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You know you want to compete, you’re ready to dive in and dedicate yourself, but maybe you aren’t sure where to begin? Read on to learn how to get started and the important fundamentals of competing in the NPC – pro tips included!

1. Choose Your Division

Pick the division that best suits your physique.

The different divisions are Bodybuilding, Men’s Classic Physique, Men’s Physique, Women’s Physique, Figure, Fitness, Bikini and Wellness. Each requires a different level of muscularity and leanness. Look at pictures and determine which is best for you.

2. Register for a Show

Know your timeline and register for a show.

Amateurs can compete in any amateur NPC show. This would be every show on the NPC Northeast schedule except for NPC UNIVERSE (a pro qualifier) and the IFBB NY PRO (a pro contest). You can find the schedule and locations of NPC Northeast shows here.

An NPC athlete of any age or experience may compete in the open class. The OPEN is the only class that qualfies you for OPEN NATIONAL CONTESTS.

In order to compete in the Novice category, you must have never placed first in your class in a novice, masters or open contest.

If you are looking to compete in a class according to age (Teen, Juniors, or Masters), you must be the minimum age of the division (ie, 35 and over) on the day of the show, or under the maximum age (ie, 23 and under) on the day of the show. Be sure to bring your ID to check-in to verify your age.

You will need to join the NPC and purchase an NPC card here before competing.

3. TRAINING & PREPARATION

This part is up to you, but the best place to start is www.npcnewsonline.com for tons of great tips on training, diet and nutrition.

You don’t have to hire a coach and we can’t help you find one (that would be a conflict of interest). If you want professional guidance, be sure to do your research and get recommendations. Speak to the coach, ask questions, and make sure you get the answers that make you comfortable. You can also do this on your own and use the resources available on the internet to help you figure this out. Especially the first time, you are going to make a lot of mistakes and that’s how you learn!

4. Rules & Poses

It’s all about presentation.

Each division has its own rules and required poses. You can find them at npcnewsonline.com at the following links:

• Bodybuilding
• Men’s Classic Physique
• Men’s Physique
• Women’s Physique
• Figure
• Fitness
• Bikini
• Wellness

5. Get on Stage

Be prepared to get on stage.

It is mandatory that all competitors check-in before their competition. Be sure to check the contest page online and see when that time is, and do not miss it. Be sure that you have the appropriate suit, trunks, or shorts to wear on stage, as well as your spray tan appointment booked to show off all of your hard work. Most importantly, have fun on competition day!