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Article: What is the APF Tournament? An explanation of physique rules, how to enter, and even surf shorts

What is the APF Tournament? An explanation of physique rules, how to enter, and even surf shorts

APF大会とは?フィジークのルール・出場方法・サーフパンツまで解説
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ALLOUT この記事の執筆者および監修者
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APF Grand Prix Series 2025 ストリートモデル1位 フィジークモデル クラス20 4位
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トレーニング歴3年半。これまでにフィットネス大会へ3度出場し、実体験に基づいたボディメイクやトレーニングの知見を培う。現在はその経験を活かし、フィットネスに関する情報発信や監修を行っている。
ALLOUT 公式編集部監修者
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フィットネスブランド「ALL OUT」を運営する編集チーム。トレーニングギアの開発やフィットネス業界の知見を活かし、ボディメイクやトレーニングに関する情報を発信している。

APF (Asia Physique Federation) is a fitness competition organization that is rapidly gaining popularity in Japan.

It features various categories such as Men's Physique and Bodybuilding, with competitions held across the country.

However, many people who are considering competing in an APF competition for the first time may have questions like:

  • What kind of competition is APF?
  • When and where are the competitions held?
  • What are the entry methods and costs?
  • Which surf shorts should I choose for Physique?

This article will clearly explain to beginners everything from the characteristics of APF competitions, competition schedules, entry methods, necessary costs, preparation, to how to choose surf shorts.

This article thoroughly delves into APF competitions, and the "ALL OUT" editorial department will introduce recommended physique surf shorts from various manufacturers and popular brands, focusing on our own products. Please use this as a reference when making a purchase.

*Prices for other companies' products are based on the prices at the time of article creation. Please note that current prices may differ.

What is APF?

APF stands for "Asia Physique Federation" and is one of the rapidly growing fitness competition organizations in Japan.

Characteristics of APF Competitions

The biggest characteristic of APF competitions is their judging criteria, which emphasize "stage presence" and "physical beauty."

Instead of only evaluating muscle mass, overall balance, style, and posing are comprehensively judged, making it a fitness competition with a relatively high level of entertainment value.

Additionally, with strong show elements like lighting and stage direction, it is popular as a competition that audiences can also enjoy.

APF offers class divisions to make it easier for beginners to participate, with categories for first-time competitors and height-based classes.

Therefore, it attracts a wide range of participants, from "first-time fitness competitors" to "top-level athletes."

Furthermore, competitions are held across the country, and the ability to compete in contests throughout the year is another attractive point.

Differences from Other Fitness Competitions

There are various organizations for fitness competitions, and their judging criteria and competition atmosphere differ.
The differences between APF and other major fitness organizations in Japan are summarized in the table below.

Organization Characteristics Judging Tendency
APF Highly entertaining competition production Style and aesthetic completeness
SSA Popular Japanese organization Well-balanced physique
FWJ Collaborates with international organizations Muscle mass and conditioning
JBBF Japan Bodybuilding Federation Emphasizes muscle mass and athleticism

Compared to other organizations, APF tends to emphasize "body silhouette" and "stage presentation," making it a competition that values style.

What is APF Physique? Explanation of the Competition Content

APF Physique is a competition category where contestants wear surf shorts and compete on the balance and beauty of their physique. Key judging points include a "V-tapered body," "narrow waist," and "wide shoulders."

In addition to Physique, APF competitions also feature several other categories, primarily:

Category Characteristics
Bodybuilding Emphasizes muscle mass and conditioning
Men's Physique Competes on style in surf shorts
Bikini Evaluates women's well-balanced physique
Fit Model Emphasizes model physique and stage expression

Among these, Men's Physique is highly popular, with many athletes participating in this category.

APF also features unique categories such as:

  • Kids Physique
  • Family Physique
  • Men's Singlet Model
  • Women's Fitwear Model

Main APF Competition Schedule

APF competitions are mainly held across Japan from March to November.
Regional competitions take place from spring to summer, followed by major competitions and end-of-season events in the autumn.

Below is the main competition schedule, organized based on the official APF website.

