COMPETITION RULES

RULES AND TERMS OF SERVICE

Mission Statement

The NBFI will work tirelessly to develop and positively evolve physical culture.

Introduction

This document serves as the controlling authority for the NBFI. It outlines the rules, policies, criteria and administration guidelines for NBFI Amateur Athletes. 

General

The NBFI president is entrusted with the guardianship of all matters relating to amendments or additions to any rules, policies, or criteria. The interpretation of these rules, policies, or criteria, if questioned, shall be clarified and declared by the president of the NBFI. The President has the power to ascribe, change, or introduce rulings if warranted.

Agreements

Any promoter, athlete, service provider, or affiliated individual shall enter into any arrangement or agreement voluntarily and of their own free will. By doing so, these external parties are bound to accept the rules laid out in this document and adhere to the working practices of the NBFI.

Liability

No promoter, athlete, service provider, or affiliated individual shall have any claim against the NBFI for any loss incurred, whether financial, reputational, or in terms of time. Any promoter or organiser must take the necessary steps to provide medical and insurance cover for any event under their control.

Media Rights

Any photograph, video recording, or other images of athlete participation in a sanctioned NBFI event will be considered assigned images, and the NBFI will hold copyright over these works. 

NBFI Professional Athletes.

NBFI Professional Athletes are selected from the best amateur athletes.

Code of Ethics.

All athletes, officials, judges, or NBFI affiliates, by participating, agree to abide by and honour the NBFI  Code of Ethics as outlined in this document.

Competitor Rules and Guidelines

Correct as of January 2026 and will apply to the 2026 season and until further notice.  PLEASE read carefully before directing any queries to us.

Sections:

1. Memberships/Entry Rules
2. Amateur/Professional status
3. Drug testing, anti-doping and banned substances
4. Competition classes
5. On Site Services
6. Rules/guidelines for individuals

1 – MEMBERSHIPS/ENTRY RULES

Membership and entry fees for the season are shown on the entry form for each contest. 

Association membership is €80 per season and expires on 31st December regardless of when purchased. 

Entry into each class of each contest is €50 (so for example, membership to the NBFI and entry into one class at one contest is €130). Entries for ALL contests close 14 days before the day of the event, and once submitted memberships and entry fees are non-refundable without exception.

NBFI membership and entry to NBFI events are available to eligible amateur natural athletes based in Ireland, Irish citizens residing outside Ireland, and eligible international amateur athletes.
Each application is reviewed individually and the NBFI reserves the right to decline membership and/or entry where an athlete does not satisfy NBFI eligibility, amateur status, anti-doping or competition requirements.

All athletes, without exception, must hold the applicable NBFI membership and pay the relevant show registration fee before participating on stage. It is the responsibility of each competing athlete to be aware of all relevant competition rules and to adhere to them.

Variations, omissions, and additional classes are at the discretion of the NBFI but must be approved by the head judge. The NBFI may introduce or remove certain classes if and when they feel necessary. Any age-relative class will require the athlete to produce ID at registration.(Passport/Driving License/Birth Certificate)

The minimum age to compete in any NBFI event is 16 years old.

All qualifying shows will operate as run-through events. Athletes will go on stage, participate, and then receive placings, trophies, invitations, etc.

No background music shall include swear words, blasphemy, or promote violence or racial hatred. In any instance of this happening, the music will be stopped.

Lewd or gratuitous posing is not permitted. Athletes must not lie on the stage as part of their individual routines. 

The head judge has the authority to remove or prevent an athlete from stepping on stage if it is felt that the athlete has not respected the rules above.

Any member of the NBFI whose conduct is deemed inappropriate, damaging to the association or not within the spirit of sport either in or out of a contest may have their membership withdrawn. THIS INCLUDES CONDUCT ON SOCIAL MEDIA OR OTHER ELECTRONIC COMMUNICATION PLATFORMS.

2 – AMATEUR/PROFESSIONAL STATUS 

An amateur athlete is defined as one who is not currently an eligible “Pro Card” holder with any governing body recognised by NBFI and its affiliate partners. 

