How to start Bikini Bodybuilding?

Hello ladies! Planning to compete in bodybuilding competitions? This is the best time to start!

Hello ladies! Planning to compete in bodybuilding competitions? This is the best time to start!

The beginning of this journey can be overwhelming, where to start, who to talk to…etc. This is why this blog is the perfect place to learn from.

Trust us - it's possible to make yourself the perfect version you have always wanted! Let's go through the basis of competing together. 

Step 1: Choosing the right federation

Before starting the competition prep, you need to decide which federation you want to compete in. Each federation has different requirements, posing routines, and rules to follow to win the competition. 

Let's check out the most common federation - 

• NPC (National Physique Committee) - NPC is the largest bodybuilding federation in the world, and we are sure you have seen competitors competing in it. The federation is not drug tested, but you can also compete naturally. If you decide to compete with NPC, be prepared to compete against those who have had some extra help to enhance their performances. If you plan to compete for a career, NPC can be the perfect federation to earn your pro card and open lots of opportunities for you.
• OCB (Organization for Competitive Bodybuilders) - If you are looking for a natural federation, OCB is the best pick. Every competitor gets tested for drugs and performance-enhancement supplements like steroids, stimulants, or SARMs. OCB works best for new competitors if you want a level playing field where everyone is natural. 
• WBFF (World Beauty Fitness and Fashion) - The most creative and fashionable federation of all. Here competitors come with a blend of bodybuilding and fashion. Think of a fashion show that mixed with athletic figures. There are multiple outfit change rounds, including evening gowns, bodybuilding bikinis, theme-inspired outfits, and more. If you have a unique style, WBFF is the perfect pick for you. But keep in mind that WBFF falls on the pricier side when competing. Everything needs to be perfect. 

Step 2: Judge your starting point

After you choose the right federation, it is time to take a good & hard look at your starting point, both financially and physically. 

Physically, you need to know where you are in terms of muscle mass or body fat percentage. This can be tricky if you are a first-time competitor. A lot of gyms and nutritional stores will offer you full body scans, these scans will help you give a rough idea of your current state. Also, track your progress regularly. 

Next comes training. Competing in bodybuilding competitions requires you to be more than just lean, it takes muscle development. Especially in areas like your glutes, shoulders, and quads. But if you want the title of winning a competition, you need to be consistent with weightlifting. But being a first-time competitor, you need to work even harder on building muscle before entering a competition. 

Step 3: Be honest with your finances

Now, let's talk money. The bodybuilding industry is an expensive sport, even without hiring a coach. Here are a few things to keep in your budget: 

• Gym membership
• Federation membership fee ($130 plus)
• Show registrations ($100 plus) 
• Supplements 
• Bodybuilding bikini suit ($300 plus) & accessories ($50 plus) 
• Tanning ($50 plus)
• Show videos and pictures

Above all these, your expenses can double if you hire a coach. A good coach will guide you through every step of your journey. From training to learning stage posing. But it's okay if you can't afford one, you can still succeed in the competition. 

Step 4: Create realistic goals for yourself

Let's be honest, bodybuilding sports are a long game. If you start with a higher fat percentage, it will take time to get in the right shape before you step on the stage. This process can not be rushed. If you lack muscle mass, gaining will also take a lot of time and then cutting before your show. 

The key is to give yourself enough time during competition prep. If you rush this process, you may get burned up before the big day even comes. Competing takes a lot of dedication. 

Step 5: Keep learning & stay consistent

Whether you decide to hire a coach or not, you will need to find the right discipline and consistency for competing. The bodybuilding bikini competition requires athletes to train strictly and maintain proper nutrition and recovery. If you plan to go ahead without a coach, get help from online websites and YouTube videos. 

In conclusion, bodybuilding bikini competitions can transform not just your body but also your mindset. The most important thing is that you need to enjoy the process and set yourself up for success. Remember, you do not have to have everything figured out, it can take days, weeks, or even months. 

Good luck, ladies! You’ve got this!