TDF Magazine Vol. 2 | Página 18

elson y Hadley N b You have decided to do your first figure competition, and everyone in your life is supportive. You are motivated to take on 90 days of prepping food and hours a day in the gym. As an experienced competitor, here are three things I think you should now consider as you make you entrance into the competition world. 1. You cannot do this alone! You need a coach and a team. Currently, you are eating a healthy diet, workout regularly and have no problem maintaining a fun social life. So, how could training for a show be any different? Your diet will become stricter and the training will become harder the closer you come to your competition date. Before competition prep, you were able to have a cheat meal once a week; But while preparing for a show, everything you put in your mouth and every second at the gym counts. Joining your friends for happy hour while sipping on water will become increasingly difficult. You will determine that it is easier to forgo social outings all together.You may become lonely. There may be tears, panic attacks, and moments of defeat. This is why it is so important to have a training coach and team for that 90 day period. They will become your family, friends, and support system. When you feel like quitting, these people will pull you up by your running shoe strings and kick you back into gear. 2. Ask yourself : Are you prepared for the world to see your bikini-clad body or for a Google search of your name to result in a picture of your booty? Figure competitions are filmed and photographed by multiple companies, as well as many spectators. After you submit your application and pay your fees, you will also consent to the use of your image. Your time on stage will be well documented. While you will look amazing, it is something that present and future employers may not approve. Consider the potential consequences before committing to walking across that stage.