Professional athletes who have either never competed as a Pro or not competed as a Pro for over 2 whole seasons may choose to relinquish Professional status and are eligible to return to amateur competition and apply for NBFI membership.

Amateur members are free to compete with any other sanctioning body they are a member of, without prejudice.  Holding NBFI membership does not limit an athlete to competing exclusively in NBFI events.

ANY Irish AMATEUR ATHLETES WHETHER HOLDING NBFI MEMBERSHIP OR NOT MAY ONLY COMPETE IN CONTESTS HELD BY OTHER PARTNERING AMATEUR AFFILIATES WITH THE APPROVAL OF THE NBFI, AS THEY ARE DEEMED TO BE REPRESENTING IRELAND IN DOING SO. THEY MUST HAVE PROVEN THEMSELVES TO REPRESENT THE REQUIRED STANDARD TO COMPETE INTERNATIONALLY IN A PRIOR IRISH CONTEST.  EVERY NBFI PARTNER AFFILIATE IS AWARE OF THIS RULING, AND SHOULD NOT GRANT YOU ENTRY TO THEIR CONTESTS WITHOUT OUR APPROVAL.

3 – DRUG TESTING, ANTI-DOPING AND BANNED SUBSTANCES

The NBFI operates in accordance with the WADA list of prohibited substances and methods.  The current list can always be found at 

https://www.wada-ama.org/en/resources/world-anti-doping-program/prohibited-list 

All NBFI members are eligible to be drug tested by one or more methods including urinalysis, blood sampling and approved Lie Detection Technology (with the NBFI reserving the right to test by any other additional legitimate means of testing available without prior notice) either at a NBFI sanctioned event (all of which will feature drug testing by at least one of the aforementioned methods) or “out of competition” at any place they may be for the duration of their membership and for a period of 2 years after their most recent membership has expired. If selected for a test, an athlete has no right of refusal unless in doing so they accept that they will be considered to have tested positive and accept the commensurate penalty for doing so. Athletes aged under the age of 18 or with limited ability to consent will not be tested without the consent and presence of a parent/guardian/appropriate adult of their choosing and the approval of the testing official.

To be eligible to hold NBFI membership and compete in our events, you must be free from the use of all steroids, growth hormones and peptides (categories S0, S1.1 and S2) for a minimum of seven years prior to your first competition with the association, all “over the counter” anabolic agents and hormone/metabolic modulators (categories S1.2 & S4) for a minimum of three years prior to your first competition with the association and stimulants, diuretics and beta2-agonists (categories S3, S5 & S6) for a minimum of 6 months prior to your first competition with the association. Narcotics, cannabinoids and glucocorticoids (categories S7, S8 and S9) are banned “in competition” and athletes are required not to have these substances in their system when competing.

Muscle implants are forbidden, as are blood, gene and cell doping/manipulation and the tampering of samples collected for analysis (prohibited methods M1, M2 & M3).

Any athlete prescribed a substance which appears on the prohibited list by a licensed medical professional for a genuine diagnosed medical condition which cannot reasonably be treated without the use of that substance can apply for a Therapeutic Use Exemption (TUE). Please contact the association directly and the antidoping officer will assess your case and take you through this process if you are eligible.

All NBFI members MUST ensure they are eligible for membership BEFORE they apply by checking substances they have ingested against the WADA prohibited list in its current form as shown on the WADA website. All members are responsible throughout their membership for ensuring they adhere to the guidelines laid out in the rules of the association, the prohibited list and alter the use of any substances which may subsequently be added to the list.

Any drug test failures may result in disqualification from all events that the failed athlete has competed in during that season and a subsequent ban from NBFI and partner governing bodies membership from any period between one year and life (depending on the substance detected).  Results will also be shared with any other sport governing body and may render the athlete who has tested positive liable to a ban with them also.

The NBFI and its officials CANNOT endorse ANY supplement or product for being “safe” to use in competition unless its manufacturing process has been guaranteed to the association. It is the responsibility of the individual to ensure that no ingredients of any product used appear on the banned list, and for the manufacturer to confirm that the product contains nothing but the listed ingredients.  If in doubt, don’t use it.

