After the Show: Is Backstage Feedback Possible from Judges in IFBB Pro League & NPC?
- vucuthocasi
- Jun 29
- 3 min read
Yazan: IFBB PRO COACH CAN ÜNAL
After the Show: Is Backstage Feedback Possible from Judges in IFBB Pro League & NPC?
Introduction
Competition day in professional bodybuilding events is both thrilling and a culmination of immense effort. Yet, when athletes step off the stage, one question frequently arises: “Can I get feedback from the judges?” In IFBB Pro League, NPC Pro Qualifier, and other major competitions, this topic comes up often. Can an athlete approach a judge in backstage immediately after the show? When and how is feedback officially given?
In this article, we explore real-world practices and official protocols—with a clear roadmap tailored for your needs.
Rules for Judges & Backstage Access in IFBB Pro League, Pro Shows, and NPC Events
During the show, judges remain onstage to score and evaluate performances. They are not allowed backstage or to initiate contact with athletes while the show is ongoing. This preserves impartiality, performance flow, and fair competition.
Athletes may enter or exit the backstage area only under strict conditions and only at designated times. Meeting with a judge backstage before the show ends is against regulations and undermines event integrity.
Official technical feedback is not expected on competition day. Any coaching, advice, or analysis must occur after the event, in authorized settings overseen by the federation.
The IFBB and NPC rulebooks clearly state:
Judges’ duties and zones of operation are strictly defined.
Athletes’ backstage movements are tightly controlled.
Unauthorized individuals are not permitted backstage access.
Why Do These Rules Exist?
Reason | Purpose |
Impartiality | Keeps judges’ decisions unbiased |
Professionalism | Protects event order and flow |
Confidentiality | Safeguards competition integrity |
Athlete Focus | Maintains concentration and motivation |
Step Off Stage: Athlete Expectations vs. Reality
Athletes often wish to approach a judge immediately post-show to understand their performance. This desire is natural—after years of work, athletes want closure. However, event protocols and judges’ roles make spontaneous feedback rare.
Dialogue Example – Athlete & Coach
Athlete:
“Coach, the show is over. Can I talk to a judge backstage right now? I really want to know what they thought.”
Coach (Can Ünal):
“You must be patient. Judges have been working non-stop all day. They’re unlikely to offer detailed feedback right after the show. Real feedback comes later, in a planned, professional setting.”
Actual Practices in IFBB Pro League and NPC Pro Qualifiers
1. On-the-Spot Feedback
Not allowed per official rules during the show.
Immediately after, judges are often still processing scores and logistics.
When athletes do receive feedback post-show, it’s typically motivational—here are some typical phrases:
"We look forward to seeing you in Vegas."
"Work a bit on your posing."
These are kind, supportive words—but not technical evaluations.
2. Structured, Post-Event Feedback
Official feedback happens later—in judged office environments or committee rooms, by appointment.
Sometimes fee-based—or arranged through official channels.
Offers clear guidance, such as:
Which category best suits the athlete's physique.
What weaknesses need correction.
How to plan next year’s preparation.
In larger events (e.g. Tampa Pro, Indy Pro Supershow), judges do provide one-on-one sessions after the competition—though this depends on the event’s feedback policies.
Dialogue Example – Athlete & Head Judge
Athlete:
“Head Judge, may I get detailed feedback on my performance?”
Head Judge:
“Of course—but not backstage right now. We can arrange a formal meeting by appointment. Brief motivational comments are fine, but a full analysis requires a planned session.”
Why This Distinction Matters
Impartiality & Ethical Integrity: Immediate feedback may compromise judges’ neutrality.
Professionalism: Judging is a career, not just a role—aligned with discipline and respect.
Athlete Development: Constructive, data-driven feedback needs structure.
Event Management: Backstage access is regulated; unexpected meetings can disrupt logistics.
Conclusion & Recommendations
Don’t expect detailed feedback immediately after the show.
Submit feedback requests formally through the event’s official channels.
Be willing to engage in professional consultations—possibly fee-based—for meaningful guidance.
Respecting the process ensures both system integrity and your own growth trajectory.
Remember: The spotlight may fade, but the system endures—and true progress comes from informed feedback at the right time.
About the Author
IFBB PRO COACH CAN ÜNALCoach | Promoter | System Architect | Stage Mentor
Can Ünal is a leading coach within IFBB Pro League, having guided hundreds of athletes across Turkey and Europe. In addition to physical training, he specializes in category strategy, league literacy, and stage behavior coaching.
A firm believer in system-driven progression, Can has actively supported many athletes transitioning from NPC to IFBB Pro League—developing competitors with strong strategic understanding.
A stage organizer and event planner himself, he focuses on feedback culture, judging ethics, and backstage guidance systems.
For Can, coaching isn’t only about workouts—it’s about intelligently navigating the competition calendar and mapping each athlete’s career path. What he writes reflects his stage vision in every sentence.
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