Classic Physique

Judging Criteria

The Classic Physique division takes the following elements into consideration: Proportion as its key component, followed by muscularity and conditioning. Along the lines of old school bodybuilding, posing is also part of the score.


Classic Physique is a homage to the Golden Era of bodybuilding, where the ideal proportions had the perimeter of an athlete’s flexed arms match the perimeter of their neck and calves. (e.g., A man with 16” flexed arms should ideally have 16” calves and a 16” neck measured around). Upper leg development by Golden Era standards is limited by calf development, and vice versa. That is to say, thighs should grow as much as calves allow to maintain symmetry. Outstanding body parts, in terms of development would not make for a higher score.

Posing

Quarter turns

Mandatory Poses

Classic Poses

(To be called at Head Judge’s discretion)


Archer Pose

Larry Scott

Mantis Pose

Arnold Pose

Victory

Frank Zane

Overhead Vacuum

Note that all organizations, The Open Natural™ included, would discourage the Most Muscular pose as a way to reiterate Classic Physique is not a quest for the most muscular man. It is a quest for the most aesthetic muscular physique.

Individual Routine: Competitors individually perform an up to 60-second posing routine to music. The individual routine will be factored into the competitor’s total score and will also count toward consideration for Overall Best Male Athlete.

Pose down: A free posing round will be called at the end of comparisons where contestants can further display their Classic posing skills.

Suit: It consists of square shaped black spandex shorts without any logos. All posing suits will be subject to prior inspection. 

Notable World-Class Champions: Steve Reeves (Golden Era), Conner Rush (Current Era)