2018 NPAA Magazine 2018 NPAA Magazine - This is Our Sport | Page 58

MY VIEW FROM OUTSIDE
looking on stage
As a former Bikini/Fitness Model & Competitor, I’ve
experienced the unexplainable challenge of prepping and
competing on stage.  I was honored to become one of the
official NPAA Judges.  I will say, it is one of the hardest “jobs” I
have performed with all the incredible work every competitor
brings to the stage.

Here are some tips to bring your best physique, stage
presence and posing package to stage:

First, Sportsmanship.  
We all strive for a trophy - Placing and winning are definitely
motivation tools in any competition. However, there are
150-200+ other competitors that have completed the same
journey as you. Have fun, learn, respect each other, network,
be kind, and applaud others achievements.  There is a fine
line between being confident and over-confident.  Choose
the positive route. There is no point in dissecting how the
winners won.  Instead be proud of your accomplishment and
celebrating your journey on stage.  Reality, you’re all
winners for different reasons. There is always room for
improvements and more shows to compete.

Less is more.
Posing should be kept to the posing criteria for the association. 
Yes, take your time.  By that we don’t mean “over” posing or
repeating the same pose to lengthen your stage time. Don’t
become redundant.  Clean, classy, unique and be naturally
YOU.
Flailing arms, inappropriate poses and kisses to the crowd
are not necessary at all on stage.  This is a sport not a
pageant or prom.  Up-do’s do not suit the sport.  
We invite you to bling up your beautiful suits but, stay away
from distracting suits or patterns.  Again Less is more.  Pick
a color you’ve often been complimented in.  Remember you
are wearing the suit, the suit is not wearing you.

Now that you’ve spent all this time, money and energy on
perfecting your physique, take the time to put the effort into
completing the stage package.  Perfecting your posing with
a posing coach, practicing walking in your heels, practice in
the mirror and in front of an audience to help eliminate stage
jitters.  Look at the audience, move your eyes and head. 
You are not a robot.  Book your professional spray tan. An
even, flawless tan looks best under the stage lights.   Hire
a professional for makeup and hair.  Finally, walk the stage
confidently and SMILE and pick some rewarding treats for
after the show to celebrate your accomplishment!
BY: TANYA FREW
NPAA Judge, Personal Trainer & Competition Coach
55.