Date Competition Name Venue
March 8, 2026 APF FIRST IMPACT 2026 Yokohama City Education Hall (Kanagawa)
March 22, 2026 APF WEST JAPAN CHAMPIONSHIPS 2026 Kobe Shimbun Matsukata Hall (Hyogo)
April 5, 2026 APF DIAMOND CUP 2026 Sakado City Cultural Hall (Saitama)
April 19, 2026 APF TOKYO OPEN 2026 IMA Hall (Tokyo)
May 4, 2026 APF EMERALD CHAMPIONSHIPS 2026 Fukuoka International Congress Center (Fukuoka)
May 23, 2026 APF GOUKETSU 2026 Mitaka City Public Hall (Tokyo)
May 30, 2026 APF EAST JAPAN CHAMPIONSHIPS 2026 Chiba City Cultural Center (Chiba)
June 7, 2026 APF PACIFIC OCEAN CUP 2026 Hitachinaka City Cultural Hall (Ibaraki)
June 13, 2026 APF NORTHERN JAPAN CHAMPIONSHIPS 2026 Electric Power Hall (Miyagi)
June 27, 2026 APF SEA OF JAPAN CHAMPIONSHIPS 2026 Hokkoku Shimbun Akahane Hall (Ishikawa)
July 11, 2026 APF PAN PACIFIC OPEN 2026 Naha Cultural Arts Theater Nahato (Okinawa)
July 25, 2026 APF CARNELIAN CHAMPIONSHIPS 2026 Numazu City Cultural Center (Shizuoka)
August 29, 2026 APF Nagoya Tournament Nagoya Bunri University Culture Forum (Aichi)
September 5, 2026 APF Nagano Tournament Iiyama City Culture Exchange Center Natura (Nagano)
September 19, 2026 APF Tokyo Tournament Hikifune Culture Center (Tokyo)
September 26, 2026 APF Kagawa Tournament Rexxam Hall (Kagawa)
October 3, 2026 APF Osaka Tournament Fujiidera City Citizens' General Hall (Osaka)
October 12, 2026 APF Gunma Tournament Shoken Gakuen Maebashi Hall (Gunma)
October 18, 2026 APF Tokyo Tournament Musashimurayama Citizens' Hall (Tokyo)
November 14, 2026 APF Tokyo Tournament Fussa Citizens' Hall (Tokyo)
November 21, 2026 APF Tokyo Tournament Tokyo International Forum Hall B (Tokyo)

APF competitions are characterized by being held in various regions like a national tour.

  • March-May: Major competitions to kick off the season

  • June-July: Mainly regional competitions

  • August-October: Large-scale competitions held nationwide

  • November: End-of-season competitions

Since many competitions are held throughout the year, athletes can choose which competitions to participate in based on their condition and goals.

Which APF Competition Should You Enter? Competition Level List

According to the official APF (Asia Physique Federation) rules, there is no level differentiation for the competitions themselves, such as "FIRST IMPACT is only for beginners" or "TOKYO competition is for advanced athletes."

In APF, levels are categorized not by the competition itself, but by the "category (class) you enter" within it.

  • First Timer (for those competing for the very first time only)

  • Newcomer / Novice (introductory to intermediate class)

  • Open (advanced/elite class, open to anyone)

In other words, if an APF competition has a "First Timer" class, it's perfectly fine for beginners to participate, as everyone else will also be beginners.

How to Enter an APF Competition

To enter an APF competition, you need to register on the official website in advance.

How to Enter an APF Competition

STEP 1: Choose the competition you want to enter

First, decide which competition you will enter.

  • Check the Contest page on the APF official website

  • Check dates, locations, and categories

  • Choose a competition considering your weight loss schedule and travel distance

Competitions are held across Japan from spring to autumn, so it is important to choose a competition where your condition will be at its peak.

STEP 2: Create an APF Card (Membership Registration)

To enter an APF competition, you need to register for an APF Card.

