What Is the FWJ Competition? From How to Enter to Physique Rules and How to Choose Surf Shorts: A Thorough Explanation

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執筆者

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

相川優友

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。

監修者

フィットネス系ブランド

ALLOUT 公式編集部

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。

FWJ (Fitness World Japan) is the largest fitness competition organization in Japan, boasting overwhelming popularity and a rapidly growing number of participants.

It features various categories such as Men's Physique and Bodybuilding, with large-scale competitions held nationwide throughout the year.

However, many people considering entering an FWJ competition for the first time may have questions such as:

• What kind of competition is FWJ?

• When and where are the competitions held?

• How do I enter and what are the costs?

• Which surf shorts should I choose for physique?

This article will provide an easy-to-understand explanation for beginners, covering the characteristics of FWJ competitions, competition schedules, entry methods, necessary expenses, preparation for competitions, and how to choose surf shorts.

In this article, we will thoroughly explore FWJ competitions and the "ALL OUT" editorial team 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 time of article creation. Please note that current prices may differ.

What is FWJ?

FWJ stands for "Fitness World Japan" and is one of the most influential and rapidly growing fitness competition organizations in Japan.

Previously active under the name "NPCJ," it has now been renamed FWJ and is working to promote fitness competitions and support athletes from a more global perspective.

Characteristics of FWJ Competitions

The biggest feature of FWJ competitions is their ability to combine "a direct path to the world's highest stage" with "overwhelming entertainment value."

It is a competition that evaluates not only muscle mass and conditioning to the extreme, but also overall presentation and physique on stage, making it an extremely entertaining and highly competitive event within fitness competitions.

Furthermore, the stage production is incredibly spectacular, featuring giant screens, lighting, and music by a DJ, and the emcee enthusiastically energizes the venue. It is immensely popular as a competition with strong show elements that spectators can enjoy together.

FWJ features detailed class divisions to make it easy for beginners to participate, offering a wide range of categories for first-time competitors who can only enter once in their lifetime, as well as height-based and age-based classes.

Therefore, it attracts a wide range of participants, from "first-time fitness competition entrants" to "top-level athletes aiming for an IFBB Pro card."

Another attractive point is that competitions are held throughout the year across the country, and athletes can also travel to and compete in regional competitions outside their place of residence.

Differences from Other Fitness Competitions

There are various fitness competition organizations, each with different judging criteria and competition atmospheres.

The table below summarizes the differences from major fitness organizations in Japan.

Compared to other organizations, FWJ tends to pursue "world-standard physique as defined by the IFBB Pro League," emphasizing bulk (muscle mass), extreme conditioning, and the perfection of the V-taper, making it a highly competitive event.

There are also clear differences in posing.

While JBBF requires four poses (front, two side, back), FWJ Men's Physique is primarily judged on only two poses: "front" and "back," making the perfection of these two positions extremely important.

What is FWJ Physique? Explaining the Competition Content

FWJ Physique is a competition category where participants wear surf shorts (board shorts) and compete on the development of their upper body muscles, body balance, and aesthetic silhouette.

Key judging points include an "overwhelming V-shaped upper body," an "extremely tight waist," and "round shoulders (deltoids)."

While the thighs are covered by surf shorts and are not the primary focus of judging, the definition of the calves, as well as overall demeanor and personality, are also evaluated.

In addition to Physique, FWJ competitions host several other categories, including the following:

Among these, Men's Physique boasts an overwhelming number of competitors and is an extremely popular category, with the most athletes entering in each competition.

A physique like that of bodybuilding, where specific body parts are excessively developed, is instead penalized in physique competitions.

FWJ also offers special categories that families and children can participate in, such as:

• Kids Physique

• Family Physique

• Favorite Athlete

• Men's Fitness Model

Main FWJ Competition Schedule

FWJ competitions are mainly held from March to December across Japan.

The season kicks off in spring, followed by a concentration of large-scale regional competitions and Pro Qualifiers (competitions to earn a Pro card) in the summer, leading up to events like the Legend Classic towards the end of the year, where top finishers from various competitions gather.

Below is the main FWJ competition schedule for 2026, organized based on the official FWJ website.

A characteristic of FWJ competitions is that they are held like a national tour across various regions.

• March–May: Season opener and top-tier gateway competitions

• June–August: Intense period for regional large-scale competitions and Pro Qualifiers

• September–October: Large regional competitions and adjustment period for skilled athletes

• November–December: The highest-level showdowns to conclude the season

With such a meticulously planned annual schedule, athletes can strategically choose which competitions to enter based on their peak condition and place of residence.

