an endurance event disguised as a beauty pageant. Don't let the smile drop until you're back behind the curtain.
What do you guys think about 'muscle maturity'? Beginners always get told they lack it. Is that just code for 'you're too young'?