WNBF Men’s Physique

Physique Division competitors are lean, fit, and muscular yet do not have the muscle mass or extreme leanness required for the Bodybuilding Division.

Athletes wear conventional board shorts cut ABOVE the knee. 11″ inseam (28cm) or slightly shorter is allowable. Athletes wearing board shorts at mid thigh length may be scored down.

Physique divisions are height based and split according to athlete numbers keeping events competitive but fair.

One hand shall be placed on the hip on all quarter turns to differentiate from bodybuilding.

No bodybuilding poses are allowed.

What Judges value in physique

One hand on the hip in all poses
Nicely shaped and balanced muscle throughout
A small waist
Good V-taper
Abdominal definition

Full Criteria Document

Judging Criteria & Info

2024 WNBF Pro World Mens Physique Tall Champion Zack Chiou (Taiwan)

Division Definitions

Open

Open division.

Novice

1st time competitors, competitors who have competed but not placed, or competitors who have not placed top 3 in an open class. Novice athletes may also enter open.

Debut

1st time competing in a category. Athletes may also compete in multiple debut categories if it’s their first time on stage.

Teen

15-19 y/o in all categories.

Junior

20-23 y/o in all categories. Junior athletes cannot be 24 the day of the show.

Masters

40+ y/o in all categories.

Grand Masters

50+ y/o in all categories.

Ultra Masters

60+ y/o in all categories.

Stage Walk Guidelines

Get Prepped for competition

Below are some general stage walk guidelines.
Many venues vary in accessibility, so athletes should reach out to prospective promoters about stage walk specifics so that they can prepare properly.