Which FWJ Competition Should I Enter? Competition Level List

FWJ official rules state that there is no level division for the competitions themselves, such as "certain competitions are only for beginners" or "this competition is for advanced athletes."

In FWJ, levels are clearly divided by the "category (class) entered" within each competition, not by the competition itself. Below are the main class divisions for Men's Physique.

• First Challenge (Limited to entirely first-time competitors – only once in a lifetime)

• Novice Challenge (Ultra-beginner class – no top 6 finishes in Open category previously – up to twice in a lifetime)

• Novice (Beginner to intermediate class – a fiercely contested gateway to physique)

• Revenge (Limited to athletes who have not placed in the top 5 in Open previously or won in other classes)

• Local (Limited to athletes residing, studying, or working in the host prefecture and adjacent prefectures)

• Masters (Age-based class, such as 40 and older)

• Open (Advanced/veteran class open to all. Leads to the path of IFBB Pro)

Therefore, regardless of which FWJ regional or major competition it is, if classes like "First Challenge" or "Novice" are offered, the other competitors will be at a similar beginner level, so you can participate with complete peace of mind.

How to Enter FWJ Competitions

To participate in an FWJ competition, you cannot simply show up on the day. You must complete a strict online entry procedure through the official website in advance.

How to Enter FWJ Competitions

STEP1 Decide which competition to enter

First, decide which competition and class you will enter.

• Check the FWJ official website's contest page

• Check dates, locations, and categories

• Choose a competition based on your cutting schedule and travel distance

Competitions are held nationwide from spring to winter, so it is crucial to choose a competition that aligns with your peak condition.

Many athletes even travel to distant regional competitions (competition tours) specifically to aim for a top finish.

STEP2 Create an FWJ Card (membership registration)

To participate in FWJ competitions, registration for an FWJ Card is an absolute prerequisite.

• Select "FWJ Card Registration" from the official FWJ website to register as a member

• A "My Page" will be created after registration

• Registration fee: 11,000 yen (tax included, as of 2026)

• Validity: 1 year from the registration date (January 1 to December 31)

You cannot enter competitions without this FWJ Card, so you must register for it first.

It's not just a competition passport; it also comes with benefits such as significant discounts on visitor fees at affiliated fitness gyms (e.g., POWERHOUSE GYM, where the usual 3,300 yen becomes 1,500 yen).

STEP3 Enter the competition

Once you have created your FWJ card, the next step is to enter a competition.

• Log in to your FWJ My Page

• Click the "Apply" button on the dedicated page for the competition you wish to enter

• Select your desired category(ies) (multiple selections are possible)

• Enter the required information and complete payment (e.g., credit card)

From 2026, FWJ has significantly revamped its system to reduce the burden on athletes, revising entry fees to be among the lowest in the industry.

Additionally, a "combo bonus" system has been introduced, offering further discounts when entering multiple categories simultaneously.

Once the application is complete, if your My Page status changes, your entry is confirmed.

FWJ Competition Entry Fees

To participate in an FWJ competition, several preparation costs are required. The main expenses include the "FWJ Card registration fee," "competition entry fee," "body coloring fee," and "surf shorts for the competition."

Below is an estimate of the main costs required to participate in an FWJ competition (based on the new fee structure for 2026).

For Men's Physique, wearing surf shorts that comply with competition regulations is mandatory, so if you are competing for the first time, you will also need to purchase surf shorts.

A backstage pass is a special access pass for support staff such as trainers or friends to enter the waiting room.

Many athletes purchase it to assist with pumping up, last-minute coloring checks, and emotional support.

Furthermore, to prevent the loss of muscle definition under the intense stage lighting of FWJ, coloring by an authorized vendor using products like ProTan is essential.

FWJ strictly prohibits coloring procedures performed outside of FWJ-authorized coloring salons and the use of self-tanning lotions to prevent venue contamination.

Violation will result in disqualification, so be sure to get the treatment from a designated vendor (such as RcmHealthy Bronze, Luxy Bronze, Ange) by the day before the competition.

In total, the initial preparation costs for a first-time FWJ competitor generally amount to approximately 50,000 to 60,000 yen.

Considering supplements for conditioning and potentially travel and accommodation expenses depending on the competition, it's reassuring to prepare with ample time and resources.