  • Register as a member on the APF official website

  • A "My Page" will be created after registration

  • Registration fee: 10,000 yen

  • Validity period: January 1 to December 31

Since you cannot enter a competition without this APF Card, you must register for it first.

apf registration procedure step 1

STEP 3: Enter the competition

Once you have created your APF Card, the next step is to enter the competition.

  • Log in to your APF My Page

  • Select the competition you wish to enter

  • Click the "Apply" button

  • Select the entry category

  • Fill in the required information and apply

Once the application is complete, if the status on your My Page changes to "Applied," your entry is confirmed.

apf competition application procedure step 1
apf competition application procedure step 1

APF Competition Entry Fees

To enter an APF competition, several preparation costs are required. The main costs include "competition entry fees," "body coloring fees," and "competition attire (surf shorts)."

Below is an estimate of the main costs required to enter an APF competition.

Cost Item Average Price
APF Card registration fee (mandatory) 10,000 yen
Competition entry fee (mandatory) Approx. 8,000-15,000 yen
Backstage pass (optional) 13,000 yen
Coloring (mandatory: designated provider) Approx. 10,000-20,000 yen
Surf shorts (mandatory) Approx. 8,000-20,000 yen

For Men's Physique, wearing surf shorts according to competition regulations is mandatory, so first-time competitors will also need to factor in the cost of purchasing surf shorts.

A backstage pass is an admission ticket for support staff, such as trainers or friends, to enter the dressing room. Also, many competitions prohibit coloring by providers other than those designated.

In total, the preparation cost for first-time APF competitors is typically around 30,000 to 50,000 yen. Depending on the competition, travel and accommodation expenses may also be incurred, so it's best to prepare with ample time.

Preparation for APF Competitions

To participate in an APF competition, it's not just about entry; preparation for the competition day is also necessary.

In fitness competitions, not only physical conditioning but also posing and stage presentation are important evaluation points, so it is crucial to prepare thoroughly in advance.

Conditioning

Weight Loss

In fitness competitions, a condition where muscle lines and body silhouette are clearly visible is required.

Generally, weight loss starts several months before the competition, and conditioning is adjusted through a combination of training and diet management.

It is important to reduce body fat while maintaining as much muscle mass as possible, so it is essential to proceed with a planned approach rather than drastic weight loss.

Posing Practice

In APF physique competitions, athletes perform poses on stage to showcase their body balance and silhouette. Therefore, posing practice is necessary before the competition.

In competitions, specific poses are often set for each category, and "callout judging" is performed where multiple athletes line up for comparison.

The appearance of the body can change significantly depending on the completeness of the posing, so it is not uncommon for athletes to practice in front of a mirror or receive posing instruction.

Items needed on stage

Surf Shorts

In the Men's Physique category, surf shorts are worn on stage. Surf shorts are not just an outfit; they are a crucial item for enhancing the body's silhouette.

For example, depending on the design and color, the waist might appear slimmer or the length of the legs emphasized, meaning the impression on stage can change significantly based on the chosen surf shorts.

Additionally, APF competitions have regulations regarding the length and design of surf shorts, so it is necessary to choose surf shorts that comply with these rules.

Therefore, many athletes competing in APF Physique use surf shorts specifically designed for physique competitions. In men's physique, the choice of surf shorts can change how the waist appears slim or legs appear long, making them a very important item among competitors.

Coloring

In fitness competitions, coloring is done to clearly show the muscle definition. Coloring enhances the cuts of the muscles under stage lighting, emphasizing the body's three-dimensionality.

In APF competitions, it is often the case that a specific coloring service provider is designated depending on the venue, so it is important to check the competition guidelines in advance.

Official Rules for Physique Shorts in APF Competitions

Below are the official APF rules for physique surf shorts:

  • Swimsuit check at check-in (swimsuits violating rules will be penalized)
  • Regulated shorts: Must be off-the-shelf surf shorts / No logos other than those on off-the-shelf products.
  • No alterations (waist adjustment is allowed).

Source: APF Official Website

APF Officially Recommended Brand ①: ALL OUT

ALL OUT is a Japanese fitness brand that is currently gaining the most enthusiastic support from physique athletes in Japan, and is officially recommended by APF.

