Dear Members :
As we hit the midseason of CPA events being promoted across Canada , I see the positive feedback from every contest . There are many new competitors joining the CPA and registering to compete at their first contest . Many questions are sent my way regarding which categories to enter , how many categories to enter and qualifications .
I hope to touch on those questions and give some clarification . The first piece of advice I would like to give to first-time competitors is to compete in the true novice category . You will be surrounded by first timers . This will give you a sense of competing against those at the same level as you . The second reason to compete in true novice , it gives you a chance to get the nervousness out of your system by basically getting a practice run on the stage in front of the judges and audience . Depending on your budget you may absolutely go from the true novice to the novice class and more importantly the open class which qualifies you to the next level . Placing in the Top 3 in the open and masters class qualifies you to the pro qualifiers across Canada , where you can earn the prestigious IFBB Pro Card in both open and masters classes . Remember the first contest is the one where you absorb all this knowledge and get to show your hard work and journey to make it to the stage .
The next question often asked is “ What division I should compete in ?” Again , the first competition will help you decide what category you should be in , is it bikini or figure , bodybuilding or classic physique or women ’ s physique or women ’ s bodybuilding and so on . This is a good time to experiment with the different divisions . The judges will help you decide what is best suited for your physique . They cannot help you unless you do these crossovers divisions .
Entering this sport is often a turning point in your life and in some cases lifesaving . This sport will give back to you 100-fold depending on what you put into it . Some of you may start by entering these competitions for self-improvement as the foundation of participating . Regardless of where it takes you it will be an unforgettable experience and possible life changing experience .
Ron Hache , President Canadian Physique Alliance