Page 15 - NGA By-Laws

and detail. Symmetry is a measurement of evenness of development and how well all parts of the physique fit together.
III.1.3 Presentation
The element of presentation covers everything not included in muscularity and symmetry. This includes the effectiveness of the display of the contestant's assets, and includes posture, carriage, projection and posing ability. Skin quality, evenness of tone, choice of posing outfit and grooming are considered.
III.2 Judging Specifics
Certain markers are evident within the structure of physique judgment embraced by the NGA. These markers help to clarify the dimensions of judgment referred to above (muscularity, symmetry, and presentation), and have evolved over the history of bodybuilding as a sport. Judges are required to consider all aspects of each dimension of judgment, and to use these markers to compare and make placements within each NGA certified competition.
III.2.1 Muscularity
In comparing muscularity, judges should look for evidence that the competitor is a bodybuilder, with muscularity that is greater-than-average. An impressive development of muscle and NOT the definition of average muscularity achieved simply via dieting is the quality sought in this area. In gauging muscularity, the judge should examine the degree of muscularity over the entire body.
The ARMS, judges should look for prominent bifurcated peaks in the biceps brachia, and for separate and distinct development of the brachialis and coracobrachialis. All three heads of the triceps should be separately visible and exhibit appropriate thickness and size.
Muscle in the forearm should give the appearance of having 75% of the circumference of the upper arms when flexed and have necessary detail.
The SHOULDERS should exhibit all three heads of the deltoids in a balanced development, separated distinctly from the trapezius, chest and muscles of the upper arm. Also in this area, in the BACK region, the trapezius and sternocleidomastoid (neck) muscles should be developed and visible. The traps should extend down into the center back (rhomboid) muscles and the infraspinatus and teres minor groups should be visible. From these the latissimus sweep widely from the spinal insertions to beneath the arms, giving the back width. There should also be a deep furrow along the lower spine reflecting thickness of the erector spinae muscles.
From a frontal view, the CHEST should exhibit developed pectorals, which are thick and defined. Upper and lower portions should be distinguishable and of approximate equal thickness, with squared shape desirable along the outside, inside and lower edges for men. There should be no unsightly puffiness in male contestants, which is evidence of gynecomastia
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