There are also models personally supervised by Mr. Adachi, CEO of APF, making them perfect for APF competitions.

Furthermore, it completely resolves the unique problems Japanese people face with overseas brands, such as "the length is too long when adjusted to the waist" or "excess fabric at the hem makes the legs look thin," through a rich size lineup and meticulous three-dimensional cutting.

No alterations are needed, and you get a tapered silhouette that looks great on stage the moment you buy it.

Faruk Ishimoto, an athlete, posing in ALL OUT APF model surf shorts at a competition

View Details on ALL OUT

APF Officially Recommended Brand ②: VEATM

Another brand that exudes an overwhelming presence on the APF stage is VEATM, a domestic fitness apparel brand that has seen explosive popularity in recent years.

VEATM's surf shorts are characterized by their minimalist and stylish design, as well as meticulously calculated stretch fabric that causes no stress during intense posing.

The silhouette itself is designed to be very tight and beautiful from the start, so there is no excess fabric on stage even with off-the-shelf products.

Image of VEATM physique surf shorts being worn

View Details on VEATM

How to Choose Surf Shorts for APF Physique Competitions

In physique, choosing surf shorts isn't about "just wearing whatever."

Even a physique that has been honed to its absolute limit can look dramatically different depending on the fit and design of the shorts.

Here, we will explain the "key points for choosing the perfect size" based on international rules and the latest trends, ensuring you won't make a mistake.

【Important】Choose a brand officially recommended by APF

When choosing physique surf shorts, it is most reliable to choose a brand recommended by the competition organization you are entering.

Different organizations prefer different designs and silhouettes, so in actual competitions, there are "brands commonly seen in that organization."

As mentioned earlier, VEATM and ALL OUT are frequently worn by athletes in APF (Asia Physique Federation) competitions and are officially recommended.

ALL OUT is recommended by multiple organizations and is a standard choice for stage shorts.

(ZENIX, a noteworthy new organization in 2026, also recommends ALL OUT.)

View Details on ALL OUT

View Details on VEATM

Directly Impacts Judging! The Golden Ratio for Length is "5-10cm Above the Knee"

The "length" of surf shorts is a point that is very strictly observed in physique judging. The official rules of the IFBB PRO (International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness), the world's most authoritative body, explicitly state the following:

"They must be just above the knee in length." (In judging and finals, the length of the surf shorts must be just above the knee)

Source: https://www.ifbbpro.com/rules/

While the rules on length were ambiguous when the category was first established, they are now strictly enforced. This means that both too long and too short can be subject to "deductions."

  • Too long: The lower cuts of the quadriceps are hidden, making the entire leg appear shorter.
  • Too short: Gives too casual an impression, diminishing the sophisticated atmosphere unique to physique competitions.

A length that clearly exposes the kneecap (patella) and falls approximately "5cm to 10cm above the knee" is the golden ratio that makes the legs appear longest and most powerful.

Aim for a snug fit at the waist

Equally important as length in size selection is the fit around the waist.

Looking at how top pros dress now, it is common to see waistbands tied with black-colored cords.

This creates a cinched effect on the abdomen, producing a more refined V-shape.

When choosing your waist size, pay attention to the following points:

  • Too loose (NG): It will shift during intense posing, making the lower abdomen look bad.
  • Too tight (NG): Tying it too tightly will put pressure on your abdomen, making your stomach appear to stick out.

If you are purchasing an overseas brand where trying it on in-store is difficult, thoroughly check reviews and size feedback from other athletes, aiming for a "just-fit to slightly tight" size.

Choosing Colors and Designs Based on Objective Evaluation

Beyond sizing, there are clear "criteria for winning" when it comes to choosing colors and designs.

Beginners often tend to choose "their favorite colors" or "flashy, detailed, or camouflage patterns," but the judges, not themselves, are doing the judging.

Even if it feels "good" in front of the mirror, the impression will be completely different under intense stage lighting or from the audience's perspective. Always incorporate an "objective third-party perspective" when making the final decision.

