Bikini Competition – Things you need to learn about your stage performance 

Whether you’ve competed before in a bikini competition or you’re planning to compete soon, you must be wondering: “What are the judges looking for when you step on stage?” 

This is why we are here to help you understand and learn your posing routine better in posing bikini suits. Whether you are competing in a bikini competition or fitness competition, knowing how to pose well can automatically increase your competition score. 

Bikini and fitness competition modeling is all about showing your confident and graceful side. The pro bodybuilder Ed White once said, “Stage posing is like serving food – even if it tastes great, if not served well, nobody will be impressed. 

Remember, in bikini competition and fitness competitions, only about 40% is about your body shape. If you don’t like that, maybe bodybuilding is a better choice for you.

So, before competing, make sure you learn about posing. Different competitions and federations have different rules for how you should walk and pose. Watch videos of past competitions and understand how your division is judging competitors. 

Here are a few things you need to know:

1. First impressions can make or break your score 

 When you step onto the stage, the first impression can make or break your entire scoreboard. The judges are already sizing you up, forming their first impressions. It’s like they say, you can never get a second chance to make your first impression. So, make sure your first steps on the stage showcase confidence and grace. 

From the moment you’re in view, your smile should be super catchy and natural, your posture should be impeccable, and your attitude and sass need to be on point. Many competitors focus solely on their poses for the center stage but overlook the importance of their walk and transitions. Do not make the same mistake. If you nail your first few steps on the stage, your entire stage performance will become a big hit!

2. Consider the judges’ perspective

The judges are only a few feet away from the stage, which means their view is a lot different than what you see in the mirror while practicing your stage walk or poses. What looks perfectly symmetrical from the stage point of view, might not look the same for you and this is why you need to be extra careful. Be extra careful when you are doing certain poses like bending over or stretching your body and muscles. 

You want the judges to see only your plus points and nothing more. Try your best not to reveal more than necessary. In order to make sure your posing routine poses are on point, coaches recommend practicing on a platform or hiring competition trainers or coaches to observe from a lower point.

3. Embrace a natural stance

Trust us, judges will appreciate a more relaxed and authentic presentation. They do not love a lot of unnatural, stiff, or exaggerated bodybuilder poses. Instead, they prefer competitors to stand and perform their routine with confidence, maintaining a strong core and keeping their arms & shoulders relaxed. 

We know…we know…it can be pretty damn hard sometimes to hide our flaws with exaggerated poses, it is important to strike the balance between having confidence and uniqueness. Some common things you need to understand are – winged arms, poor posture, forward shoulders, and overly exaggerated poses. The best way to learn is by asking previous competitors and winners of the competition. 

4. It’s important not to rely on poses that were popularized by those trying to hide imperfections

 Some competitors may twist their waists more or bend their hips a little more than needed if they are not comfortable with the way it looks. This is why you do not need to do things you are not comfortable doing. Avoid them at all costs. 

Judges prefer more natural poses with your arms by your side and slightly lifted. This is why for some athletes, posing can be a little tricky so try to stand as normal as you can and try to accentuate your best features. Remember, confidence and presentation play a big role, so don’t feel discouraged if you need to use alternative poses. The main point is to use them only when necessary.

5. Stay true to yourself and be original 

 Now, let’s get one thing straight. You do not need to do certain poses just because other athletes are doing them. You need to be original. Choose a competition walk, posing bikini suits, competition suit, style, and manners that reflect originality and your personality. Even your judges will appreciate it if they see some uniqueness on the stage. 

It does not matter if you are girly, sassy, sexy, or classy (within reason) you need to embrace what feels right for you. This is the only way you will be able to find success in the competition. Offer the judges and contestants something fresh and different to admire! 

And that’s pretty much it. It all can sound very difficult but if you have made up your mind, you will be able to achieve it. 

Good luck ladies, ladies!