The database at https://globaldro.com/Home is a useful resource to check medications and single ingredients to see if they feature on the prohibited list, but will NOT list most sports supplements as they contain multiple ingredients and often “proprietary blends” that do not indicate their ingredient makeup.  If a product that you search for on the database is not found, please do not assume that it is permitted for use.

4 – COMPETITION CLASSES

MENS CLASSES

• Teen Bodybuilding (up to and including 19 years of age on the day of the event).
• Junior Bodybuilding (up to and including 23 years of age on the day of the event)
• Novice Bodybuilding (See Novice Criteria)
• Masters Bodybuilding 40+
• Masters Bodybuilding 50+
• Open Bodybuilding (Lightweight 72kgs & Under, Middleweight 80kg and Under, Heavyweight over 80kgs).
• Mens Physique Junior (Up to and including 23 years of age on the day of the event)
• Mens Physique Open (May be split short/Tall at head judges discretion)
• Masters Physique 40+
• Classic Physique (Which carrys a maximum weight/height ratio of height in CM-100 +2kg)

WOMENS CLASSES

• Bikini 40+
• Bikini Open (May be split short/Tall at head judges discretion).
• Wellness (Open division)
• Masters Figure 40+
• Toned Figure
• Trained Figure
• Bodybuilding

FIRST TIMERS AND NOVICE EVENTS/CLASSES

The eligibility to compete in these divisions where offered is as follows:

• A FIRST TIMER is an athlete who has NEVER competed before in ANY discipline, governing body, year or country.  If you have EVER stepped onstage before in ANY bodybuilding/fitness type event to be judged on the physique you present then you are no longer a first timer.  

• A NOVICE is defined as an athlete who has never won a contest, been invited to and/or competed in a National level contest with any federation in any country in any PREVIOUS season, or an athlete who has never placed in the top 3 in an Open division in ANY season.

• Athletes that have won a national title or competed internationally in a teen or junior division are not eligible to compete as Novices. (Any exceptions to this ruling will be assessed individually.)  

CROSSOVER ENTRIES ARE PERMITTED WITH A MAXIMUM OF 2 DIVISIONS PER ATHLETE, PER EVENT.

5 – ON SITE SERVICES

LINKS TO THESE SERVICES ARE AVAILABLE ON THE SERVICES PAGE.

The following services will be made available for athletes at every one of our events:

• TANNING. Although on site tanning is available, you are not obliged to use it if you prefer to take care of your own tan off-site (self-application is not allowed in the venue). Link to the official tanning provider is available on the homepage and you will only be allowed to book your tan once membership and shop entry has been completed.
• OFFICIAL MEDIA –  There is an official media team at all NBFI events.  They may be present at registration where you may order and pay for your stage photos if you did not order them in advance. Photos may be ordered after the event, at an increased rate due to additional admin requirements.
• MAKEUP/HAIR – These will be available on site. Link on homepage.

NO OTHER TANNERS OR MAKEUP ARTISTS WILL BE ALLOWED IN THE VENUE AND NO OTHER PROFESSIONAL STANDARD PHOTOGRAPHERS OR VIDEOGRAPHERS WILL BE PERMITTED TO CAPTURE FOOTAGE OF THE EVENT UNLESS AUTHORISED BY OURSELVES.

6 – RULES

CRITERIA

PLEASE READ THIS SECTION CAREFULLY. 

The criteria for each discipline are covered below. It is important that you are familiar with these for the division in which you plan to compete, and the responsibility to meet the criteria for your class and to present yourself correctly onstage rests entirely with you.

NBFI BODYBUILDING DIVISION (MALE AND FEMALE)

1 – OVERVIEW

Bodybuilding is the ultimate display of muscular development — but judges are not only looking for size.

The winning physique combines:

• Muscularity
• Conditioning
• Symmetry & proportion
• Presentation & confidence

The best bodybuilders show mass, detail, and balance — all in harmony.

2- MUSCULARITY

• Overall size and thickness
• Full, dense muscle bellies
• Muscle separation and clear definition
• Even development (no weak areas or overdeveloped parts)

Size must be balanced, not excessive to the point of losing shape or proportion.

