NPC WOMEN’S FITNESS CONTEST

 The judging criteria for fitness contests is based on the two Physique/Swimsuit Rounds being worth 2/3 of the total score, while the Fitness Routine round is worth 1/3 of the total score. Each round is judged separately, with the Judges handing in a score for each round. That means there will be a total of three scores handed in Prejudging for each competitor. The following is a description of each round:

 PREJUDGING ROUND I: TWO-PIECE SWIMSUIT

Each height class (if applicable) will be brought out separately in a lineup in their two-piece swimsuits (thong or t-back swimsuits cannot be worn) with high heels to perform quarter turns as directed by the Head Judge. The Judges may ask for certain contestants to be placed next to other contestants. The Judges will assess the overall physique for degree of athleticism, proportion and skin tone. The Judges will be scoring the degree of athleticism by assessing the degree of firmness, symmetry, proportion and the overall healthy physical appearance including complexion, poise and overall presentation. Muscle tone should appear firm and round with a small amount of body fat over the muscle. Muscle striations and extreme definition or leanness should be avoided.

 PREJUDGING ROUND 2: FITNESS ROUTINE

Every competitor will perform a maximum two-minute, individually choreographed routine. Judges will be looking for style, personality, athletic coordination, strength moves, flexibility, endurance and overall performance. Contestants may wear tennis shoes and a fitness outfit of their choice. Contestants should give special attention to their apparel since it too will be judged. Contrary to popular opinion, you do not have to be a gymnast to do well in this round. Routines may include aerobics, dance, gymnastics or other demonstrations of athletic talent. Contestants are encouraged to perform a high-energy routine giving special attention to fluid execution of movements, difficulty, diversity, audience awareness, presentation, showmanship, personality and creativity while accentuating the best aspects of their physique. Props may be used if they can be carried on stage by the athlete and approved by the promoter in advance. High-energy music is also an important element.

 PREJUDGING ROUND 3: FINAL ASSESSMENT/ONE-PIECE SWIMSUIT

All contestants will be brought back out in their one-piece swimsuits (thong or t-back swimsuits cannot be worn) with high heels to perform quarter turns as directed by the Head Judge. The Judges may ask for certain contestants to be placed next to other contestants. The judging criteria are the same as in Round 1.

 FINAL SCORING

During all three rounds, the Judges will place each athlete from first through last place in each round. After each round, the Judges will turn in their scores for that particular round. Once all three rounds are completed, the scores are added together and averaged as one for each competitor's score. The Judges will be scoring the overall physique and performance during Prejudging. The only judging during the Evening Performance is of the height class winners (if applicable) for the overall award. No scores or placements will change after Prejudging.

 FINALS

During the Finals, all competitors will be introduced in their two-piece swimsuits and high heels and perform their fitness routine. The top 5 place winners in each height class (if applicable) will be awarded trophies. To determine the Overall Champion (if applicable), the Judges will score the height class winners' routines, then these women will be brought out in their two-piece swimsuits and high heels to perform quarter turns as directed by the Head Judge. Criteria for assessing the physiques will be the same as Prejudging: Round I. Their scores will be tallied and the Overall Champion will be selected.

 SPECIAL NOTE: The focus of the fitness competition is on health and fitness and is intended to provide an alternative for athletic women who train but do not wish to gain muscle size or other requirements necessary for bodybuilding competitions.