Frequently Asked Questions

How can I register?

The registration link for competitors can be found in the "Athlete Resources" section of our website.

The registration fee includes urine drug testing (if you place first in your class), professional stage photos of your presentation, and there is no additional membership fee.

Does this show have official sanction?

Yes, we are a self-sanctioned contest operating under the umbrella of Mr. America. Our event upholds the same rigorous standards as any premier natural bodybuilding competition in terms of judging, qualifications, and testing. 

The name of our team—or our sanction, if you will—is Open Bodybuilding. Our event is designed as a supplementary contest for athletes who want the experience of stepping on an alternative stage without having to switch federations or purchase a new membership. We’re here to celebrate the hard work of every athlete and every fellow promoter.

In addition, our show is an ideal opportunity for more ambitious athletes who are looking to qualify for the most prestigious natural bodybuilding contest in the United States—Mr. America. 

Is this show a Pro-Qualifier?

Yes, open division winners in every full class can Pro Qualify for the prestigious 2025 Mr. America contest. A full class means having 5 or more competitors in Bodybuilding, Classic Physique, and Figure, or 8 or more competitors in Men's Physique and Bikini.

It's important to understand that a Pro Qualification, a Pro card, and being a Professional Athlete are different things:

1. Pro Qualification: This allows an athlete to compete in high-level events like Mr. America, IPE World's, Yorton Cup, where cash prizes are awarded to winners.

2. Pro Card: This is a paid membership to a league (e.g., IFBB, WNBF) that only pro qualified athletes can buy. In the context of bodybuilding, Pro affiliations are typically sold as an annual membership to a league.

3. Professional Athlete: This refers to someone who is paid a salary or sponsorship to play a sport season, regardless of winning or losing. These athletes can make sport their primary career without the distractions of a day job. There are very few documented cases of professional natural bodybuilders under this definition.

How can I sign up for 'Master' divisions?

You will notice there are no checkboxes for age divisions (also known as Master classes) on our entry form. Instead, we ask for your date of birth so we can calculate your age as of August 23 and automatically place you in the appropriate age group at no additional charge. For example, a 41-year-old competitor can compete in both the 40-49 age group and the Open class with a single entry.  [YouTube Video]