I always used to look through magazines like Oxygen & Muscle & Fitness Hers & admire the women on those pages. I always wanted to look like them, but I had no idea what it would take to get there. The models in those magazines make it seem so effortless to look that way. Catch phrases like "Just workout 3 times a week for 6 weeks and get these abs!" lure us into thinking that it should be simple to achieve that fitness model look. I never thought about the fact that those models are paid to make themselves look like they stay that way all year round & are never hungry or grouchy...but that is not reality!Granted, getting that look is attainable, but not necessarily sustainable for a long period of time. Our bodies need rest from the hardcore dieting & cardio sessions it takes to get that lean & ripped! Fitness models, figure, and bodybuilding competitors eat clean for months on end (no cheat meals at all!), they do hours upon hours of cardio, and train with an immense intensity in the gym 5-7 days a week for as long as they need to get their bodies sculpted to perfection.
So, why do people put themselves through all of this season after season?.......
The answer is simple- The Love of The Sport. There really is no feeling like the one you get when you're on stage presenting all of your hard work to crowds of cheering people. It makes every sacrifice you've made all season long seem validated.
But, how do you know if you should compete? There are several common factors in all of the competitors I have talked to on this subject and here are some questions you should ask yourself:
1. Are you a competitive person by nature? Does the thought of someone else putting in the work while you're watching TV get you moving?
2. Do you need a goal to motivate you to get in the best shape of your life?
3. Are you willing to sacrifice your social life in terms of eating out, drinking alcohol, and staying out late to attain your physical best?
4. Are you willing to put in all the hard work (dieting, training, posing conditioning, & cardio sessions) and still be sweet to & make time for your significant other, kids, family, and friends?
5. Lastly, does your family support you or do you have a support system in place? It's essential that you have encouragement from your loved ones & even your co-workers because temptation really is everywhere. One slip-up during your competition prep can set you back weeks!
If you answered yes to all the questions above, then the sport of bodybuilding & figure could be a perfect fit. Keep in mind that if you answered "maybe" or "no" to any of them, it would be in your best interest to wait & compete at a later date. This sport is gratifying & fun, but if your mind isn't there, then it will just end up being a miserable punishment for everyone involved!
For more advice, check out my other blogs.
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