Want to step on stage in the Wellness division but not sure where to start? Let's break down everything you need to know about this rapidly growing division in bodybuilding competitions.
Wellness Competition Guide

Think of Wellness as the perfect middle ground between Bikini and Figure divisions. It's designed for athletes with:
- More developed lower bodies
- Athletic upper body development
- Natural curves and muscle mass
- Strong quad and glute development
- Balanced overall package
A perfect wellness competition look isn’t complete without the right suit—explore Saleyla’s collection for a stunning stage presence.
NPC Wellness Competition Judging Criteria
Here's exactly what judges look for:
Physical Assessment (70% of Score)
- Lower body development
- Glute-ham tie-in
- Quad sweep
- Upper body balance
- Overall symmetry
Stage Presence (30% of Score)
- Confidence
- Presentation
- Posing execution
- Overall impact
- Professional appearance
How Much Muscle Do You Need for Wellness?
Let's get specific about muscle development requirements:
Lower Body
- Significant quad development
- Full, rounded glutes
- Developed hamstrings
- Visible muscle separation
- Natural shape maintenance
Upper Body
- Athletic shoulder caps
- Visible back definition
- Moderate arm development
- Tight waist
- Natural breast tissue or implants
Training for a Wellness Competition
Lower Body Focus (60% of Training)
- Heavy compound movements
- Progressive overload
- Multiple leg days weekly
- Targeted glute work
- Quad-specific training
Upper Body Maintenance (40% of Training)
- Balanced development
- Shoulder emphasis
- Back width training
- Arm conditioning
- Core stability
Competition Suit Selection

Best Suits for Wellness Competition Stage
- Brazilian cut bottom
- Supportive top design
- Strategic crystal placement
- Reinforced connectors
- Proper coverage ratios
Color Selection
- Based on skin tone
- Stage lighting consideration
- Trending competition colors
- Crystal pattern enhancement
- Professional appearance
Competition Preparation Timeline
16-20 Weeks Out
- Begin structured training
- Start nutrition plan
- Order competition suit
- Book posing sessions
- Plan show schedule
12 Weeks Out
- Increase cardio gradually
- Refine nutrition
- Begin posing practice
- Monitor progress photos
- Suit fitting check
8 Weeks Out
- Peak training phase
- Strict nutrition adherence
- Intensive posing practice
- Trial tan session
- Show logistics planning
4 Weeks Out
- Final physique tweaks
- Peak week planning
- Daily posing practice
- Suit final fitting
- Team coordination
Essential Team Members
- Prep Coach
- Posing Coach
- Suit Designer
- Makeup Artist
- Tanning Specialist
Competition Day Essentials
What to Wear and Bring
-
Competition suit
- Cover-up robe
- Stage heels
- Flip flops
- Touch-up kit
- Emergency supplies
Backstage Preparation
- Arrival timing
- Check-in process
- Pump-up routine
- Final touches
- Mental preparation
Common Rookie Mistakes to Avoid
- Coming in too lean
- Insufficient lower body development
- Poor posing practice
- Wrong suit selection
- Inadequate preparation time
Wellness vs. Other Divisions
Wellness vs. Bikini
- More muscle mass
- Greater lower body emphasis
- Different posing style
- Unique presentation criteria
- Specific suit requirements
Wellness vs. Figure
- Less upper body mass
- More natural curves
- Different posing requirements
- Unique judging criteria
- Specific presentation style
FAQs About Wellness Competition
Q: How long should I train before competing?
A: Minimum 2 years of consistent training recommended.
Q: What's the best way to start?
A: Begin with a reputable coach and focus on building a proper foundation.
Q: Can I transition from Bikini to Wellness?
A: Yes, many competitors successfully make this transition.
Q: What's the average preparation time?
A: 16-20 weeks for most competitors.
Getting Started Checklist
- Assess current physique
- Find qualified coaches
- Set realistic timeline
- Begin proper training
- Plan competition schedule
Next Steps to Success
Ready to start your Wellness journey? Here's what to do:
- Book a physique assessment
- Connect with experienced coaches
- Start targeted training
- Plan your competition timeline
- Order your suit early
Remember: Wellness competition success comes from proper preparation, patience, and dedication to the process. Focus on building the right foundation before stepping on stage.
Need help getting started? Book a free consultation to assess your readiness and create your personalized competition plan!
Your hard work deserves the best—explore Saleyla’s wellness competition suits and step on stage with confidence.