3 – CONDITIONING

• Sharp definition, vascularity, and hardness
• Low body fat while maintaining fullness and muscle roundness
• Dryness and detail without looking flat or unhealthy
• Judges reward those who are stage-ready, not just big

Extreme conditioning is good — but only when it enhances shape, not when it sacrifices structure or fullness.

4 – SYMMETRY & PROPORTION

• The physique should flow from top to bottom and side to side
• Equal development in:
• Chest ↔ Back
• Shoulders ↔ Arms
• Quads ↔ Hamstrings
• Upper ↔ Lower body
• Small waist, wide shoulders, and balanced legs are crucial
• Imbalances (e.g., overpowering delts or underdeveloped calves) will cost points

5 – STAGE PRESENTATION

• Confidence, control, and command on stage
• Smooth transitions between poses
• Eye contact and connection with judges
• Tan, grooming, and overall polish — presentation counts

A great physique can lose to a better-presented one.

6 – MANDATORY POSES

Symmetry Round consisting of 4 quarter turns, (Judged from all angles).

Muscularity Round consisting of 8 compulsory poses, (Judged from all angles):

1. Front Double Biceps
2. Front Lat Spread
3. Side Chest
4. Side Triceps
5. Rear double Biceps
6. Rear Lat Spread
7. Abdominals and Thighs
8. Most Muscular – pose of choice

Please retain the 60-second individual routine to the athlete’s submitted music.

Judges look for muscularity, detail, and control in every pose — not just hitting the position but holding it with poise and confidence.

7 – INDIVIDUAL ROUTINE

• 60-second routine to music of choice
• Judged on posing skill, transitions, and ability to display the physique
• Opportunity to show personality and strengths
• Smooth, classic presentation scores better than fast, jerky posing

NBFI CLASSIC PHYSIQUE DIVISION

1 – OVERVIEW

Classic Physique represents the “Golden Era” ideal — symmetry, proportion, balance, and flowing lines.

It combines muscularity and conditioning with aesthetic shape and presentation inspired by classic bodybuilding legends.

Think artistry and athleticism over sheer mass.

2 – MUSCULARITY & CONDITIONING

Judges are looking for:

• Well-developed musculature, but within Classic weight limits (height-to-weight ratio applies)
• Balanced, full muscle bellies — not blocky or bulky
• Clean lines and separation without extreme striations or dryness
• Tight midsection with visible abs and small waist

Conditioning should be sharp, but not grainy or extreme.

A healthy, aesthetic look is rewarded over “shredded at all costs.”

3 – SYMMETRY, SHAPE & PROPORTION

• Classic Physique is all about balance and flow
• Wide shoulders → narrow waist → balanced legs
• Equal development across front, side, and rear
• No single body part should overpower the rest
• Judges assess aesthetic silhouette — “X-frame” (shoulders–waist–quads)
• Overall proportion and taper take priority over raw size

4 – POSING & STAGE PRESENTATION

POSING IS A MAJOR FACTOR IN CLASSIC PHYSIQUE SCORING.

Athletes are judged on:

• Flow, transitions, and control
• Artistic expression and poise
• Ability to showcase physique through movement
• Stage charisma and confidence

The best posers tell a story — smooth, confident, and elegant, not rushed or mechanical.

5 – MANDATORY POSES

Competitors will perform the following 5 mandatory poses:

1. Front Double Biceps (Classic Style)
2. Side Chest
3. Back Double Biceps (Classic Style)
4. Abdominals and Thighs (with vacuum)
5. Classic Pose of Choice

6 – INDIVIDUAL ROUTINE ROUND

• Flow, grace, and stage presentation are directly scored
• Music should complement the physique and class — classic, powerful, or artistic tones work best
• This round can decide close placings, especially when physiques are similar

7 – ATTIRE

• Classic-style posing trunks 
• Must be black
• Tan and grooming should enhance physique lines
• Jewellery not permitted

8 – SCORING POINTS

Judges rank based on the following order of importance:

1. Structure
2. Symmetry, shape, proportion
3. Muscularity within classic limits
4. Conditioning
5. Presentation and posing
6. Stage confidence & charisma

There is a weight cap in KG for athletes in this division which is calculated by height in CM-100 +2kg.  For example, an athlete who is 180cm tall may not weigh more than 82kg.

