If you’re a bodybuilder looking to complete in a show, it’s important to realize bodybuilding it not just a sport which hands the prize to the man with the best physique. Many times, lesser bodybuilders have left with the trophy, leaving superior bodybuilders (with inferior presentation skills) in second place. Everything you present onstage is part of an overall package. The muscle you carry is just a part of this package. Posing music, body type, as well as levels of dryness and conditioning all play roles in presenting your overall package. Let’s look at some common factors you can use to your advantage.

Posing music

Are you a short and stocky bodybuilder with what is called a mesomorphic frame? If so, you’ll want to select powerful music which fits the theme of your physique. Some AC/DC or DMX, depending upon your style and the types of fans you expect to encounter, can guide that selection. Ectomorphic bodybuilders, or those with skinny or narrow physiques, will want to select posing music which is more artistic. Beethoven or Mozart projects an air of grace and symmetry – something that those with thinner body types need to possess as well. Decades ago, nobody wanted to be the band that followed Jimi Hendrix. You don’t want to choose a heavy metal song and end up placed between two mesomorphic bodybuilders who also choose heavy metal. Endomorphs, or those who are very thick but hold some fat, should emphasize carefree, fun music which endears them to the crowd and judges. Personality counts!

Challenges during posedown

Shorter bodybuilders should never challenge a larger competitor to a pose in which they are equals. All it does is work to reinforce a mindset that the bigger guy sis better. Any time you are up against a taller man, go into a pose which shrinks you, so your wideness will be emphasized. He will look narrower against you. For taller, thinner competitors, it’s a bad idea to stand next to a man with wider clavicles (usually seen on mesomorphs and endomorphs) and trade most muscular shots. Instead, dazzle them with a side triceps or side chest/biceps, to show off your conditioning and neutralize their wideness advantage.

Water & Conditioning

If you are very well-conditioned and very dry, use it to your advantage. Anytime a competitor strikes a pose (such as a most muscular) where you know you look worlds more shredded, take advantage. Hit the same pose and let the judges and audience see just how much more ripped you really are. On the other hand, if your conditioning is poor or you are holding water, try to avoid standing next to the most diced guys and focus more upon winning over the judges with your own size and thickness.

Every competitor is imperfect. It’s those men and women who are able to most exploit the weaknesses of their competitors, while at the same time emphasizing their own strengths, who will be the most successful. Acknowledging your own flaws can be tough – especially in the fragile state of your ego come contest day – but it must be done.

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