Competitor Information & Checklist

1 - Membership:
All Athletes need to have current year NABBA UK Membership to compete - this must be be pre paid following this link - NABBA 2025 MEMBERSHIP

2 - Entry form: 
You have already completed this but you may enter up-to 2 relative classes. Do this either online or at registration! (Pre registration will secure you place) 

3 - Entry fee:
£50 entry per class - See entry form 

4 - Tanning: 
LSR taking bookings - we highly recommend there services - without doubt in previous years under the queens hall lighting they nail it & offer a full range of services for all skin types / tattoos etc 

Please use this link to enquire directly - 
Click here or 07714245530- Liquid Sun Rays 

5 - Music:
Athletes in bodybuilding classes who have prepared own music can upload via the application form - this is preferred method as we can test the track to ensure it plays - if you choose to bring music on the day it must be on a memory stick as a standard MP3 - we cannot accept CD’s

6 - Spectator tickets:
These are available on the website  just follow link - if any remaining tickets these will be available on the door.

 

Rule updates:
Athletes can now enter Up to ‘TWO RELEVANT’ categories at area shows. (ie - Over 35 Bikini can also enter open Miss Bikini - novice toned can also enter open toned - mens Jr / Novice / Classic / First timer - can enter Mr’s etc - SEE RULES 

Tickets will be available this week please watch out for link!

Any question please WhatsApp 07734314508  or email info@nabbani.co.uk

 

POLITE REMINDER 

EVERY ATHLETE MUST ATTEND REGISTRATION. IF YOU MISS IT YOU CANNOT COMPETE!

 

After Registration
Please stay in or around the building & be aware that you will be called back stage by category with enough time to tan & pump up - we will have mirrors & some weights backstage - please feel free to bring power bands or other warm up tools with you.

Photography & Videography

Contact us for details of this year’s arrangements.


Dave Warner
NABBA Northern Ireland UK Representative    

info@nabbani.co.uk

Categories & Criteria

Men's First Timers, Novice, Junior Under 23's, Teens, Masters Over 45's & 55's, Classic Class

Bodybuilders are judged on the OVERALL QUALITY of their muscular development.

Mass: The perception of muscular size has been the foundation for bodybuilding since the beginning of the sport. Yet, mass is only a merit when accompanied by the remaining qualities.

Definition: Indicates the degree of muscularity brought about by the absence of subcutaneous body fat. Defined muscularity is necessary to fully display the development of the physique. Definition is only of value when it allows massively developed muscles to be displayed.

Proportion: Implies an even balance of muscular development in comparison to each muscle group. Theoretically, a "strong body part" can be just as detrimental as a "weak body part". Bodybuilders must strive for equal development between all muscle groups. Symmetry A misnomer, is commonly used to depict "proportion" or expressed to indicate an aesthetic quality throughout the physique. Although, in its strictest definition, symmetry denotes equal development of muscularity on both right and left sides of the physique.

Stage Presence Includes posing performance and other factors influencing general appearance such as skin tone, grooming, charisma, and poise. Effective stage presentation is essential to display the physique to its maximum potential.

Attire: Athletes are required to wear suitably fitting trunks no restriction on colour or material / shorts or underwear are not permitted.

​Novices must not have previously been placed in the top 3 in a NABBA Area novice contest, or have won ANY OPEN contest.

All Men's Bodybuilding Classes will follow the same structure:

Round 1 Quarter Turns

Competitors will line up at the posing line with a front stance. The judges will instruct competitors with "Quarter Turn To The Right" until they are facing the judges once more. The athletes may be split and/or rearranged to allow accurate assessment by all judges. Competitors will hold each stance to demonstrate balance, symmetry and proportion along with the mass and condition of their physiques. This important round will have significance when the judges are determining the initial "call-outs" for round 3.

Round 2 Routine

Each competitor will then be required to do an individual posing routine. This is the opportunity to display their physiques to the judges without distraction. It is advised that athletes present themselves with confidence and control of their physique. Displaying each muscle group to the best of their ability. Athletes can use mandatory and non-mandatory poses of their choice.

Routines to be a minimum of 45 seconds, (Area Competitions can go up to 60 seconds max. dependant on amount of competitors in each class,) However you must check with your Area Rep who will inform you of the times for their show.

