Bikini Guidelines

ANBF Sanctioned

The Bikini division includes group comparisons and individual presentations, where competitors wear two-piece suits and clear high-heeled shoes. Suit color is flexible, and crystal decorations are permitted. Please note, thong or T-back style suits are not allowed. Jewelry is acceptable. We emphasize professionalism and sportsmanship; any overtly sexual posing, inappropriate behavior for younger audiences, or disruption to the event may lead to disqualification. Our aim is to maintain a respectful and dignified environment for all athletes and spectators.

Division Overview

In the Bikini Division, judges seek a well-toned, healthy body that showcases symmetry, a balanced build, and a proportionate figure, enhanced by a poised and confident demeanor on stage. Elements such as the fitting of the attire, hair styling, makeup, and even the skin’s tone and texture are key to the overall impression. It is crucial for competitors in this category to avoid overly pronounced muscle definition, significant striations, or excessive bulk.

The quintessential Bikini Division look is a delicate mix of light muscularity and a softer overall physique, setting it apart from Figure or Feminine Physique categories. Judges look for gentle curves in the shoulders, a good development in the legs, and well-shaped glutes. The abdominal area should be well-defined but not excessively so. Additionally, a noticeable and well-defined Glute/Hamstring tie-in is sought after. This combination of subtle muscle definition and size captures the essence of what the Bikini Division represents.

Judging Criteria

This division emphasizes a balanced and well-proportioned physique, combined with an overall healthy and fit appearance.
Muscularity: The focus is on a lean, firm physique with a moderate level of muscularity. Excessive muscularity is not the goal; instead, the emphasis is on a more feminine appearance.
Conditioning: Conditioning is welcomed but the competitor needs to still have a feminine look with appropriate curves. Excessive conditioning will be scored down.
Symmetry and Proportion: Judges look for symmetry and proportionality in the physique. This includes a balanced appearance between the upper and lower body, and a well-defined waistline.
Stage Presence: Presentation is critical. Competitors are judged on their confidence, poise, and the ability to present themselves in a way that highlights their best features.
Posing and Walk: The ability to pose and walk in a manner that is both graceful and flattering to the physique is essential. Competitors should be able to transition smoothly between poses and convey their personality on stage.
Competition Attire and Aesthetics: The suit should be well-fitting and flattering. It’s important to choose a color and style that complements your skin tone and physique.
Makeup and Hair: Professional, stage-appropriate makeup and hair are important. These should enhance your natural features without overpowering your overall look.
Tanning: A smooth, even competition tan is crucial to highlight muscle definition and stage presence.

Group Comparisons

During the group comparisons, competitors within a class execute 1/4 turns collectively, as instructed by the head judge, to showcase their physiques from various angles including front, side, and back. If necessary, competitors should move their hair aside to ensure a clear view of their back during rear poses, placing their hands on their front thighs. While competitors may arch their backs, leaning forward is not allowed. Failure to adhere to these posing guidelines may lead to lower scores from the judges. Feet positioning should be roughly shoulder-width apart without crossing. Additionally, competitors will be asked to walk towards the back of the stage to hold their back poses collectively, then turn halfway to face the audience and maintain their front poses as a group. Following this, the head judge will direct them to advance a few steps towards the front of the stage.

Front Pose

One hand placed on the hip on front poses, either leg is acceptable
The opposite arm shall hang down below the hip in a natural position
Lats should be open but not flared as in figure poses
Athlete number should be placed on hip in plain view of the judges
A slight twist is allowed as long as both hips and shoulders are visible from the front.

Side Poses

Hips should face the side of the stage.
Upper body can be angled slightly towards the front, but not excessively.
One hand should be anchored on a hip, with the choice of hand left to athlete preference.
Feet placement options include having feet together with the or one leg extended out to a reasonable distance.
Athletes should select the side pose variation that best fits their physique.
The 'teacup' pose is not allowed.
Athletes must avoid entering the space of other competitors.

Back Pose

Heels spaced up to shoulder width apart
Lats will be open but not flared as in Figure or Women’s Physique
Hands shall be placed on the thighs on the back pose
Hair shall be swept to the front
A slight forward lean is acceptable; however, refrain from standing in a wide straddle or bending excessively forward in an obscene manner

Individual Presentations

ANBF will implement a 10ft wide box or rectangle on stage for all presentations, routines, and walks.
This restriction ensures optimal lighting, efficient use of time, and better photos and videos.
The promoter decides the length of each routine, walk, or presentation.
Some promoters may opt to have Stage Presentation Walks before the group comparisons for divisions that do not require a full routine.

Music for Routines and Presentations:

Bodybuilding and Classic Physique athletes must submit their own music for routines. If they do not, they will pose to house music or music chosen by the promoter.
All other divisions will perform their walks and routines to house music or music selected by the promoter unless specified by the promoter. Some ANBF events will request all athletes in all divisions to submit music for presentation/routines/walks.

Note: If a competitor has already performed a stage walk or routine in a previous class, they will not do the stage walk or routine a second time. If the competitor has crossed over to another division, Figure to Women’s Physique for instance, the competitor may perform their walk/routine in subsequent class.