What Judges Look For in Figure
The Figure division emphasizes athletic, balanced physiques with feminine shape and symmetry, while de-emphasizing extreme muscularity. Athletes are judged on overall tone, proportion, stage presence, and presentation, making it one of the most visually elegant divisions in the IFBB Pro League.
Figure competitors must show muscle development without being overly muscular, highlighting shape, balance, and conditioning. Judges compare athletes side by side in mandatory poses, as well as in quarter-turn comparisons.
Please refer also to the IFBB Pro Official Rules on the IFBB Website
women’s figure
1. Muscle Tone & Development
Judges look for moderate, well-defined musculature, enough to show tone and athleticism but not extreme size.
Key areas include shoulders, arms, glutes, legs, and back.
Development should be balanced and symmetrical, maintaining feminine curves.
Overly bulky or “hard” muscles are penalized.
The goal is firm, shapely muscle tone.
In Figure, the ideal athlete looks fit and athletic, showcasing strength without extreme mass.
women’s figure
2. Conditioning & Definition
Conditioning is assessed by clarity of muscle separation, overall shape, and lean, firm appearance.
Judges look for visible lines, tone, and sculpting in the glutes, hamstrings, quads, and shoulders.
Extreme definition or striations (as in bodybuilding) are not expected. The athlete should look healthy and stage-ready.
Proper tanning, skin tone, and stage lighting enhance how definition appears on stage.
women’s figure
3. Symmetry, Balance & Proportion
Symmetry: Left vs right side of the body should be evenly developed.
Balance: Upper and lower body should flow naturally together, creating a cohesive silhouette.
Proportion: Muscle groups should complement each other — shoulders, waist, glutes, and legs should form an aesthetically pleasing hourglass shape.
Judges also consider overall silhouette from front, side, and back angles during quarter-turns.
Figure rewards a harmonious, visually balanced physique — no dominant or lagging areas.
women’s figure
4. Presentation & Stage Presence
Mandatory poses include front pose, side pose, and back pose (quarter-turn comparisons).
Judges evaluate how confidently the athlete displays her physique, her poise, and stage charisma.
Attire, suit fit, hair, makeup, and tanning all contribute to professional stage presentation.
Smooth transitions and polished, confident movement enhance the overall impression.
Presentation allows competitors to highlight strengths, mask minor weaknesses, and impress the judges.
Romania Muscle fest 2025
Photo Credit: Claudio Hardcore FBB
women’s figure
5. Overall Impact
Judges determine who has the most complete, balanced, and visually appealing package.
The winner combines moderate muscular development, excellent symmetry, clean conditioning, and confident presentation.
Figure rewards athletic elegance and stage-ready presence, creating a strong visual impact without extreme muscularity.
2026 Olympia qualification rules
