Star date, September 8, the year 2015. The man himself, Jim Manion makes the announcement so many of us have been waiting to hear. 2016 will usher in the introduction of a new division, the Men's Classic Physique Division. It's about time! With the size of Men's Physique competitors getting larger each year and a desire amongst competitors, fans, and industry aficionados alike to show some leg and do some posing in the division, well now we will get what we have been hoping for. The powers that be realized that with the popularity and evolution of Men's Physique, that this was a necessary and inevitable step. Men's Physique will revert back to it's original intention of a less ripped, smaller, more athletic build while the Classic Physique Division is set to be a mix between Men's Physique and Bodybuilding.
The Classic Physique competitors will wear a spandex short instead of regular posing trunks and will be required to do five poses. The poses are as follows: front double biceps, rear double biceps, abdominals and thighs, side chest, and favorite classic pose. Each competitor will also do a 60 second routine. I wonder how many vacuum poses we will see? Either way this new division should be very exciting and ramp up interest even more.
There will be some differences in how athletes will qualify in route to earning a Pro Card in this division as the first year will be the inaugural year of the division, they will be working to get a roster of IFBB Classic Physique Pro established. Word is, from Mr. Manion of course, is that current IFBB Pros will be allowed to move into this division as well. It will be interesting to see which top guys stay put and who makes the leap. If you by chance will be considering whether or not this is the right place for you but are unsure which is the best fit, no worries. My understanding is that at the regional shows you will be allowed to crossover between Men's Physique and Classic Physique, thus allowing you to test the waters to see where you fall.
Now if you have legs you can show them off, no more hiding. The Golden Era meets the 21st Century. 2016 is shaping up to be a year of some interesting transition and excitement for the NPC and IFBB. Are you ready? You can visit the NPC News Online website for more information on the division rules and such will be forthcoming.
