Difference Between Physique Divisions

“Before you even consider beginning your fit model or bikini competition prep or stepping on stage for a figure competition, there are secrets the you must know to succeed!  Don’t go forward without these!!!” Julie Lohre, IFBB Pro & Olympia Athlete

One of the first questions I often get from women wanting to compete is what is the difference between physique divisions and what division should I compete in? Whether you want the look of a bikini model fitness competitor, want to compete in a bikini fitness competition or have always dreamed of having the muscle of a women’s physique competitor or bodybuilder you need to start by understanding where you will be the most competitive.

I want to help you understand the difference between the 5 competitive divisions for women in physique shows. There are many organizations to choose from when you want to compete… NPC (National Physique Committee), Fitness America, IFBB (International Federation of Bodybuilders), OCB (Organization of Competitive Bodybuilders), WBFF (World Beauty Fitness & Fashion,  WNBF (World Natural Bodybuilding),  INBF, UFE (Ultimate Fitness Events)… the list goes on and on of open and natural bodybuilding organizations.

The specific divisions will vary from show to show depending on the organization, the number of competitors and the choice of the promoter. That said, let’s go through the specific divisions for the biggest bikini bodybuilding organization on earth, the National Physique Committee or the NPC which is the organization that I turned pro in to become an IFBB Pro.  It is a great place to start!  

Here are the 7 options for women within the NPC and IFBB. Click to skip down to that division.

Women’s Wellness Competition is the newest division which started with the NPC in 2019.  The women’s wellness competitor body type lies somewhere between bikini and figure. It’s focused on a body type for women with a strong lower body but a less developed upper body. I like to think of it as a figure or fitness bottom and a bikini top.

The answer to which division is right for you really is dependent on the type of physique you want for YOUR body. Do you want to have a sleek athletic toned physique? Bikini competitions might be your best bet.  Do you want a V-Taper and a moderate amount of muscle and a feminine look? The figure competition division leans in this direction. Do you have special gymnastics or dance talents you want to be able to incorporate into competing?  Fitness could be a great match.  Looking for more development in your lower body focusing on legs, glutes, and hamstrings?  You should consider the wellness competition division.

Below you will find a set of examples of what to expect in the competitive classes amongst physique shows. These are the divisions common to the NPC, some organizations will differ, but this will give you a good starting point in your journey.