Preparation for FWJ Competitions

To participate in an FWJ competition, not only do you need to register, but you also need to undergo rigorous and meticulous preparation for the competition day.

In FWJ, which sets world standards, not only physical conditioning but also posing and stage presentation are important evaluation points that can determine your ranking. Therefore, it is crucial to prepare thoroughly in advance.

Conditioning

Weight Loss (Diet and Depletion)

For fitness competitions, especially FWJ physique, a lean condition where the skin adheres tightly to the muscles, meaning minimal subcutaneous fat and clear muscle definition, is an absolute requirement.

Typically, athletes start a planned weight loss phase 3-4 months before the competition, meticulously counting macronutrients to optimize their condition.

In the days leading up to the competition, most athletes use advanced techniques like "carb depletion" and "carb loading" to control water, salt, and carbohydrate intake, aiming to make their muscles appear full and hard.

It is crucial to reduce body fat while maintaining muscle mass, so it's important to approach this strategically with a scientific method rather than extreme fasting.

Posing Practice

In FWJ Men's Physique, athletes perform poses on stage to showcase their body balance and physique.

Therefore, posing practice is necessary before the competition.

The competition is judged based on only two mandatory poses: the front pose and the back pose.

The extent of latissimus dorsi spread, the prominence of the teres major, and the ability to create a narrow waist in these two positions significantly influence the ranking.

Additionally, during judging, multiple athletes are compared in a "call-out judging" format.

Since the perfection of posing can drastically change how the body appears, many athletes practice in front of a mirror or attend seminars led by FWJ-certified posing instructors to receive objective posing guidance.

Items Required on Stage

Surf Shorts (Board Shorts)

In the Men's Physique category, surf shorts are worn on stage. Surf shorts are not just an outfit; they are a crucial tool that can enhance the beauty of the body's silhouette and cover weaknesses.

For example, the design and cutting can make the waist appear slimmer, or the exquisite length can emphasize the length of the legs. Therefore, the choice of surf shorts can significantly alter the judges' first impression on stage.

Furthermore, FWJ competitions have strict regulations regarding the length, wearing position, and material of surf shorts, compliant with IFBB rules. Thus, it is necessary to choose surf shorts that meet competition standards.

For this reason, most top athletes competing in FWJ Physique do not use casual swimwear, but rather surf shorts from brands specifically designed and meticulously calculated for physique competitions.

In Men's Physique, the choice of surf shorts can dramatically change how the waist appears slim and legs appear long, making them a highly important piece of gear among competitors.

Coloring (Spray Tanning)

In fitness competitions, coloring is applied to clearly highlight muscle definition.

By deepening the skin tone to a rich brown, striations (muscle fibers) in the pectorals and the crevices of the abs become more prominent under stage lighting, emphasizing the three-dimensional quality of the body.

As mentioned earlier, for FWJ competitions, authorized coloring vendors are designated, and any other usage will result in disqualification. Therefore, it is extremely important to check the competition guidelines and book an appointment in advance.

Official Rules for Physique Shorts in FWJ Competitions

To compete on the FWJ stage, it is essential to have a complete understanding of the official rules regarding surf shorts.

Even a slight deviation from the regulations can result in penalties during judging, and in the worst-case scenario, disqualification or removal from the stage. Below are the main regulations set by FWJ for Men's Physique attire (surf shorts).

• Must be off-the-rack products: Board shorts (surf shorts) purchased off the rack must be worn. Self-sewn or custom-made items are not allowed (waist adjustment is permitted). Company logos are allowed.

• Wearing position: Must be worn at a position where "the lower abdomen is clearly visible (approx. 2.5 cm below the navel)." High-waist (closer to the navel) is the current trend and recommended. If the front portion is too low (excessive low-rise), a warning will be issued during check-in, and if not corrected, it will be subject to deduction.

• Length: Must be just above the knee, approximately 5 cm above the knee. Too short, exposing too much thigh, or too long, completely covering the knee, is not allowed.

• Shape and fit: A tapered silhouette (narrower at the bottom) is ideal. Loose-fitting or baggy shorts are not allowed. Extremely small fabric items like thongs are also prohibited.

• Material restrictions: 100% stretchy types (all-spandex material) are prohibited. However, "items with partial spandex material" are permitted to support ease of movement during posing.

• Other strict requirements: Underwear must absolutely not be visible from beneath the shorts.

To clear all these strict rules and showcase the body's beauty to the maximum, top athletes competing in FWJ strongly recommend specific "competition-specialized brands."