45 seconds max is designated time for the Britain Finals, England and Universe Competitions.

Round 3 Comparisons

Competitors will be called back on to stage. Competitor numbers will be called requesting them to come front / centre stage in small groups of 4 - 6, known as the "call-outs".

 

The judges will request the following poses.

​1. Abs and Thighs

2. Lat Spread

3. Front Double Bicep

4. Side Chest (any side)

5. Side Tricep (any side)

Turn to face the rear

6. Rear Lat Spread showing Hamstring and Calf

7. Rear Double Bicep

Turn to face the front

8. Most Muscular

Athletes who are not in the line-up are asked to adopt the "front stance" with no posing.

Pose-down & Awards

All athletes may be asked to perform 30 seconds of free posing - then assemble in a line at back of stage for placement awards. (This may take place after preliminary rounds of another class)

Please note that classes are non refundable once purchased.  

Men's Sports Physique Open & Over 45's

Do Not confuse with Men's Classique Physique which is a completely separate NABBA category)

Includes: Open and Over 45's

Attire - Competitors will wear "Sports shorts". Mid-thigh max length in length and approx. 2 cm below belly button, no skin-tight shorts and no advertisement should be on the shorts (manufacturer’s logo is acceptable) One Colour Preferred.

shorts.jpg

i walk.jpg

 

This Class will have the following structure:

Round 1 Quarter Turns

The general presentation during the quarter turns will consist of competitors presenting themselves with poise, self-confidence and posture. Although they will be in fixed but not flexed stance. The judges are looking for a "total package" and competitors are warned against adopting any stance that tries to emulate too much muscularity.

Round 2 - I Walk

Competitor’s will perform an I walk individually. Starting point at back of stage plinth facing judges table, head judge will request you to walk forward to stage front, stop front stage then be requested to rotate right, left side pose, to rear pose, right side pose, to front pose, then to face rear of stage and walk back, once a rear of stage turn to front again, head judge will then ask you to return to line up in numerical order, I walk to music of the DJ’s choice.

Round 3 Comparisons

Competitors will be called back on to stage. Competitor numbers will be called requesting them to come front / centre stage in small groups of 4- 6 athletes.

 

The judges will request the following poses:

​1. Front Biceps
2. Left side oblique
3. Back Biceps
4. Right side Oblique
5. Front favourite pose  

Athletes who are not in the line-up are asked to adopt the "front stance" with no posing.

Pose-down & Awards

All athletes may be asked to perform 30 seconds of free posing - then assemble in a line at back of stage for placement awards. (This may take place after preliminary rounds of another class)

 

Please note that classes are non refundable once purchased.  

Men's Class 3, 2 & 1

Class 3 -  Mr Class 3 height Up to and including (1.72 m)

Class 2 - Mr Class 2 height Over (1.72M) up to and including (1.79M)

Class 1 - Mr Class 1 height Over (1.79m)

 

Bodybuilders are judged on the OVERALL QUALITY of their muscular development.

Mass: The perception of muscular size has been the foundation for bodybuilding since the beginning of the sport. Yet, mass is only a merit when accompanied by the remaining qualities.

Definition: Indicates the degree of muscularity brought about by the absence of subcutaneous body fat. Defined muscularity is necessary to fully display the development of the physique. Definition is only of value when it allows massively developed muscles to be displayed.

Proportion: Implies an even balance of muscular development in comparison to each muscle group. Theoretically, a "strong body part" can be just as detrimental as a "weak body part". Bodybuilders must strive for equal development between all muscle groups. Symmetry A misnomer, is commonly used to depict "proportion" or expressed to indicate an aesthetic quality throughout the physique. Although, in its strictest definition, symmetry denotes equal development of muscularity on both right and left sides of the physique.

Stage Presence Includes posing performance and other factors influencing general appearance such as skin tone, grooming, charisma, and poise. Effective stage presentation is essential to display the physique to its maximum potential.

Attire: Athletes are required to wear suitably fitting trunks no restriction on colour or material / shorts or underwear are not permitted.

​Novices must not have previously been placed in the top 3 in a NABBA Area novice contest, or have won ANY OPEN contest.

