Why is this class based on weight vs. height? Because they are based on weight, how many different physiques are you going to get in terms of looks. In addition, you have guys like Kevin English that suck themselves down make weight but we know he is no where near 202 onstage and closer to 215.
If you have it based on height say 5'5 and under it gives guys room to grow and not be penalized for putting on more muscle. and have to lose the hard earned muscle.
The reason I say 5'5 is because Dex is 5'6 Ronnie Rockel is 5'6 and they are competitive in the open shows. The only other people under 5'6 that have been competitive under 5'6 recently are Dave Henry and Lee Priest.
These guys reach a point to where they will be penalized for putting on muscle and the natural progression would be to move to the open but would they really be competitive at being 10lbs over 202? Probably not. Height is a better basis. You will see a lot of different kind of bodies to look at.
1. Weight classes are used in the NPC, the pro's should mirror the amateurs in terms of classes, etc.
2. Height classes would still give the taller guy the advantage, and thus, not really accomplish what we set out to do.
3. most guys arent at the top of the 202 limit, they're anywhere from the 70's on up from what I've seen...
4. It's 202 because that was the number suggested most at the meeting, I personally think it should be 205 (to allow for a 7 lb. gain for a lt. heavy guy)