Top 5 Popular Surf Shorts Brands at APF Competitions

Popular Surf Shorts Brand at APF Competitions ①: ALL OUT

ALL OUT surf shorts are characterized by designs meticulously calculated to maximize the display of an athlete's physique on the competition stage.

Currently, two models are available, allowing athletes to choose according to their bone structure and posing style.

APF Official Endorsed & Recommended Model

ALL OUT Physique Surf Shorts APF Official Endorsed & Recommended Model

The first is the "Standard Model," which emphasizes the classic V-shape and creates a classical silhouette.

It features 24-inch models, which are rare among other brands, and can highlight the "overwhelming V-tapered silhouette" that is most highly valued in physique to the fullest extent.

Since this model is supervised by Mr. Adachi, CEO of APF, you can't go wrong with it for APF competitions.

Item ① APF Official Endorsed & Recommended Model
Main Target Organizations APF, FWJ (Beginner-Intermediate)
Price 12,000 yen (tax included)
Supervised / Recommended Supervised by CEO Adachi
Size Range 24 / 26 / 28 / 30 inches
Color Options 10 colors
Shape Features Standard model. Calculated silhouette emphasizing the V-shape.
Recommended Athletes Athletes with balanced physiques

Design List

ALL OUT Physique Surf Shorts APF Model Design List

Actual User Experience and Review

Yuyu Aikawa APF ALL OUT CHAMPIONSHIPS 2025 Street Model 1st Place, Physique Model Class 20 4th Place

APF ALL OUT CHAMPIONSHIPS 2025 Street Model 1st Place, Physique Model Class 20 4th Place

Yuyu Aikawa

What I first noticed when I wore them was the excellent fit and ease of movement! Even when striking poses on stage, the fabric didn't pull, allowing me to naturally show my body lines.

In particular, the waist design visually tightens the waist, giving the impression of an even more emphasized V-shape.

Also, as expected from a model supervised by Mr. Adachi, the CEO of APF, the length and silhouette balance were exquisite! The clean line above the knee made it easy to balance with the upper body, which I felt significantly enhanced my stage presence.

The level of completion is certainly納得の完成度, with supervision from IFBB Pro athletes and international judges, making them a reliable choice for APF competitions!

PRO Specification Model (Recommended by ZeniX)

ALL OUT Physique Surf Shorts ZeniX, IFBB International Judge Sally Sasaki Recommended Official Endorsed & Recommended Model

The second is the "High-Performance Model," which features cutting designed to accentuate even harder definition and thigh separation.

Both boast exceptional stretchability and comfort that won't hinder intense posing.

Item ② PRO Specification Model (Recommended by ZeniX)
Main Target Organizations ZeniX, FWJ, Muscle Contest, Muscle Gate, etc.
Price 12,500 yen (tax included)
Supervised / Recommended Recommended by IFBB PRO Athlete / IFBB Certified International Judge Sally Sasaki
Size Range 26 / 28 / 30 / 32 inches
Color Options 10 colors
Shape Features Uses highly elastic fabric. Accentuates developed quadriceps and maximally emphasizes the V-shape. Suitable for athletes with high muscle mass.
Recommended Athletes Athletes who want to showcase their leg muscle mass and separation

Design List

(*Designs are unified with the APF model)

ALL OUT Physique Surf Shorts Pro Model Design List

Actual User Experience and Review

Yuyu Aikawa APF ALL OUT CHAMPIONSHIPS 2025 Street Model 1st Place, Physique Model Class 20 4th Place

APF ALL OUT CHAMPIONSHIPS 2025 Street Model 1st Place, Physique Model Class 20 4th Place

Yuyu Aikawa

When I put on the PRO model, I was immediately surprised by the high stretchability of the fabric! There's absolutely no stress during twists, side poses, or other unique physique movements, which is a huge advantage as it allows me to focus on my posing.

What particularly impressed me was the cutting that beautifully highlights the lines of the quadriceps. The leg separation is naturally emphasized, making them a great match for athletes who train their legs thoroughly!

Furthermore, as a model supervised by IFBB PRO athletes and international judges, the silhouette and design are truly competition-oriented.