All Men's Bodybuilding Classes will follow the same structure:

Round 1 Quarter Turns

Competitors will line up at the posing line with a front stance. The judges will instruct competitors with "Quarter Turn To The Right" until they are facing the judges once more. The athletes may be split and/or rearranged to allow accurate assessment by all judges. Competitors will hold each stance to demonstrate balance, symmetry and proportion along with the mass and condition of their physiques. This important round will have significance when the judges are determining the initial "call-outs" for round 3.

Round 2 Routine

Each competitor will then be required to do an individual posing routine. This is the opportunity to display their physiques to the judges without distraction. It is advised that athletes present themselves with confidence and control of their physique. Displaying each muscle group to the best of their ability. Athletes can use mandatory and non-mandatory poses of their choice.

Routines to be a minimum of 45 seconds, (Area Competitions can go up to 60 seconds max. dependant on amount of competitors in each class,) However you must check with your Area Rep who will inform you of the times for their show.

45 seconds max is designated time for the Britain Finals, England and Universe Competitions.

Round 3 Comparisons

Competitors will be called back on to stage. Competitor numbers will be called requesting them to come front / centre stage in small groups of 4 - 6, known as the "call-outs".

 

The judges will request the following poses.

​1. Abs and Thighs

2. Lat Spread

3. Front Double Bicep

4. Side Chest (any side)

5. Side Tricep (any side)

Turn to face the rear

6. Rear Lat Spread showing Hamstring and Calf

7. Rear Double Bicep

Turn to face the front

8. Most Muscular

Athletes who are not in the line-up are asked to adopt the "front stance" with no posing.

Pose-down & Awards

All athletes may be asked to perform 30 seconds of free posing - then assemble in a line at back of stage for placement awards. (This may take place after preliminary rounds of another class)

Please note that classes are non refundable once purchased.  

Classic Bodybuilding

The Classic Bodybuilding category in NABBA is designed to celebrate physiques reminiscent of the Golden Era of bodybuilding (1960s-1980s). This division is about more than just size—it prioritizes symmetry, shape, and aesthetic flow over extreme mass or ultra-conditioned, grainy looks.

 

Judging Priorities

  • Symmetry & Proportion

    • The ideal Classic Bodybuilding physique showcases balanced muscle development with no overpowering body parts

    • Upper and lower body should be in proportion, with well-developed shoulders, chest, back, arms, and legs that complement each other

    • Tapered waistline is essential to maintain a pleasing, aesthetic flow

  • Muscle Development & Density

    • More muscle mass than a Men’s Physique competitor, but less than a Men’s Bodybuilding competitor

    • Full, round muscle bellies with clean, deep muscle separation but without extreme vascularity or grainy conditioning

    • The physique should flow naturally, avoiding an overly thick, dense, or extreme look

  • Conditioning

    • The focus is on athletic, aesthetic conditioning rather than extreme leanness

    • Competitors should be well-conditioned but not overly shredded—grainy, vascular physiques are not rewarded

    • Muscle striations may be visible, but excessive dryness or hardness is not required

  • Presentation & Posing

    • Posing should reflect classic bodybuilding styles, emphasizing lines, symmetry, and grace

    • Competitors will perform in posing trunks that highlight their structure without distraction

    • The ability to showcase aesthetic flow and control in posing will be a key judging factor

 

Ideal Classic Bodybuilding Look

  • Balanced X-frame physique with wide shoulders, a tapered waist, and proportioned legs

  • Full muscle bellies that create a pleasing shape rather than an extreme, blocky build

  • Clean muscle separation without excessive graininess or vascularity

  • Posing that showcases aesthetics and symmetry rather than just size and muscularity

 

This division is for competitors who embrace the classic look of bodybuilding legends—a physique that blends size, shape, symmetry, and flow rather than sheer mass or extreme cuts.

 

Rules Review 2025: There are now no height/weight restrictions in this category.

Miss Trained Figure

The emphasis must be on feminine shape and proportion, while retaining a “trained look” and low body fat levels, but not carrying development or definition to an extreme that could be classed as unfeminine.


Three disciplines are involved and competitors should prepare with diligence for all three.  During the disciplines wearing jewellery and/or shoes is optional.

