Hi,
I realize people compete at various body fat percentages, but what is a good goal to shoot for when preparing for your first figure competition? I am guessing 10%?

~C. Herndon

You’re right, bodyfat % varies from person to person as far as what is the right appearance on stage. And of course in the end ALL that matters is what you look like. But the most relevant parameter is your total pounds of fat. And there’s still a bit of range for what is best for each figure competitor. Some girls need to get their bodyfat down to 12 lbs of total fat or so to look good and some girls turn pro at 15 lbs of fat or more. But 12-18 lbs of total fat is a good overall target range for figure.

Here’s why bodyfat % doesn’t matter: 15 lbs of fat on a girl that weighs 110 is 13.6%. While that same 15 lbs of fat on a girl that weighs 145 is 10.3%. The heavier your weight, the lower it makes the percentage. I can’t tell you how many “counseling sessions” we’ve had with girls who get very freaked out by bodyfat %. And usually it’s when a Body Builder is coaching them in the gym. So now that you’re armed with this information it won’t happen to you. Bodyfat % is simply a way to measure progress but is rarely a way to determine if you’re ready or not. And no matter what the fat level, what separates the leaders of the pack from everyone else in Figure is god given shape and structure more than anything else - by far.

Thanks......
I feel much better now. I just had my body fat done and it was 15.5% as per calipers. I figured it to be approx. 104 pounds of lean meat, blood, and bones, and 19 pounds of fat.
I have pictures of me when I was two years old and my calves were exceptional; so I feel like my dad gave me some good genetics for builidng muscle.
I am going to shoot for the 12 pounds of fat. That seems less restrictive than 10% body fat. Even though on me it is the same thing.

I appreciate your thoughtful reply,
~C. Herndon
"The Visionquester"