Tags: Competition
Bodybuilding has different competition classes that clearly differ in goals, appearance, and judging. The comparison between Men's Open Bodybuilding and Classic Physique is particularly common.
Men's Open Bodybuilding
- No weight limit
- Maximum muscle mass is clearly the main focus – however, symmetry, hardness and conditioning also play an important role.
- Classic mandatory poses, the focus is primarily on pure muscle mass and density.
- Posing: very skimpy briefs to show as much muscle as possible.
- The target audience is mostly hardcore fans.
Classic Physique
- A fixed weight limit applies depending on body size.
- The focus is on aesthetics: symmetry, broad shoulders, a wide collarbone and a narrow waist.
- Mandatory poses with a focus on "Classic Posing", heavily inspired by the Arnold Schwarzenegger era
- Slightly longer posing slip compared to the Open class
- It appeals to a significantly broader target group, as the goal – a Classic Physique physique – seems more realistic to many in the fitness and strength training sector.
Conclusion
While Men's Open Bodybuilding focuses uncompromisingly on maximum muscle mass, Classic Physique emphasizes classic aesthetics. Both classes require discipline, a clear training plan, targeted muscle recovery, and a deep understanding of bodybuilding – but differ significantly in appearance, demands, and target audience.
