The NPC and IFBB Pro League launched the Fit Model division in 2025, and it's quickly becoming one of the most popular new categories in competitive bodybuilding. The division celebrates a balanced, athletic, and naturally feminine physique — toned and shapely without the extreme conditioning or muscularity required in Bikini or Wellness.
If you're preparing for your first Fit Model show or working toward your Pro card, understanding the official suit requirements is critical. Getting flagged at check-in for a non-compliant suit can derail months of prep work. This guide covers everything you need to know about NPC and IFBB Fit Model division suit rules for 2025–2026.
Official NPC Fit Model Suit Requirements
The NPC and IFBB Pro League have strict rules for Fit Model competition suits. All suits must meet the following criteria:
1. Plain Fabric Only — One Solid Color Your suit must be made from Spandex (Lycra) or Metallic/Hologram fabric in one solid color. No patterns, prints, color-blocking, or multi-color designs are permitted. Solid jewel tones, deep colors, and metallics all work well under stage lighting.
2. No Embellishments of Any Kind Absolutely no crystals, stones, sequins, beads, bling, or decorative elements are allowed on Fit Model suits. This rule is strictly enforced. If you're used to competing in Bikini with crystal-covered suits, Fit Model is a completely different aesthetic — the focus is entirely on your physique, not your suit embellishments.
3. No Connectors Connectors (the decorative hardware that links bikini pieces) are not permitted in the Fit Model division. Your suit must be a clean, simple two-piece with no added hardware or decorative closures.
4. Moderate Front Coverage — No Sharp V-Front The front of your bikini bottom should have moderate coverage with a slightly rounded or scooped shape. Sharp V-fronts are not allowed. The goal is a clean, polished look that doesn't distract from your physique.
5. Minimum 50% Glute Coverage in the Back Your bikini bottom must cover at least 50% of your glutes. Thong cuts, micro cuts, pro cuts, Brazilian cuts, and cheeky styles do not meet this requirement and will be flagged at check-in. A scrunch back is allowed as long as the suit maintains the required 50% coverage.
6. No Side Ties on the Bottom Side ties are not permitted on Fit Model bikini bottoms. Your bottom must have fixed sides — adjustable side ties will not pass check-in.
7. Two-Piece Suit Required Competitors must wear a two-piece bikini. One-piece suits or monokinis are not allowed.
8. High Heels Required All Fit Model competitors must wear high heels during judging and stage presentation. We suggest 5-inch heels; we keep several styles in stock here.
9. Jewelry is Permitted Unlike the suit itself, jewelry is allowed. Many competitors choose simple, elegant pieces that complement their look without overpowering their physique.
What Happens If Your Suit Doesn't Meet the Rules?
The NPC is very clear about suit compliance: athletes are advised to bring two suits to check-in in case one is deemed non-compliant. If your suit doesn't meet the official requirements, you'll be given a warning and asked to change into a compliant suit. If you don't have a backup suit or if your suit is deemed inappropriate, you may be disqualified from the competition.
Judges may score you down if your suit is borderline compliant but not up to standard (for example, if the front coverage is too low or the back coverage is insufficient). To avoid any issues, make sure your suit is built to the exact NPC and IFBB specifications before you arrive at check-in.
Fit Model vs. Bikini Division: Key Differences
If you've competed in Bikini before, here are the major differences in the Fit Model division:
| Aspect | Fit Model Division | Bikini Division |
|---|---|---|
| Physique Standard | Toned, balanced, moderate development — less muscularity than Bikini | Leaner, more muscular, higher conditioning |
| Suit Embellishments | No crystals, stones, or bling allowed | Crystals and embellishments encouraged |
| Connectors | Not allowed | Allowed and often used |
| Posing Style | Classic front pose (one foot forward, slight hip tilt) and back pose | Model walk with quarter turns |
| Glute Coverage | Minimum 50% required | More coverage options available |
| Prep Intensity | More sustainable, less extreme dieting | Requires very low body fat and peak conditioning |
The Fit Model division is designed to be more approachable and sustainable than Bikini, making it a great option for athletes who want to compete without the extreme prep demands of other divisions.
Where to Buy NPC-Compliant Fit Model Suits
At Suits You Competition Suits, we've been handcrafting competition bikinis in Clearwater, Florida since 1996. Every Fit Model suit we make is designed to meet the exact NPC and IFBB Pro League requirements, so you can step on stage with complete confidence.
We offer:
- In-stock Fit Model suits ready to ship immediately
- Custom Fit Model suits made to your exact measurements with adjustable sides
- Plain Spandex and Metallic/Hologram fabric options in a wide range of colors
- Guaranteed compliance with 2025–2026 NPC and IFBB rules
Shop our Fit Model collection here →
Pro Qualifying Opportunities for Fit Model
The Fit Model division debuted at the amateur (NPC) level in 2025, and the IFBB Pro League Fit Model division will launch in 2026. Competitors can earn their Pro cards through NPC pro-qualifying events, including:
- NPC Junior USA Championships
- NPC Junior National Championships
- NPC USA Championships
- NPC North American Championships
- NPC Universe Championships
- NPC Pittsburgh Natural Pro Qualifier
- NPC Ben Weider Natural Pro Qualifier
Each pro qualifier features four height classes, with top finishers earning their IFBB Pro cards. Check NPC News Online for the latest schedule and qualifying criteria.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fit Model Suits
Can I wear my Bikini Division suit in Fit Model? No. Bikini suits typically have crystals, connectors, and different coverage standards. You'll need a plain, compliant Fit Model suit for this division.
What's the best color for a Fit Model suit? Choose a solid color that complements your skin tone and stands out under stage lighting. Jewel tones (emerald, sapphire, ruby), deep colors (navy, burgundy, black), and rich metallics (gold, rose gold, silver) all work well. Because you can't use crystals, fabric color and quality become even more important.
Do I need a custom suit or can I buy off-the-rack? Both are allowed. You can compete in an in-stock suit or order a custom suit made to your measurements. Custom suits offer the advantage of a perfect fit tailored to your body, but high-quality in-stock suits that fit well are also compliant.
How do I know if my suit has 50% glute coverage? When wearing your suit, the bottom should cover at least half of each glute cheek. If you're unsure, take photos from behind and compare to compliant suit examples. It's better to have slightly more coverage than risk being flagged at check-in.
Final Thoughts
The Fit Model division offers a fantastic opportunity for athletes who want to compete in a more sustainable, balanced category. By following the official NPC and IFBB suit rules and choosing a compliant suit from a trusted manufacturer, you'll set yourself up for success on stage.
Have questions about Fit Model suits or need help choosing the right suit for your show? Contact us here — we're happy to help.
Ready to compete? Shop our NPC-compliant Fit Model bikinis →
Official rules subject to change. Always verify current requirements at NPC News Online before competition.