NBFI MENS PHYSIQUE DIVISION

1 – OVERALL ASSESSMENT

Judges are looking for:

• A lean, fit, muscular, and aesthetic physique
• A V-taper: broad shoulders, developed chest, and narrow waist
• Balance, proportion, symmetry, and shape — all key

2 – MUSCULARITY & BODY CONDITION

• Muscle should be well-developed but not excessive
• Emphasis is on shape and definition, not size or vascularity
• Visible abs and overall leanness are important, but extreme conditioning (striations, paper-thin skin) is not required and will be judged individually

3 – SYMMETRY & PROPORTION

• The upper and lower body must be in harmony
• Shoulder-to-waist ratio is critical — a clean, tight waistline enhances the V-taper
• Legs are not judged directly, but should be in proportion to the upper body (no overly large or small legs that disrupt balance)

4 – STAGE PRESENCE & PRESENTATION

• Confidence, poise, and charisma on stage count heavily
• Athletes should look comfortable and in control
• Facial expression and posture matter — relaxed, confident, engaging with the judges

5 – ATTIRE

• Board shorts are required
• Length: just above the knee
• Waistband should sit just below the navel
• No spandex, logos, or rolled-down waistbands
• No jewelry (except wedding bands)
• Tan, grooming, and overall presentation should be clean and professional

6 – POSING & PRESENTATION ROUND

Athletes perform the following:

Front Pose

• Relaxed front pose of choice facing judges
• One hand on hip, both arms slightly flared, both hands on hip etc
• Show width, chest fullness, and tight midsection

Quarter Turns

• Smooth transitions between front, side, and back
• Maintain posture and control throughout

Back Pose

• Facing away from judges, showing width and taper
• Hands relaxed (no hands on hips)
• Keep glutes tight and abs engaged — no flexing or bodybuilding-style poses

Individual Presentation (T-Walk / Model Walk)

• Walk to center, pause, perform front pose, back pose, front pose again and one pose of choice (i.e. abs pose)
• No bodybuilding poses. I.e Most Muscular.  
• Smooth transitions and natural flow are key here

7 – SCORING FOCUS

Judges assess competitors based on:

• Shape & symmetry
• Conditioning
• Posing, presentation & confidence (New For 2026)
• Overall aesthetic appeal

NBFI BIKINI DIVISION

OVERVIEW

The Bikini division represents a fit, feminine, and healthy look.

Judges are looking for an athletic yet soft and natural appearance — not overly muscular, lean, or striated.

Poise, personality, and stage presence are equally important as physique.

1 – SHAPE & PROPORTION

• Balanced physique with visible tone and curves.
• Full glutes, tight midsection, and balanced upper body (shoulders and arms).
• No one muscle group should dominate the physique.

2 – CONDITIONING

• Tight and firm, showing tone without hardness.
• No deep separation, vascularity, or dryness.
• Skin tone, tan, and texture should appear healthy and natural.

3 – POISE & PRESENTATION

• Confidence, elegance, and personality are key.
• Smooth transitions between poses — no stiffness or exaggerated movement.
• Eye contact, smile, and posture all contribute to the overall score.
• Presentation should be polished and engaging, never forced.

4 – OVERALL APPEARANCE

• Hair, makeup, suit color, and accessories should complement the athlete’s physique.
• Judges look at the full package: physique, confidence, grooming, and attitude.