Competition-Specific Brand ①: ALL OUT

ALL OUT is a Japanese fitness brand that is currently gaining the most enthusiastic support and trust from professional and amateur physique athletes in Japan.

It completely resolves the issues unique to Japanese physiques, such as "too long when matched to the waist" or "hems bunching up and making legs look thin," which are common with overseas brands, through extensive size variations (starting from 24 inches) and meticulous three-dimensional tailoring.

No alterations are needed, and you can achieve a beautiful tapered silhouette that meets FWJ's strict standards.

Competition-Specific Brand ②: VEATM

Another brand that has an overwhelming presence on the FWJ stage and has recently gained explosive popularity is the domestic fitness apparel brand VEATM.

VEATM's surf shorts are characterized by a stylish design that eliminates all unnecessary elements and meticulously engineered partial stretch material that allows for intense posing without any stress.

The silhouette itself is designed to be very tight and aesthetically pleasing from the start, so there is no excess fabric on stage even without alterations.

How to Choose Surf Shorts for FWJ Physique Competitions

In physique, choosing surf shorts isn't just about "meeting the rules and being able to wear them."

Even a physique meticulously sculpted over months can be perceived drastically differently by judges based on the fit and design of the shorts.

Here, we will explain the key points for choosing the right size without fail, based on world-standard IFBB rules and the latest FWJ trends.

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

The "length of surf shorts" is a crucial point that is very strictly evaluated in physique judging, and it is a lifeline that affects overall proportion.

The official rules of the IFBB PRO (International Federation of Bodybuilding and Fitness), the most authoritative body in the world, state the following:

"They must be just above the knee in length."

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

The rule for length, which was ambiguous at the beginning of the category, is now strictly enforced. This means that both too long and too short can lead to "deductions."

• Too long (NG): The lower part of the quadriceps (teardrop) and the kneecap are completely hidden, making the legs appear shorter overall and giving the impression of a long torso and short legs.

• Too short (NG): If too much thigh is exposed, it can create a too casual look, like classic physique, and diminish the sophisticated "stylishness on the beach" unique to physique competitions.

A length that allows the kneecap to be clearly visible, typically "5cm to 10cm above the knee," is the golden ratio for making the legs appear longest and most muscular.

Aim for a Moderate Fit at the Waist

Just as important as length when choosing a size is the fit around the waist. As indicated in FWJ regulations, observing current top professionals, the trend is to wear them high-waisted (just below the navel), with a dark-colored waist and tie-string closure.

This helps to cinch the abdomen, creating a more refined V-taper.

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

• Too loose (NG): During intense twisting poses, they might shift, making the lower abdomen appear sloppy, or underwear might show.

• Too tight (NG): Forcibly tying them can put pressure on the abdomen, making skin or fat bulge over the shorts, which can paradoxically make the stomach appear to protrude.

If you're buying overseas brands where trying them on in-store is difficult, thoroughly check other athletes' reviews and size feedback, aiming for a size that's "just right to slightly tight."

It's most reliable to choose brands that offer fine size increments like 24 inches.

Objectively Evaluate Color and Design

Beyond just the fit, there's a clear winning strategy in choosing colors and designs.

Beginners often tend to choose "their favorite color" or "eye-catching flamboyant patterns or intricate camouflage," but it is the judges, not yourself, who evaluate.

Even if it looks "good" in the mirror, it can appear completely different under intense stage lighting, from the audience's angle, and in contrast with dark-tanned (ProTan) skin.

Light pastel colors or overly complex all-over patterns can become blurry under strong lighting, posing the risk of making your physique lines ambiguous.

For this reason, always seek a "third-party objective perspective" for your final decision. Primary colors like black, red, and deep blue, asymmetrical designs with darker waist accents (black or navy), or gradient designs that utilize optical illusions to visually slim the waist are recommended.

5 Recommended Surf Short Brands for FWJ Competitions

Recommended Surf Short Brand for FWJ Competitions ①: ALL OUT

ALL OUT surf shorts feature a design meticulously crafted to maximize an athlete's physique on the competition stage.

Currently, there are two models available, allowing athletes to choose based on their body structure and posing style.

APF Certified and Recommended Model

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

It features a 24-inch model, uncommon in other brands, that can accentuate the "overwhelming V-shaped silhouette" most highly valued in physique competitions like no other.

