Fitness and figure competition

In the older Fitness discipline, female competitors showcase their physiques (which are less massive than bodybuilders') while performing a demanding, time-limited, aerobic/dance routine.

Body building has traditionally been seen as a male-appropriate activity, and beauty pageants were the main way for women to compete.

[6] It was a qualifier for, and precursor to, the 2003 International Federation of BodyBuilding & Fitness Figure Olympia in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Physique guidelines for fitness competitions typically suggest a small amount of muscular mass; clear separations between muscle groups (but, no visible striations); and, leanness.

The competitors are judged solely on muscular symmetry and definition; as in fitness shows, muscle size is downplayed.

In the symmetry round, the competitors appear on stage in high-heeled shoes and a one-piece swimsuit in a side-by-side line that faces the judges.

They execute a series of quarter-turns to the right, allowing the judges to view and compare them from all sides for symmetry, presentation, and other aesthetic qualities such as skin tone, hair, make-up, and stylishness of clothing.

In the next round (the group comparisons), competitors return in high heels and a two-piece bathing suit, executing a series of quarter-turns.

Included in either of these rounds, or perhaps just the evening show, the competitors come out individually on stage for a model walk where they are judged on presentation, gracefulness, confidence, poise, and professionalism.

Rapidly growing, bikini category looks for lean and firm physique and "competitors are scored on proportion, symmetry, balance, shape and skin tone".

Some competitions depending on the organization for instance NPC or IFBB will require the use of high heels or bare feet.