Am I ready to compete? A pre-contest preparation checklist.

Entering a contest preparation phase for competitive bodybuilding is as much of a mental endeavor as it is physical. Both body and mind must be in a healthy and stable place before one considers subjecting themselves to such an extreme mental and physical challenge. I will organize the remainder of this article into 4 key areas of consideration when deciding if you are ready to compete.

Mental

☑ I have positive coping mechanisms for negative thoughts, feelings, and emotions

☑ I do not view dieting or contest preparation as a means to “fixing” myself

☑ I have a coach that I trust and can communicate with openly

☑ I have realistic expectations about what I will accomplish in this contest prep that I have discussed with my coach

☑ I understand that although there are objective measures in bodybuilding (muscularity, leanness, presentation, etc), as a whole it is a subjective endeavor and that my placing in no way dictates the worth of this experience

☑ I have no major life stressors or events currently or that I can predict coming up within the span of my contest prep

Physical

☑ I am cleared by my physician if I have any medical condition(s) that may be negatively influenced by the stress of a contest preparation

☑ I am in good overall physical health 

☑ I have been consistently training for over one year and I am able to adhere to a nutrition AND training plan without major deviations

☑ I have NOT just undergone a prolonged fat loss phase

☑ I am able to maintain my current weight without extreme caloric restriction or excess amounts of physical activity

☑ I am willing to get bloodwork done to ensure health markers are in a good place before and after competing (this goes for ALL competitors whether natural or not)

☑ I have a good sleeping schedule that allows for adequate rest every night

Social

☑ I am prepared to deal with constant questions and or criticism of my endeavors

☑ I am ready to bring my own food or possibly fast as social events 

☑ I am willing to have to choose this pursuing this goal over attending social events if necessary

☑ I have family and friends that understand and support me (ideally)

Financial 

☑ I understand that competition costs can add up quickly and will be prepared for all costs

☑ I am understand that these are just some of the possible costs of competing:

• Coaching fees

• Gym membership

• Food/supplements

• Posing coach

• Competition entrance fee

• Fee to maintain yearly membership for the organization you compete in (NPC, OCB, etc)

• Travel/accommodation

• Female competitors: makeup, hair, nails

• All competitors: posing suits, spray tanning

• Time off for competition or travel

Send any questions or comments to: alexis@akumatraining.com