All competitors are drug-free. All live normal lives, i.e. they have families, jobs, mortgages, car payments and kids. Yes, they do have excellent genetics, but it still takes a great deal of hard work and dedication to reach the shape they were in. If you compare these people to the drug-assisted photos of pro bodybuilders you see in muscle magazines, it becomes obvious that bodybuilding done naturally is a tremendous pursuit that will make you stronger, healthier and, of course, more attractive.

There are two things that set ACBA shows apart. The first is the extremely fair-minded judging. The panel doesn’t care who you are – you could be their best friend -- either you present a good package or the other person wins. There are no politics involved in the decisions.

Secondly, contestants are not allowed to have posing music with any profanity. This is actually beneficial because rather than acid rock or bad rap, contestants bring music to which they can actually pose!

Third, the audience is instructed to applaud all contestants for their hard work and grit. No booing is allowed for any reason whatsoever. All this makes for an extremely enjoyable contest for all concerned.

For a personal trainer who has a client who would like to compete for the very first time and happens to live near either Los Angeles or Long Beach, the above criteria create the ideal venue. However these shows are not solely for beginners. Many of the competitors place well in NPC shows and bring some of the best natural physiques seen on any stage.

DOLFZINE® would like to congratulate all the competitors for participating in this show, the judges for doing a great job, and to Promoter Butch Dennis for his unflagging faith, hard work and energy in making sure the show ran smoothly.

The next Long Beach Muscle Classic is now being planned for Saturday, April 12, 3003. If you’re interested in obtaining more information or being a sponsor, please contact Butch Dennis at butwan@pacbell.net. The 2003 Baldwin Hills show will be held in mid-October, the date yet to be announced.