Different Types of Bodybuilding 

Exploring Men’s Bodybuilding Divisions 

• Overview of Men’s Open Division 

The Men’s Open Division is the most sought-after division in bodybuilding, attracting competitors with impressive muscle mass. These athletes are categorized into weight classes and judged based on their overall muscle development, symmetry, and presentation. The level of commitment required for this division is incredibly high, as participants must adhere to strict diet and training regimens. To make it to elite events like the Olympia, athletes often need to qualify through regional and national competitions. With its intense competition and big-name participants, the Men’s Open Division certainly lives up to its reputation in the world of bodybuilding. 

• Details about 212 Division or 212 Olympia 

The 212 Division, also known as 212 Olympia, focuses on creating a balanced and aesthetic physique. Competitors in this division have a weight limit of 212 pounds (96 kg) or less. The 212 Division highlights proportion, symmetry, and muscle separation. This division allows athletes to compete at a slightly smaller size while still maintaining an impressive physique. Learning about the 212 Division provides an understanding of the specific criteria and challenges faced by athletes in this category. 

• Insight into Classic Physique Division 

The Classic Physique Division aims to capture the aesthetics of the “Golden Era” of bodybuilding, showcasing a classic bodybuilder look reminiscent of Arnold Schwarzenegger’s era. This division emphasizes a more streamlined physique with a smaller waist, balanced muscle size, and symmetry. It appeals to those who appreciate a lean and aesthetic physique without the extreme muscle mass of the Open Division. Gaining insight into the Classic Physique Division offers a glimpse into the fusion of athleticism and aesthetics. 

• Highlighting Men’s Physique Division 

The Men’s Physique Division in bodybuilding competitions is a relatively new category that focuses on overall athletic appearance rather than muscle size and symmetry. Competitors in this division wear board shorts and are judged on factors such as muscularity, conditioning, posing, and stage presence. It appeals to those who want to showcase a more achievable and functional physique. Notable Men’s Physique competitors include Jeremy Buendia, Brandon Hendrickson, and Raymont Edmonds. This division offers a refreshing alternative to the traditional bodybuilding divisions, allowing individuals to highlight their lean, fit, and muscular physique without the extreme mass. 

Different Types of Bodybuilding: Wheelchair Division 

The Wheelchair Division provides a platform for athletes with physical disabilities to showcase their physique through specialized routines and poses. This division highlights the strength, determination, and resilience of these athletes, promoting inclusivity and breaking barriers. It brings awareness to the opportunities available for athletes with physical disabilities, showcasing the adaptability of bodybuilding as a sport. The Wheelchair Division is a powerful testament to the indomitable spirit of these competitors, proving that with passion and dedication, anyone can achieve greatness in the world of bodybuilding. 

Delving into Women’s Bodybuilding Divisions 

Women’s bodybuilding is a sport that celebrates the female physique and its strength. It is a challenging and rewarding activity that can help women build muscle, confidence, and self-esteem. 

There are a number of different divisions in women’s bodybuilding, each with its own unique criteria. Some of the most common divisions include: 

• Bikini: Bikini competitors are judged on their overall physique, symmetry, and stage presence. They must wear a bikini that covers their nipples and buttocks. 
• Figure: Figure competitors are judged on their overall physique, symmetry, and proportion. They must wear a posing suit that covers their nipples and buttocks. 

• Fitness: Fitness competitors are judged on their overall physique, symmetry, and stage presence. They must wear a posing suit that covers their nipples and buttocks. They also perform a fitness routine that showcases their athleticism and cardiovascular fitness. 
• Women’s physique: Introduced in 2012, Women’s Physique Division is a relatively new category in bodybuilding. It focuses on muscle size, shape, and definition, but not as extreme as in Bodybuilding or Figure categories. Competitors wear a two-piece swimsuit and high heels, showcasing their upper and lower body muscles through poses. Judging criteria include muscle tone, symmetry, conditioning, and overall stage presence. Women’s Physique Division offers an excellent option for women who want to display their strength and muscle development without going to the extreme. 
• Bodybuilding: Bodybuilding competitors are judged on their overall muscle mass, symmetry, and definition. They must wear a posing suit that covers their nipples and buttocks. 

In addition to these general divisions, there are also a number of other divisions that are specific to certain age groups, experience levels, or body types. For example, there are divisions for masters competitors (over the age of 40), teen competitors (under the age of 19), and novice competitors.