The Cost of Competing as a Bikini Competitor in 2024

Competing in a bikini bodybuilding competition is an incredible experience of discipline, hard work, and dedication. However, it also comes with financial commitments that potential competitors should be prepared for. To give you a transparent look at what it takes, here is a breakdown of the costs associated with my 10th bodybuilding show, held in July 2024. Keep in mind that some of these items, like the competition suit, jewelry, and shoes, can be reused for multiple shows, helping to reduce costs over time. Coaching prices and federation fees may vary depending on your location and choices.

Each prep gets easier as you become more experienced and confident in the process. Additionally, many items can be reused, such as your suit, shoes, and jewelry, which can significantly reduce costs in future competitions.

Registration Costs

  • NPC Federation Card: $150

  • Class Registration (Masters + Open): $270

  • Coaches Pass + Federation Card: $350

Total Registration Costs: $770

Appearance Costs

  • Tan: $150

  • Hair & Makeup: $275

  • Nails: $90

  • Hair Extensions: $380

  • Pre-Show Exfoliating: $30

Total Appearance Costs: $925

Attire Costs

  • Competition Suit: $850

  • Shoes: $90

  • Jewelry: $90

Total Attire Costs: $1,030

Professional Services Costs

  • Stage Photos & Video: $120

  • Massage: $200

  • Cupping & Scraping: $220

Total Professional Services Costs: $540

Coaching & Training Costs

  • Strength Coaching: $400/month

  • Nutrition Coaching: $175/month

  • Posing Coach Sessions: $75/session

  • Gym Membership: $65/month

  • Supplements: $100/month

Monthly Total (Over 6 Months): $4,140

Accommodation Costs

  • Hotel for Weekend: $425

  • Extra Sheets for Hotel: $29

  • Show Day Suitcase: $50

  • Gas/Travel: $100

Total Accommodation Costs: $604

Miscellaneous Costs

  • Show Day Family Tickets (4 Tickets): $400

  • Food: $400/month (over 6 months = $2,400)

  • Meal Prep Containers: $20

  • Meal Prep Cooler: $40

  • Water Jug: $40

  • "Go Girl" for Bathroom: $15

Total Miscellaneous Costs: $2,915

Grand Total Costs

  • Registration: $770

  • Appearance: $925

  • Attire: $1,030

  • Professional Services: $540

  • Coaching & Training (6 months): $4,140

  • Accommodations: $604

  • Miscellaneous: $2,915

Overall Total: $10,924

Key Takeaways

  1. Investment in Your Journey: Competing in bodybuilding is as much a financial commitment as it is a physical and mental one. Budgeting ahead of time is essential.

  2. Reusable Items: Some costs, such as competition suits, jewelry, and shoes, can be reduced over time as these items can be reused for multiple shows.

  3. Coaching & Support: Working with a team of coaches (strength, nutrition, and posing) ensures you're set up for success, but these services make up a significant portion of the overall cost.

  4. Everyday Longevity: The skills you develop in strength training, mobility, and nutrition coaching during competition prep aren’t just for show day. They build a foundation for long-term health, helping you move better, eat smarter, and feel stronger in everyday life. These are longevity skills that can benefit you well beyond the stage.

Why It’s Worth It

For many competitors, the experience, personal growth, and sense of accomplishment far outweigh the costs. If you’re considering competing, having a clear understanding of the financial investment can help you make informed decisions and plan accordingly.

If you're ready to take the stage and need support with training, nutrition, or posing, I'd love to help you build a strong foundation for your competition prep. As an all-in-one coach, I’m here to guide you through every step of the process and empower you to achieve your best.


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