Now that a few Fit Model shows have happened, we’re getting our first look at how this division is being judged. But let me be clear—this is just the beginning.

Judges can only place the competitors who show up, and right now, that’s a small fraction of the talent we’ll see by the end of the season. If you think today’s winners are the new standard, you’re setting yourself up for failure. They may grow into the standard, and they should. But none of them are there...yet.

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Ashley Kaltwasser’s 2015 Look is STILL the Standard

Until the NPC/IFBB Pro League says otherwise—likely not until the first Fit Model Olympia is crowned—Ashley Kaltwasser’s 2015 Olympia-winning physique remains the target.

Saying that current Fit Model show winners define the standard would be like saying the 2024 Ms. Bikini Olympia will only be the standard until someone wins a pro card this year. You see how ridiculous that sounds?

The standard isn’t determined by whoever wins early shows—it’s set by the federation.You’ve heard the saying, ‘Dress for the job you want, not the one you have.’ The same applies here—train for the Fit Model standard, not just for the competitors currently holding the top spots. The real benchmark hasn’t changed, and it won’t until the NPC/IFBB Pro League says otherwise.

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A Judge & Coach’s Perspective: Don’t Underestimate Muscle

As both a judge and a coach, I can tell you one of the biggest mistakes competitors make—outside of not coming in lean enough—is underestimating the amount of muscle they need to build.

Fit Model is NOT meant to match current Bikini standards, but that doesn’t mean it’s a soft or easy division. It’s still bodybuilding. The name of the game is work and earning the physique.

This division is meant to be an attainable look, but it still takes time and dedication to achieve. The structure, shape, and conditioning requirements mean you cannot afford to undershoot your development.

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One More Myth to Bust

I keep hearing people say there’s a different standard for NPC and IFBB Pro League.

Think about this logically—name one division where amateur and pro athletes are judged by completely different criteria. You can’t. Because it doesn’t exist.

Yes, top pros are more refined because they have more time to develop, but the judging standard is the same. Fit Model will be no different.

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Key Takeaway: Stay Focused on the Right Look

Be careful who you listen to. Don’t change your physique goals based on who’s winning shows right now.

Very few competitors are going to meet the Fit Model standard this early—because the division was just released. That’s why Ashley’s physique remains the benchmark.

And don’t underestimate glute development. No, it’s not Bikini-level, but glute density and shape still matter. Look at Ashley’s glutes from the side—that took time and work to build, and its needed to showcase the glutes in the Fit Model back pose. If you’re not prioritizing that, you’re already behind.

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Final Thoughts

The Fit Model division isn’t a guessing game. The NPC/IFBB Pro League has already made it clear what they’re looking for—you just have to stay the course.

Don’t get distracted. Don’t chase the wrong standard. Keep building toward what’s actually being asked for.

If you’re serious about making sure you’re training for the right look and not wasting time on misinformation, ​I’m here to help.

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