STAGE PRESENTATION

ATHLETES WILL PERFORM:

• FRONT POSE OF CHOICE – Athlete with both hands on waist/One hand on waist, one arm down/Both arms down)
• Create a lat flair to display upper body balance.
• Hands must not rise above the hips.
• Hips may face front or be slightly twisted to the side with a spiked foot. (Athletes choice)
• Display upper body balance, glute shape, and midsection tightness.
• QUARTER TURN TO RIGHT – Side position.
• Athletes showing left side; choice of rear or nearest leg straight, rear or nearest leg bent. Right hand on waist, left arm down. 
• BACK POSE OF CHOICE – (Both hands on waist/One hand on waist, one arm extended/Both arms extended to side)
• Hands must not rise above the hips.
• Create a lat flair to display upper body balance.
• Hips remain neutral – No twisting.
• Glutes and hamstrings displayed with relaxed posture.
• Glutes tight but not flexed hard.
• Hair off the back
• No excessive leaning.
• QUARTER TURN TO RIGHT – Side position. 
• Athletes showing right side; choice of rear or nearest leg straight, rear or nearest leg bent. Left hand on waist, right arm down. 
• QUARTER TURN – Return to front pose of choice..

STAGE MOVEMENT

• When instructed athletes will turn from their front pose to the rear and will walk 3-4 steps forward towards the back of the stage, stop and hit their rear pose.
• When instructed, turn and return to the front line in the front pose.

JUDGES ASSESS;

• Shape
• Symmetry
• Confidence 
• Presentation from all angles

INDIVIDUAL WALK (I Walk).

Competitors will walk onstage individually and perform their I walk as follows:

• Walk to the back centre of the stage and hit your front pose of choice.
• Walk to the front centre marker and hit your front pose of choice again.
• Transition into your quarter turns to finish with your front pose. 
• Sign off and walk off to the side of the stage.

NO LEWD ACTS ARE PERMITTED.

NBFI FIGURE DIVISION – ALL DIVISIONS

OVERVIEW

The Figure division represents the perfect balance of muscle, shape, and femininity.

Athletes should present a lean, athletic, and proportionate physique — strong but graceful, with poise and confidence on stage.

Judged On

1 – SHAPE & SYMMETRY

• Flowing lines, balanced proportions, and an overall hourglass shape.
• Wide shoulders, defined lats, small waist, and balanced legs.
• Judges assess total shape and balance rather than individual muscle size.

2 – MUSCULARITY AND CONDITIONING

• Clearly visible muscle tone and roundness through the shoulders, arms, and legs.
• Not as muscular or conditioned as Trained Figure — development should appear athletic. FOR TRAINED FIGURE athletes should have slightly more muscle mass, lower body fat with more emphasis on conditioning with visible striations and lines throughout.
• No striations or extreme separation should be visible for toned figure.

3 – CONDITIONING

• As Above.
• Smooth transitions between muscle groups — no harsh lines

4 – PRESENTATION & POISE

• Confidence, posture, and composure are essential.
• Should display grace, stage presence, and femininity.
• Hair, makeup, tan, and suit should complement the physique and overall look.
• Movement between poses should be smooth and controlled.

STAGE PRESENTATION

COMPETITORS WILL PERFORM

       Quarter Turns:

• Front Pose – Stand with feet together, hips facing the judges. Arms at your side, slightly away from your body with a lat flare.
• Side Pose – (Left side facing the judges) – Feet together, legs straight, with your left leg closest to the judges.Torso tight to the side, upper body rotated slightly toward the front. Arms down by your sides, slightly away from the body with a clear lat flare.
• Rear Pose – Stand with feet together, hips facing away from the judges.
• Side Pose – (Right side facing the judges) – Feet together, legs straight, with your right leg closest to the judges.Torso tight to the side, upper body rotated slightly toward the front. Arms down by your sides, slightly away from the body with a clear lat flare.

Mandatory Poses

• Front Double Biceps (Open hands) – Both feet planted on the floor; a spiked foot on the tip of the toe is also acceptable.
• Side Chest – Back leg bent, front leg straight midsection tight to the side. Palms together, one arm pulled back into the side of the torso. Other posing into the chest. Upper body rotated slightly toward the and rotate the upper torso towards the judges. 
• Side Triceps – Back leg bent and front leg straight, midsection facing the side. Arm closest to the judges extended straight to display the tricep, with the back arm gripping the front arm. Abdominals tight.            
• Back Double Biceps  (Open hands) – Both feet planted on the floor; a spiked foot on the tip of the toe is also acceptable. 
• Abdominals and thigh pose (TRAINED FIGURE ONLY)
• 60 SECOND INDIVIDUAL ROUTINE. 
• No flexing, twisting, or excessive posing — keep lines clean and elegant
• Judges will assess from all angles for:
• Shape, proportion, and overall flow
• Poise and confidence throughout the round

NBFI WELLNESS DIVISION

OVERVIEW

The wellness division represents an athletic, feminine and powerful physique with emphasis on lower body development.

