NewB Question: Getting to the Am. Arnold Stage

[Making_A_Change]

I am trying to understand how an athlete makes it to the Am. Arnold. I understand that there is an application and one must be invited. And I read this on arnoldclassic.com:

Who is eligible to compete?
Any Fitness, Figure or Bodybuilding athlete residing in the United States who is registered as a member of the National Physique Committee and has placed in the top five in an N.P.C. National qualifying event; and the top international I.F.B.B. amateur competitors from throughout Europe, Asia, and Canada who are qualified or have been recommended by their respective national I.F.B.B. affiliates. The Arnold Amateur Championships reserves the right to decline entry to any athlete who does not meet these requirements.


I just wanted some clarification. Does the above me Top 5 in your height class? Are there a number of shows that you should do beforehand? Are there some shows that are considered 'stepping stones' to the Am Arnold? I am thinking of Nationals? Jr. Nationals? If so, what are they.

How long did it take some of you to get from your first show to the Arnold?

I am setting a long-term goal of competing there someday.

[NYCStrongFox]

You should have placed top 5 (yes, in your class) in a national qualifier. But, as stated, they can decline entries of those who haven't. So, there have been competitors who haven't placed top 5 or who haven't competed much on the amateur stage who applied to compete at this show and were accepted.

[Making_A_Change]

You should have placed top 5 (yes, in your class) in a national qualifier. But, as stated, they can decline entries of those who haven't. So, there have been competitors who haven't placed top 5 or who haven't competed much on the amateur stage who applied to compete at this show and were accepted.

Thank you. It great to gain more clarity about next steps. I look at the physiques of the women and know I have ALOT of work to do, but that is what is driving me.

[NYCStrongFox]

You're welcome. You can do it too and you can make it happen! Keep pressing on girl and before you know it, you'll be on that stage too! :D

[Iron Amazon]

Thanks for posting this... I never really researched much on the "qualifications" for the Am. Arnold. I am surprised that since it is not a National Level Show that they can tell people "no". But it is the Arnold, and the elite should compete..... hey that rhymes...lol