Presentation will consist of the following:


Round 1 Quarter Turns

The general presentation during the quarter turns will consist of competitors presenting themselves with poise, self-confidence and posture.  Although they will be in a semi tense stance the judges are looking for a “total package” and competitors are warned against adopting any stance that tries to emulate too much muscularity. This is followed by any 1 favourite pose at front, left side, back and finally right side.
 

Round 2 Routine

Routines to be a minimum of 45 seconds, (Area Competitions can go up to 60 seconds max.) However you must check with your area rep who will inform you of the times for that show

45 seconds max is designated time for the Britain Finals and Universe Competitions

Judges are again reminded that however graceful and exciting an individual presentation may be, the most important aspect is the agreed criteria applied to Figure Judging.  Competitors should construct their routines to reflect this.

 

Round 3 Comparisons

Competitors will be called back on to stage. Competitor numbers will be called requesting them to come front / centre stage in small groups of 4 - 6, known as the "call-outs".

The judges will request the following poses from the line-up:


1. Front Double Biceps

2. Side Chest (any side)

3. Side Tricep (any side)

4. Rear Double Biceps showing Calf

5. Abs & Thighs

Athletes who are not in the line-up are asked to adopt the "front stance" with no posing.

Pose-down & Awards

All athletes may be asked to perform 30 seconds of free posing - then assemble in a line at back of stage for placement awards. (This may take place after preliminary rounds of another class)

 

Please note that classes are non refundable once purchased.  

Miss Bikini Open & Over 35's

Attire: One piece or two-piece bikinis are acceptable. One Colour Preferred. Tan: should be natural and even in appearance and not unnaturally dark. Accessories: such as bracelets necklaces rings are expected to be kept to a minimum. Other accessories such as hats, canes etc. are not permitted.  Shoes: Heeled shoes are recommended but not compulsory.

 

Round 1 Quarter Turns

The general presentation during the quarter turns will consist of competitors presenting themselves with poise, self-confidence and posture. Although they will be in fixed but not flexed stance. The judges are looking for a "total package" and competitors are warned against adopting any stance that tries to emulate too much muscularity.

Round 2 -  I Walk

Competitor’s will perform an I walk individually. Starting point at back of stage plinth facing judges table, head judge will request you to walk forward to stage front, stop front stage then be requested to rotate right, left side pose, to rear pose, right side pose, to front pose, then to face rear of stage and walk back, once a rear of stage turn to front again, head judge will then ask you to return to line up in numerical order, I walk to music of the DJ’s choice.

Round 3 - Comparisons: 

Competitors will be called back on to stage. Competitor numbers will be called requesting them to come front / centre stage in small groups of 4- 6.

 

Judges will request the following from the line-up.

1. A pose from the front

2. A pose from left side

3. A pose from the back

4. A pose from the right side

5. One or two for your favourite poses

Athletes who are not in the line-up are asked to remain with no posing.



Pose-down & Awards

All athletes may be asked to perform 30 seconds of free posing - then assemble in a line at back of stage for placement awards. (This may take place after preliminary rounds of another class)

 

Please note that classes are non refundable once purchased.  

Miss Athletic Figure

The definition of this category is to show athletic and feminine development. 


Muscle definition, relating to how lean the muscle is, showing an absence of subcutaneous body fat and water showing muscularity, is an important aspect to cover.  We are not looking for excessive vascularity, extreme striations, or the Athletes to look emaciated. 

Definition is encouraged, but the overall look must be one of a healthy, toned, feminine look.  The way that the physique is displayed is extremely important to include the above rather than displaying the Athlete as a mini physique competitor.

Symmetry and balance, showing equal balance in muscular development and muscle definition in both the top and bottom parts of the Athletes physique, is also important.  Stage presence and the overall presentation of the Athletes physique have become extremely important in the toned class, as it will be in the new “Athletic” class.  Confidence, poise, skin tone, suit selection and execution of quarter turns will be taken into account and is often, where the standard is high, a determining factor in many Judges eyes.

Judges are not looking for large deltoid or arm development, sweeping quadriceps or a thick back, but displaying enough muscle to maintain an athletic, healthy and feminine appearance, an Athlete that works out with serious intentions.

In conclusion, this category is the result of many Athletes developing on their bodybuilding journey.  Feminine and an athletic healthy appearance, coupled with stage presence will give an Athlete over one that is purely concerned with their level of definition.