I also felt that the colors stand out well under stage lighting, making it easy to create a strong presence. Moreover, this model is also perfectly acceptable for use in APF competitions!

This model is highly recommended for athletes with significant muscle mass or those who want to fully showcase the completeness of their legs!

Athletes wearing ALL OUT

Faruk Ishimoto (IFBB PRO)
A top professional who competed in Olympia. He uses ALL OUT as a powerful gear that firmly supports his overwhelming bulk, proportion, and beautiful outline on stage.

Faruk Ishimoto (IFBB PRO) athlete

Yuki Kamiyama (IFBB PRO)
A professional physique athlete boasting world-class perfection. He wears ALL OUT as a symbol demonstrating the "overwhelming stage presence" that stands out even amidst strict judging criteria.

Yuki Kamiyama (IFBB PRO) athlete wearing ALL OUT

Ryohei Okada (IFBB PRO)
Known for his precise separation and stylish posing. He embodies the PRO-spec functionality that perfectly follows hard movements on his own stage.

Ryohei Okada (IFBB PRO) athlete wearing ALL OUT

Tsukaken (Kenta Tsukamoto)
A muscle influencer who boasts immense popularity and skill as "the man with Japan's best chest muscles." He has a reliable track record as the "one piece that won't fail" that he chooses for competitions, having thorough knowledge of numerous apparel.

Tsukaken (Kenta Tsukamoto) athlete wearing ALL OUT

Takumi Ishikawa (Natural IFBB PRO)
A professional who boasts a physique honed to the extreme naturally. The excellent cutting that enhances and beautifully displays intricate muscle cuts without any hindrance is highly supported.

Takumi Ishikawa (Natural IFBB PRO) athlete wearing ALL OUT

Popular Surf Shorts Brand at APF Competitions ②: VEATM

Recommended physique surf shorts brand ②: VEATM

VEATM is a brand that has seen explosive popularity in the Japanese fitness scene in recent years.

It features on-trend color block designs and gradient patterns that create an optical illusion of a slimmer waist, incorporating various innovations specifically for physique competitions.

Item VEATM Stage Shorts (Surf Shorts)
Main Target Organizations FWJ, APF, Muscle Gate, etc.
Supervised / Recommended Used by many top domestic athletes, including Ryo Terashima (IFBB PRO)
Size Range S / M / L / XL
Color Options Abundant (colors calculated for Japanese stage lighting and Protane's dark skin)
Shape Features 4-way super stretch material that smoothly follows intense posing. The knee area is designed to be tight, achieving a beautiful tapered silhouette without the need for alterations.
Recommended Athletes Athletes who prioritize range of motion in posing and want to display a refined V-shape without stress

Athletes wearing VEATM

Ryo Terashima (IFBB PRO)
He also wore VEATM surf shorts when he earned his pro card at Olympia Amateur Japan. Furthermore, he wore VEATM model surf shorts at the 2024 FWJ TOKYO PRO.

Nasuke
A popular fitness influencer. His customized models, full of his particular touches, are also available.

Actual User Experience and Review

Yuyu Aikawa APF ALL OUT CHAMPIONSHIPS 2025 Street Model 1st Place, Physique Model Class 20 4th Place

APF ALL OUT CHAMPIONSHIPS 2025 Street Model 1st Place, Physique Model Class 20 4th Place

Yuyu Aikawa

This model boasts a high level of perfection, featuring a trendy color scheme and 4-way stretch material that does not restrict the range of motion during posing. The knee area is designed to be tight, naturally aligning the leg lines and making it easy to create a refined physique silhouette.

Popular Surf Shorts Brand at APF Competitions ③: FIED

Recommended physique surf shorts brand ③: FIED
FIED is a surf shorts brand for physique that enjoys global popularity.

It features a minimal and refined design, and with its non-flashy coloring and calculated silhouette, it beautifully enhances the body lines on stage.