Item	① APF Certified and Recommended Model
Main Target Organizations	APF, FWJ (Beginner to Intermediate)
Price	12,000 yen (tax included)
Supervised/Recommended By	Supervised by CEO Adachi
Size Range	24 / 26 / 28 / 30 inches
Color Range	10 colors
Shape Characteristics	Standard model. Meticulously designed silhouette emphasizing the V-taper.
Recommended Athletes	Balanced athletes

Design List

Actual Use Experience and Reviews

PRO Specification Model (ZeniX Recommended)

The second is the "High-Performance Model," featuring a cutting designed to highlight harder conditioning and thigh separation.

Both boast overwhelming stretchability and comfort that do not hinder intense posing.

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

Athletes Wearing ALL OUT

Farouk Ishimoto (IFBB PRO)
A top professional who competed in Olympia. ALL OUT is cherished as gear that strongly supports his overwhelming bulk and proportion, and his beautiful physique on stage.

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

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

Tsukaken (Kenta Tsukamoto)
A popular fitness influencer boasting immense popularity and skill as "the man with Japan's best pectoral muscles." He has extensive knowledge of various athletic wear, and ALL OUT holds a firm reliability as his choice for a "never-fail item" for competitions.

Takumi Ishikawa (Natural IFBB PRO)
A professional boasting a natural physique honed to its extreme. The excellent cutting is praised for beautifully showcasing his meticulous muscle definition without any hindrance.

Recommended Surf Short Brand for FWJ Competitions ②: VEATM

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

It features trendy color block designs and optical illusion gradients that make the waist appear slimmer, with various innovations specifically tailored for physique competitions.

Item	VEATM Stage Shorts (Surf Shorts)
Main Target Organizations	FWJ, APF, Muscle Gate, etc.
Supervised/Recommended By	Widely used by top domestic athletes, including Ryo Terashima (IFBB PRO)
Size Range	S / M / L / XL
Color Range	Abundant (colors designed to show up well under Japanese stage lighting and dark tanned skin)
Shape Characteristics	4-way ultra-stretch material that smoothly follows intense posing. Tightly designed around the knees, allowing for a beautiful tapered silhouette without alterations.
Recommended Athletes	Athletes who prioritize range of motion in posing and want to showcase a refined V-taper 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 FWJ TOKYO PRO in 2024.

Na-suke
Popular fitness influencer. Special custom models reflecting his specific preferences are also available.

Recommended Surf Short Brand for FWJ Competitions ③: FIED

Item	FIED Competition Shorts
Main Target Organizations	FWJ, Muscle Contest, NABBA, etc.
Supervised/Recommended By	Used by IFBB PRO athletes in Korea, and top amateur competitors domestically
Size Range	26 / 28 / 30 / 32 inches
Color Range	Abundant (ranging from dark tones to gradients)
Shape Characteristics	The most distinctive feature is the "extreme taper" from the waist to the hem. The fabric has firmness, preventing bunching at the glutes during back poses and adhering tightly to the quadriceps.
Recommended Athletes	Athletes who want to make their waist appear extremely thin and emphasize the volume of their legs (quadriceps) by several folds.

Athletes Wearing FIED

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

Recommended Surf Short Brand for FWJ Competitions ④: LYFT

LYFT is an extremely popular brand produced by Edward Kato.

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

Item	LÝFT Stage Shorts
Main Target Organizations	FWJ, APF, etc.
Supervised/Recommended By	Produced and supervised by Edward Kato (IFBB PRO)
Size Range	XS / S / M / L
Color Range	Limited edition colors released seasonally (flag motifs, original patterns, etc. / many sell out quickly)
Shape Characteristics	Retains the firmness characteristic of board shorts while adding appropriate stretch. Features a heavy-duty fabric that best highlights muscle definition and an exquisite length a few centimeters above the knee.
Recommended Athletes	Athletes who want to exude overwhelming charisma and design flair, and step onto the stage with stylish attire.

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.

Recommended Surf Short Brand for FWJ Competitions ⑤: CHULA WEAR

CHULA WEAR is an incredibly popular brand from the US that is currently dominating the global physique scene. Its biggest feature is its use of a "stiff, firm fabric" that deliberately limits stretchability.

This ensures that the fabric doesn't bunch or wrinkle even during intense posing, maintaining a perfect, beautiful V-shaped silhouette from the waist down. These are truly world-standard surf shorts, worn by an overwhelming number of competitors on the Olympia stage.

