Divisions
Athletes may compete in multiple divisions at the same event (for example Classic Physique and Men's Physique). The Open class is the only class that qualifies you for Open National contests, which often award pro cards.
Men's Divisions
- Bodybuilding
- Classic Physique
- Men's Physique
Women's Divisions
- Women's Physique
- Wellness
- Figure
- Fitness
- Bikini
- Military
Active or retired competitors with an Armed Forces ID.
- First Responder
Active or retired competitors with a First Responder ID.
Mr & Ms South Bend
Not every show has a title worth fighting for.
For the first time ever, NPC Battle of the Bend will crown Mr. South Bend and Ms. South Bend.
This optional class is open to all athletes, regardless of division or where you call home.
Despite the name, you DO NOT have to be a South Bend resident or even live in Indiana to compete for it. Whether you're from another city, another state, or traveling across the country, you're eligible to battle for the title.
Competitors will return to the stage for a Champion of Champions — Overall style battle, with one man and one woman ultimately earning the title in each Division.
The Reward
The inaugural champions will receive a custom Battle of the Bend Warrior Ring and become part of a new tradition, returning the following year to help crown the next Mr. & Ms. South Bend.
You can check the rings out on our IG page.
One title. One champion. One piece of Battle of the Bend history.
Will you answer the call?
Experience & age classes
- True Novice
- Competitors have never competed in the NPC before.
- Novice
- Must not have placed Top 10 at a National show, must not have won an Overall (Novice, Masters, or Open), and must not have won an Open Class with 3 or more competitors.
- Masters
- Must be the age shown or older on contest day. May compete in multiple age classes and may cross over to Novice, True Novice, or Open when eligible.
- Open
- Any NPC athlete of any age or experience level may compete.
To enter an age class (Teen, Junior, or Masters), you must meet the cutoff on contest day — the minimum age for a “35 and over” class, or under the maximum for a “23 and under” class.
Qualify for nationals
The NPC Battle of the Bend is open to all NPC athletes and is an NPC National Qualifier — it can qualify you for national events such as NPC Teen Collegiate Masters Nationals, NPC North American, and more.