What does “Figure” mean?

• Figure competitors’ physiques are often times to similar to Fitness competitors but with modified poses in certain organizations. There is no “routine” and only “quarter turns.”
• Competitors must wear a two piece suit and 4 to 6 inch clear, high heels and should have suits with rhinestones, designs and fitted to their figure.
• A Figure competitor’s physique is unique in that it should flow with no striations. Muscles should be full and well conditioned but not as “hard” or “etched” as a body builder. Additionally, a Figure competitor should have consistency from top to bottom, front to back with separation of muscle groups but no striations within the muscle itself.

Unique Needs:

• Tanning − tan needs to be darker for a Figure competitor, but not as dark as a body builder. See our Partner Page for more information on our tanning resources!
• Suit selection − there is very specific criteria when it comes to your suit for a competition. STS will provide you with the specific guidelines, recommendations on where to purchase your suit and assist in final selection. A Figure competitor will need to have the appropriate uniform including a two-piece suit with rhinestones (which can range between $300 to $600+) and 4 to 6 inch clear, high heels.
• In addition to guiding you through the suit selection process, STS will provide coaching in posing, walking and “presence” to ensure you have the ultimate impression on the judges.

Diet/Fitness Planning:

• Just like any competitor, diet is critical to success. For a Fitness competitor, their eating plans are not quite as stringent as a body builder. A general range for a Figure competitor is 8 to 12% body fat. In order to achieve the right look for a Fitness competitor, we manipulate carbs, sodium and sometimes water depending on the needs and response from the client.
• From a training plan perspective, we are striving for full shoulders, glutes and hamstrings with minimal chest and arm work (to ensure we keep the consistent flow with no striations).

Timeframe:
STS is a firm believer in getting into competitive shape the healthy way. Although each individual is unique in how they lose body fat, a general range for a Figure competitor is 8 to 12% body fat. If you have not competed before or you are out competitive shape, a 16 to 20 week window is a healthy timeframe to properly prepare for a competition. We recommend our clients stay within 4% of their ideal competition weight which allows the muscle, fascia and skin to be tighter and she doesn’t have to diet as hard. If you are within that 4% range, an 8 to 10 week window is ideal to prepare for a competition.

Client Type:
STS works with clients of every age group and fitness level. If you have the desire and determination to compete, we are the right partner for you. We have clients that are repeat champions as well as first-timers. The experience and journey to achieve your ultimate physical shape can be just as rewarding as taking 1st place and we consider it a privilege to partner with you to achieve YOUR goals.

Trainers
STS Trainers specializing in Figure preparation: Kelli, Mark, Matt, Mindy, Scott, Wes,