Item	CHULA WEAR Stage Shorts
Main Target Organizations	FWJ, IFBB PRO League (Olympia, etc.) World Standard
Supervised/Recommended By	Loved by Olympians and international IFBB PRO athletes worldwide
Size Range	26 / 28 / 30 / 32 / 34 inches
Color Range	Very abundant (asymmetrical designs, neon colors, and other bold color schemes unique to international brands)
Shape Characteristics	Firm, stiff fabric. Adopts the trendy "slightly shorter length (equivalent to 16-17 inches)," creating a rugged, hardcore physique line like overseas professionals.
Recommended Athletes	Athletes who want to incorporate world-standard trends and emphasize their overwhelming bulk (muscle mass) and muscle density.

Athletes Wearing CHULA WEAR

The top champions competing at Olympia universally favor this brand, giving it an overwhelming brand power that makes competitors aspire to "someday stand on stage wearing CHULA WEAR."

Ryan Terry (IFBB PRO)
Men's Physique Olympia champion in 2023. He wore CHULA WEAR as gear that highlighted his world-class vacuum pose and artistic abdominal definition, reaching the pinnacle of the sport.

Erin Banks (IFBB PRO)
Men's Physique Olympia champion in 2022. The shorts contributed to creating a perfect silhouette that emphasized his impressive back width and extremely narrow waist.

Other top IFBB PRO athletes, both domestic and international
Not only top professionals worldwide, but also a very high percentage of top finishers in Japanese Pro Qualifiers (Pro card granting competitions) wear this brand, establishing it as "surf shorts for champions."

FWJ Competition Hosting Regions

FWJ competitions are a major strength, as they are held not only in the Kanto area, centered in Tokyo, but also cover major cities nationwide, from Hokkaido in the north to Okinawa in the south.

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

Many people actually search for competition information by combining a region name with "FWJ," such as "FWJ Osaka" or "FWJ Nagoya," indicating that the hosting region is an important factor in choosing a competition.

Even regional competitions feature FWJ's distinctive flashy staging and promotions, and top professionals sometimes attend as guest posers.

Below are examples of main regions and venues where FWJ competitions are held (from the 2026 schedule).

FWJ competitions are held across the country, making them relatively accessible for athletes residing in regional areas.

Furthermore, many athletes participate in multiple competitions within the same season, and by utilizing the Open class, which has no residency restrictions, they can strategically choose their travel destinations (competition tours) based on their own condition.

What is FWJ Competition? Summary of Physique Rules, Entry Methods, and Surf Shorts

FWJ (Fitness World Japan) is a fitness competition organization that boasts overwhelming popularity and recognition in Japan, attracting enthusiasts from beginners to professionals.

It is characterized by evaluating not only muscle mass and conditioning, but also style, physique, and stage presence based on "world standards," and its highly entertaining stage attracts many spectators and athletes.

This article primarily explained the following points about FWJ competitions:

Key points of this article

• FWJ competitions are the pinnacle of fitness competitions, comprehensively evaluating "muscle mass + ultimate conditioning + IFBB standard physique."

• Competitions are held in major cities nationwide, offering ample opportunities to compete throughout the year.

• To participate, FWJ card registration (11,000 yen) → competition entry (5,360 yen~) is an absolute prerequisite, requiring prior online procedures.

• First Challenge / Novice classes for first-time competitors are finely categorized, making it easy for beginners to participate according to their level.

• Estimated initial costs for participation are approximately 50,000 to 60,000 yen (card registration, competition entry, authorized coloring, wear, etc.)

Furthermore, in the highly popular Men's Physique category, the choice of surf shorts (board shorts) is an extremely critical factor that can determine victory or defeat.

Key points for choosing surf shorts important for FWJ Physique

• The ideal length is just above the knee (approx. 5cm above the knee) to make the legs appear longer.

• The waist should be high-waisted and fit just right to slightly tight for the best look.

• Choosing colors and designs that account for the contrast with stage lighting and ProTan (dark skin) is important.

• Choosing competition-specific brands like ALL OUT or VEATM, which are actually worn by IFBB PROs and fully comply with FWJ rules, ensures you won't go wrong.

The FWJ competition is a uniquely attractive event where you can showcase the results of your arduous training and strict diet amidst the best production and cheers.

If you are aiming to participate, start by checking the competition schedule and locations early, and prepare systematically with planned dieting, front and back posing practice, and authorized coloring reservations.

Then, confidently challenge the FWJ stage in surf shorts meticulously designed to make your sculpted body look its most beautiful and powerful, in your best condition.