Its simple yet distinctive style is supported by many physique athletes.
Item FIED Competition Shorts
Main Target Organizations FWJ, APF, NABBA, etc.
Supervised / Recommended Used by IFBB PRO athletes from Korea, and top amateur competitors in Japan
Size Range 26 / 28 / 30 / 32 inches
Color Options Abundant (ranging from dark tones to gradients)
Shape Features The "strong taper" from the waist to the hem is the biggest feature. The fabric is firm, preventing sagging around the glutes during back poses and fitting snugly against the quadriceps.
Recommended Athletes Athletes who want to make their waist appear extremely thin and emphasize the volume of their legs (quadriceps) by more than a few degrees.

Athletes wearing FIED

Yuzuru Kamiya
A top-class physique athlete in Japan, known for wearing FIED surf shorts.

Actual User Experience and Review

Yuyu Aikawa

APF ALL OUT CHAMPIONSHIPS 2025 Street Model 1st Place, Physique Model Class 20 4th Place

Yuyu Aikawa

Its strong tapered design is a major feature, simultaneously emphasizing a slender waist and the volume of the quadriceps. Because the fabric has just the right amount of firmness, the silhouette doesn't lose its shape during back poses, making it suitable for athletes who want to clearly showcase their leg development.

Popular Surf Shorts Brand at APF Competitions ④: LYFT

Recommended physique surf shorts brand ④: LYFT

LYFT is a highly popular brand produced by Edward Kato.

It features stylish designs that fuse fitness and lifestyle, with refined graphics that look great not only on stage but also for casual wear at the beach or pool.

Item LÝFT Stage Shorts
Main Target Organizations FWJ, APF, etc.
Supervised / Recommended Produced and supervised by Edward Kato (IFBB PRO)
Size Range XS / S / M / L
Color Options Limited colors 맞춰서 to the competition season (national flag motifs and original patterns, etc. / many sell out immediately)
Shape Features Retains the firmness characteristic of board shorts while adding appropriate stretch. Features a substantial fabric that best highlights muscle cuts and an exquisite length a few centimeters above the knee.
Recommended Athletes Athletes who want to stand on stage with overwhelming charisma and design, wearing a stylish outfit.

Athletes wearing LYFT

Edward Kato (IFBB PRO)

Founder of LYFT and IFBB PRO Men's Physique athlete. He wears LYFT surf shorts for his own competitions and training.

Actual User Experience and Review

Yuyu Aikawa

APF ALL OUT CHAMPIONSHIPS 2025 Street Model 1st Place, Physique Model Class 20 4th Place

Yuyu Aikawa

Characterized by a substantial board shorts-like fabric and refined design. The appropriate stretch and exquisite length above the knee allow for clean muscle definition while creating a stylish impression. It's a highly popular model among athletes who prioritize design.

Popular Surf Shorts Brand at APF Competitions ⑤: CHULA WEAR

Recommended physique surf shorts brand ⑤: CHULA WEAR

CHULA WEAR is an incredibly popular brand from the USA that is currently dominating the global physique scene. Its biggest feature is its use of a "stiff, taut fabric" that deliberately reduces stretchiness.

This ensures that the fabric doesn't wrinkle or sag during intense posing, perfectly maintaining the beautiful V-tapered silhouette that spreads from the waist to the hem. It is a truly global standard of surf shorts, with an overwhelmingly high wear rate even on the Olympia stage.

Item CHULA WEAR Stage Shorts
Main Target Organizations FWJ, IFBB PRO League (Olympia, etc.) global standard
Supervised / Recommended Loved by Olympians worldwide and international IFBB PRO athletes
Size Range 26 / 28 / 30 / 32 / 34 inches
Color Options Extremely abundant (asymmetrical designs and neon colors, etc., bold color schemes unique to overseas)
Shape Features Firm, stiff fabric. Adopts the trend of "slightly shorter length (equivalent to 16-17 inches)" to create a rugged, hardcore outline like international pros.
Recommended Athletes Athletes who want to incorporate global trends and showcase their overwhelming bulk (muscle mass) and muscle density.

Athletes wearing CHULA WEAR

The top athletes of the world, champions competing in Olympia, all adore and use this brand, giving it an overwhelming brand power that makes competitors think, "I want to stand on stage wearing CHULA WEAR someday."

