What Does It Really Take to Look Like That?
Ever wonder what it takes to become a competitive bodybuilder?
Turns out, it’s part sport, part beauty pageant—minus the sequins and “world peace” speeches, and today is manager David's first competition! You can even watch the judging take place live using the link at the bottom.
To wrap our heads around what the heck it's all about, we reached out to Bruce, a former competitive powerlifter turned physique artist, who's no stranger to the world of stage lights, protein shakes, and extremely dark spray tan.
After six years of chasing PRs, Bruce’s journey took a turn when he got a hernia. Most people would've called it quits. Bruce? He just changed the channel from "lift all the things" to "look good lifting some of the things" while sculpting a physique that's impressive enough to intimidate his bathroom mirror.
How Do Bodybuilders Actually Compete?
Bruce’s last performance took place in the neon lights of Vegas in March. Here, contestants strut their stuff before seven discerning judges who assess symmetry, definition, and that coveted V-shape that’s as elusive as it is enviable.
For men’s physique, it’s down to two poses—front and back—alongside hundreds of others across different divisions hoping to out-pose each other while looking anything but awkward. Just to keep it spicy, every competitor also needs to look like they’re holding exactly zero ounces of water weight.
And for those in open bodybuilding, the stakes get even higher with nine poses set to music. Picture it as an epic, 90-second flex-dance all in the pursuit of bragging rights and a really nice trophy. With over a thousand people in the show and height classes to navigate, it’s a literal field of muscle.
The Breakdown:
The Poses: Competitors master two iconic poses—front and back. Easy, right? Try holding them under bright lights, in tight shorts, hoping you look like a Greek statue and not a stressed-out action figure.
Judging Criteria: Seven judges analyze symmetry, the ideal V-shape, and muscles so lean you appear to have banished water from your body entirely. Think “human raisin” but make it appealing.
Competitor Pool: Picture hundreds of ultra-focused athletes all practicing their flex, each praying that their triceps look slightly better than the next guy’s. (The stakes are high; the shorts are higher.)
Rewards: Trophies, medals, protein bar sponsorships, and possibly a gift card. But the real prize? Finally getting to demolish the cheat meal that's been dancing in your head for months.
Overcoming Stage Fright and Moving On
But let’s rewind for a second. Bruce wasn’t always comfortable in the spotlight. In fact, he actually skipped his high school senior project because of crippling stage fright.
Fast-forward a few years, and here he is, striking poses in front of crowds asking judges to scrutinize every angle of his body. It's giving transformation. Now, Bruce has channeled this experience into helping others through personal training, from high schoolers to 71 year olds helping everyone achieve their goals even if it's just feeling good in their bodies.
What Does It Cost to Compete?
Bruce reflected on the hard cash it takes to get competition ready: A typical prep takes 12 to 16 weeks, and the last week is pure dedication where every gram of food is carefully measured.
Entry Fee: $110 - $150 for each class you want to compete in (because flexing comes at a price).
Coaching: $250 monthly (for accountability, tracking every ounce and millimeter, and handling the logistics of the event).
Spray Tan: $120 - $150 (achieving “bronze statue” status doesn’t come cheap).
Extras: Hotel, food, supplements, and personal training. (It all adds up!)
It’s safe to say the only thing cheaper than your budget would be the piece of fabric you wear on stage.
The Real Rewards (Hint: It’s Not Just the Trophy)
For most competitors, the true reward isn’t the medal, it’s not even the post-competition cheat meal, it's the possibility of going pro and earning some real cash and sponsorships. But for our gym manager David, who’s getting ready to compete today in Auburn, it’s also about proving something to yourself and getting in a level of shape that would make even your fittest Instagram friends jealous.
David’s first competition is today at 4:00, so send some good vibes his way, and tune in here to see the judging unfold.
For those interested in training with a seasoned personal trainer like Bruce, whose first job out of high school was actually personal training, stop by the front desk to find the package that's right for you. You'll never know what you're capable of if you don't try. Get customized training and attention to get you where you want to go fast.
And Speaking of Discipline…
David’s diet has been, let’s just say, highly specialized. As he approached competition day, he’s been on a strict regimen of chicken, peppers, eggs, and sausage, and not a single grain of rice in sight. With a daily intake of 375 grams of protein, only 50-60 grams of carbs, and 85 grams of fat, he's probably ready for a baguette or two.
So, here’s to Bruce and David, showing us the full expression of the human body. Whether you’re aiming for the spotlight, or just want to feel a little lighter in your sneakers, we're here to help. And if David can give up eating anything that sparks joy for months, we can't wait to see what you're capable of.
Flex on,
Your WCF Team