Presentation will consist of the following:


Round 1 Quarter Turns

The general presentation during the quarter turns will consist of competitors presenting themselves with poise, self-confidence and posture.  Although they will be in a semi tense stance the judges are looking for a “total package” and competitors are warned against adopting any stance that tries to emulate too much muscularity. This is followed by any 1 favourite pose at front, left side, back and finally right side.
 

Round 2 Routine
 

Routines to be a minimum of 45 seconds, (Area Competitions can go up to 60 seconds max.) However you must check with your area rep who will inform you of the times for that show

45 seconds max is designated time for the Britain Finals and Universe Competitions

Judges are again reminded that however graceful and exciting an individual presentation may be, the most important aspect is the agreed criteria applied to Figure Judging.  Competitors should construct their routines to reflect this.

 

Round 3 Comparisons

Competitors will be called back on to stage. Competitor numbers will be called requesting them to come front / centre stage in small groups of 4 - 6, known as the "call-outs".

The judges will request the following poses from the line-up:


1. Front Double Biceps

2. Side Chest (any side)

3. Side Tricep (any side)

4. Rear Double Biceps showing Calf

5. Abs & Thighs

Athletes who are not in the line-up are asked to adopt the "front stance" with no posing.

Pose-down & Awards

All athletes may be asked to perform 30 seconds of free posing - then assemble in a line at back of stage for placement awards. (This may take place after preliminary rounds of another class)

 

Please note that classes are non refundable once purchased.  

Miss Toned & Novice Toned Figure

The total package of the “Toned” Miss Figure Class should display an athletic level of development presenting a balanced, symmetrical developed figure, considering the condition of the skin and the skin tone, with the ability to present confidence, poise and grace.

Judging criteria will be for a “Toned” Figure and not “physique” or “trained” Figure category. This means muscularity, vascular, muscular definition and/or diet leanness will not be considered acceptable. 

Competitors will be assessed as to the level of overall tone, achieved through athletic endeavours.  The figure should have a round and firm appearance with small amount of body fat.  Competitors cannot be excessively muscular and should be free from deep muscle separation and /or striations.

The Head Judge will make considerations as to whether or not to remove any competitor that displays a look that is “too hard”.  In this instance, anyone that is considered too hard for the “Toned” Figure, will be given the opportunity to enter the Ladies Miss Athletic category.
 

Presentation will consist of the following:


Round 1 Quarter Turns

The general presentation during the quarter turns will consist of competitors presenting themselves with poise, self-confidence and posture.  Although they will be in a semi tense stance the judges are looking for a “total package” and competitors are warned against adopting any stance that tries to emulate too much muscularity. This is followed by any 1 favourite pose at front, left side, back and finally right side.

Round 2 Routine


Each competitor will then be required to do an individual posing routine. This is the opportunity to display their figure to the judges without distraction. It is advised that athletes present themselves with confidence and control. Judges are again reminded that however graceful and exciting an individual presentation may be, the most important aspect is the agreed criteria applied to Figure Judging.  Competitors should construct their routines to reflect this.

 

Routines to be a minimum of 45 seconds, (Area Competitions can go up to 60 seconds max.) However you must check with your area rep who will inform you of the times for that show

45 seconds max is designated time for the Britain Finals and Universe Competitions.

Round 3 Comparisons

Competitors will be called back on to stage. Competitor numbers will be called requesting them to come front / centre stage in small groups of 4 - 6, known as the "call-outs".

 

The judges will request the following poses from the line-up.

1. Pose from the front with your hands above your head.

2. A pose from your left side.

3. Pose from the back with your hands above your head.

4. A pose from your right side.

5. One or two of your favourite poses

Athletes who are not in the line-up are asked to adopt the "front stance" with no posing.

Pose-down & Awards

All athletes may be asked to perform 30 seconds of free posing - then assemble in a line at back of stage for placement awards. (This may take place after preliminary rounds of another class)

Note:

Novices athletes must not have placed in the top 3 when competing previously at any other novice contest or have won ANY OPEN contest.

2025 Application

For competing athletes please complete the form below to submit your entry

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Athlete Entry Fee

£51.75

Entry Fee for 1 Category as chosen below.  If entering 2 Categories please add each Category to your Cart before Checkout.

 

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