Ryan Terry (IFBB PRO)
The 2023 Men's Physique Olympia champion. He wore CHULA WEAR to achieve victory, as gear that highlights his world-class vacuum pose and artistic abdominal definition.

Erin Banks (IFBB PRO)
The 2022 Men's Physique Olympia champion. It contributes to creating a perfect silhouette that emphasizes his overwhelming back width and extremely narrow waist.

Other top IFBB PRO athletes from Japan and abroad
Not only top professionals worldwide, but also a very high percentage of top competitors in Japan's Pro Qualifier (Pro Card issuing competition) wear this brand, establishing it as the undisputed "surf shorts for champions."

Actual User Experience and Review

Yuyu Aikawa

APF ALL OUT CHAMPIONSHIPS 2025 Street Model 1st Place, Physique Model Class 20 4th Place

Yuyu Aikawa

Its main appeal is the firm, stiff fabric, which prevents the silhouette from losing shape even during posing. The trendy short length design creates a rugged, three-dimensional outline similar to international pros. As a world-standard high-end brand, it can be used with confidence in APF competitions.

APF Competition Regions

APF competitions are fitness events held across Japan, with a focus on Tokyo.

Competitions are held in various regions, including Kanto, Kansai, Chubu, and Tohoku, making it possible to choose a competition close to your area of residence.

In fact, many people search for competition information by combining it with region names, such as "APF Osaka" or "APF Nagoya," making the host region an important factor in choosing a competition.

Below are examples of major regions and venues where APF competitions are held:

Region Main Cities Example Venue
Osaka Osaka Fujiidera City Citizens' General Hall
Kyoto Kyoto Kyoto city halls, etc.
Nagoya Aichi (Nagoya) Nagoya Bunri University Culture Forum
Nagano Nagano Iiyama City Culture Exchange Center Natura
Kanazawa Ishikawa (Kanazawa) Hokkoku Shimbun Akahane Hall
Chiba Chiba Chiba City Cultural Center
Sendai Miyagi (Sendai) Electric Power Hall
Yokohama Kanagawa (Yokohama) Yokohama City Education Hall

As shown, APF competitions are held in various regions across the country, making it relatively easy for athletes living in rural areas to participate.

Additionally, many athletes participate in multiple competitions within the same season, allowing them to choose events based on their current condition.

What is the APF Competition? Physique Rules, Entry Methods, and Surf Shorts Explained: Summary

APF (Asia Physique Federation) is a fitness competition organization that is rapidly gaining popularity in Japan.

It is characterized by evaluating not only muscle mass but also style and stage presence—a "body for showing"—and attracts a wide range of participants from beginners to top athletes.

This article explained the APF competition, focusing on the following points:

Key points of this article

  • APF competitions are fitness events that comprehensively evaluate "muscle mass + style + stage presence."

  • Competitions are held across the country, offering year-round opportunities to compete.

  • To enter, you need to complete the process of APF Card registration → Competition entry.

  • There are First Timer / Novice classes for first-time competitors, making it easy for beginners to participate.

  • Estimated entry costs are approximately 30,000 to 50,000 yen (competition fees, coloring, apparel, etc.).

Furthermore, the choice of surf shorts is an important point in Men's Physique.

Key points for choosing surf shorts important for Physique

  • The ideal length is about 5-10 cm above the knee.

  • The waist should be a just-fit to slightly tight size.

  • Color and design selection should consider stage lighting.

  • It's safe to choose organization-recommended brands that many athletes wear in competitions.

APF competitions are appealing contests where athletes can showcase the results of their daily training on stage.

Those aiming to compete should check the competition schedule early and begin preparations such as training, weight loss, and posing practice.

Then, choose surf shorts that best highlight your physique, and challenge the APF stage in your best condition.

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[Competition Judge's Commentary] Top 5 Recommended Brands for Men's Physique Board Shorts!

Surf shorts (board shorts) that further enhance your sculpted physique on the physique stage. Are you just casually choosing, thinking, "I guess I'll just buy a popular brand..."? Actually, that's ...

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