Judges are looking for fuller glutes and thighs, balanced with a athletic upper body, not extreme conditioning or excessive upper body muscularity.

Judged On

1 – SHAPE & PROPORTION

• Emphasis on glutes, hamstrings, and quads — fuller and rounder than Bikini.
• The upper body remains tight and toned (i.e. bikini), but not overly developed.
• Clear difference between upper and lower body — lower body dominance is expected, but not overly exaggerated.

2 – CONDITIONING.

• Tight and firm with moderate definition.
• Slightly softer look than Trained figure.
• No deep separation or extreme leanness.
• Skin should appear healthy and smooth, showcasing fullness rather than striations.

3 – PRESENTATION & POISE

• Confidence, charisma, and stage presence are key.
• Movements should be fluid, feminine, and controlled.
• Walks and transitions should highlight the glutes and legs naturally — no exaggerated bouncing or over-posing.
• Facial expression and overall aura should project confidence and approachability.

4 – OVERALL APPEARANCE

• Judges assess the complete package — physique, hair, makeup, suit, tan, and stage confidence.
• Presentation should be refined, athletic, and professional.
• The ideal look is strong yet feminine.

STAGE PRESENTATION

Competitors will perform:

• Front Pose – Athletes must stand with one leg straight at the back (either leg), carrying most of their weight on this leg. The other leg should be slightly bent facing forward.
• Side pose (Left side) – Left leg straight, Right  leg bent, midsection facing the side, right arm on waist, left arm extended slightly out below waist height with minimum lat flare.
• Back Pose – Feet hip width apart, hands on quads, no excessive lat flair and no hard flexing.
• Side pose (Right Side) – Right leg straight, left leg bent, midsection facing the side, left arm on waist, right arm extended slightly out below waist height with minimum lat flare.
• STAGE MOVEMENT.
• When instructed from your front pose turn to the rear and walk 3-4 steps towards the back of the stage.
• Hit your rear pose and hold that pose.
• When instructed, return to the front line and hit your front pose again.

JUDGES ASSESS;

• Shape
• Symmetry
• Confidence
• Presentation from all angles.

INDIVIDUAL WALK (I Walk).

Competitors will walk onstage alone and perform their I Walk:

• Walk to the back centre stage marker, stop and hit your front pose.
• Walk to the front centre stage marker and hit your front pose again.of choice.
• Proceed into your quarter turns and sign off in either a side or front pose to the side of the stage. 

NO LEWD ACTS ARE PERMITTED.

NBFI INTERNATIONAL ENTRY

NBFI CODE OF ETHICS

The NBFI is committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity, fairness, and professionalism in all aspects of natural bodybuilding. Our Code of Ethics guides athletes, officials, and members to ensure the sport is conducted in a safe, respectful, and transparent environment.

In all instances, the NBFI insists on the following practices:

•   All NBFI members, officials, and service providers must promote health and safety in every aspect of NBFI-related activities.
•   All NBFI members, officials, and service providers must ensure respect is shown to all individuals. Everyone should be treated equally and sensitively, regardless of age. ancestry, colour, gender, race, sexual orientation, religious beliefs, or disability
•   All NBFI members, officials, and service providers must honour the spirit of sport. Fair play, adherence to the rules, politeness, acceptance of decisions, and moderate
•   All NBFI members, officials, and service providers must report any transgressions or breaches of this Code of Ethics, whether formally or informally.
•   In cases of transgressions, cheating, inappropriate behaviour, or breaches of this Code of Ethics, the NBFI has the authority to sanction, disqualify, withdraw support, expel, or impose limitations on individuals or supporting organisations found to contravene NBFI rules.

CONCLUSION

Any queries NOT answered in this document are to be directed via email to nbfibodybuilding@gmail.com or via DM to the NBFI Instagram page.