For decades the competitive bodybuilding landscape has been defined by the muscular gods who have graced the Olympia stage and the covers of bodybuilding magazines. Arnold Schwarzenegger turned the spotlight on bodybuilding and helped to mold society’s perception of the bodybuilder physique. Maximum muscle development, size and conditioning, along with balance and body symmetry are the ultimate goals in bodybuilding for both men and women.

Then in 2011 the National Physique Committee made a very clever move by establishing the Men’s Physique Division. The Men’s Physique Division is characterized by a well-muscled physique but with a smaller degree of muscularity than what is exemplified in men’s bodybuilding. If you think of a male fitness model, you will have a clearer picture of what is desirable. This is not to say that muscularity is not rewarded, but the hulk-like muscularity that is seen in Mr. Olympia title-holders is not the goal with men’s physique.

Now men have a more attainable goal with the Men’s Physique division, but be prepared to put on some lean muscle mass if you dare to grace the stage. The new Men’s Physique IFBB Pros have sculpted physiques which were certainly not earned by sitting on the couch all day!