This detailed breakdown of the Transformation Challenge Division within the IDFA outlines everything an athlete needs to know before stepping on stage. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned pro, understanding these guidelines is crucial for success in competition.
Is the Transformation Challenge for You?
Whether you’re just starting out or have made significant strides, the Transformation Challenge is your chance to showcase the incredible power of personal growth and resilience. Your journey reflects not just physical change, but a transformation of mindset and spirit, embodying the strength and dedication it takes to create a healthier, stronger, and more empowered version of yourself.
Since 2009, the IDFA has proudly highlighted the Transformation Challenge, celebrating over 500 incredible transformations. We are a family-friendly organization dedicated to making YOU a role model and inspiration. Your transformation—whether it’s in body, mindset, or overcoming adversity—is your unique journey, and we’re here to celebrate it.
Stepping onto the IDFA stage isn’t just a personal victory—it’s your moment to inspire. With pride and confidence, you’ll share your journey, becoming the highlight of the event and showing others what’s possible. This is your time to shine and lead by example!
Have questions or need more information? We’re here to help. Contact Shaun or join our Free Facebook group, IDFA Room, to connect with fellow competitors and get inspired.
Athlete Attire: What do you Wear?
These guidelines are flexible for the Transformation Challenge division. If you have a suit or heels you wish to wear but aren’t sure if they will be allowed, please contact us at info@idfa.ca.
Women:
- Bikini-Style Suit: A bikini-style suit of your choice or a typical bikini or posing suit used in other divisions. The suit must be tasteful and cover at least 40% of the glutes.
- Jewelry: Earrings, bracelets, and wedding rings are permitted. Jewelry should complement your look without overpowering or distracting from your physique.
- Shoes: Clear heels are allowed, either slip-on or with straps, with a heel no higher than 5″ and a sole no higher than 1.5″. Platform heels are not allowed. Alternatively, you may choose to go barefoot. All shoes will be checked at Athlete Registration/Check-in.
Men:
- Attire: A bodybuilding posing suit, swim trunks, or board shorts are the desired attire.
- Jewelry: Only small earrings and wedding rings are permitted.
For any questions or uncertainties about your attire, feel free to reach out to us. We’re here to help ensure you’re stage-ready!
Classes: Where do you Fit?
Transformation Challenge
- Men and Women: Both men and women can compete in the Transformation Challenge.
- Class Divisions: If there are more than 10 competitors, the group will be divided into 2 classes, split evenly and fairly. This division could be based on categories such as men and women or by age groups, depending on the number and makeup of participants.
Crossovers: Competing in Multiple Divisions
- Athletes are allowed to enter more than one Division in the same show. For example, you can compete in both the Transformation Challenge and Bikini, or in the Transformation Challenge and Men’s Physique at the same event.
This flexibility allows you to showcase your physique across different divisions, maximizing your competitive experience and opportunities to shine on stage.
Judging Criteria: How will you be Judged?
The Transformation Challenge division will be judged based on the following criteria:
- Overall Transformation: Judges will assess the degree of transformation, focusing on visible physical changes between the before and after stages. However, your transformation doesn’t have to be purely physical—it could also be about something significant you’ve overcome, such as a mental or emotional challenge. The judges will take into account the personal nature and impact of your journey.
- Story and Impact: The 300-word story you submit is a key element in the judging process. Judges will consider the challenges you’ve faced, the dedication to your journey, and the significance of your transformation, whether it’s a physical change or overcoming a significant personal obstacle.
- Stage Presence: Your presentation on stage will also be evaluated, including your confidence, poise, and how you showcase your transformation to the audience and judges. Enjoying your moment and demonstrating pride in your accomplishments are essential.
- Inspiration and Motivation: Judges will look at how inspiring and motivating your story and transformation are to others. Whether your journey is about physical change or overcoming a personal struggle, the impact it has in encouraging others to pursue their own transformations is a crucial factor.
The Transformation Challenge is about more than just physical changes; it’s about your unique journey, the obstacles you’ve overcome, and the inspiration you bring to others through your story.
Judging Round: What Do You Have to Do on Stage?
Competitors will:
Story Presentation:
- Your 300-word story will be read aloud as you come on stage as the “AFTER.” Your BEFORE PHOTO will be displayed on the big screen, representing your journey.
Stage Presentation:
- After your Transformation Story is read you will be introduced on stage for your Transformation Challenge Athlete T-walk. This is your time to shine—enjoy it and have fun!
- Athlete T-walk: Once the competitor (this is for both men, and women) has been introduced they will walk on to the stage and to the front (and Center) of the back line, complete a Front Pose (of their choice), then walk towards the front of the stage (Front Center), complete a Front Pose and Back Pose, then head to their left to the far end of the stage (Stage Right), complete either a Front Pose or a Side Pose, then head to the far right of the stage (Stage Left), complete a Front Pose or Side Pose, and then exit the stage.
- Don’t rush your time on stage. Savor every second—this is your opportunity to showcase all of your hard work.
Order of Events:
- The Transformation Challenge Division typically opens the show.
This structure ensures you have the time and space to fully celebrate your transformation journey.
Requirements Needed: What You Need to Send Us
- 300 Word Story: Share your Transformation journey in a 300-word story. There is no specific time frame for your journey—everyone’s story is unique. Please send your story in a Word document or in the body of your email to info@idfa.ca.
- Before Photo: Submit your Before Photo in jpeg, jpg, or png format. The photo should best represent your overall Transformation journey. There’s no specific time frame for when the photo was taken—just choose one that captures your progress.
- Registration: Don’t forget to register for the show you will be competing in.
These steps will ensure your entry is complete and ready for the Transformation Challenge!
Awards Presentation:
After the Judging round is completed:
- All the Transformation Challenge competitors will be called back to the stage, to the back line.
- The awards presenter will place a medallion around your neck as you line up on the front line of the stage. Competitors will be arranged in order from 10th to 1st place. All the placings for this class will be officially announced on stage.
- After the awards are handed out, a photo will be taken of the Entire class, then Top 5, then the Top 3, and finally, a solo photo with the Winner.
Award Details:
- The Top 3 will receive Large IDFA Custom Medallions, while 4th, 5th, 6th, etc will receive smaller IDFA medallions.
- All Transformation Challenge competitors will receive a Medallion.
This is the process for awarding competitors in this class, ensuring a clear and organized presentation.
This comprehensive guide ensures that you’re fully prepared for every aspect of the competition, from attire to posing and judging criteria. Whether you’re just starting or aiming for the Pro division, this information will help you present your best self on stage.
