Deciding to compete in your first bodybuilding competition is an exciting first step on a rewarding journey. But it can also be extremely daunting and a mind-blowing experience. Here are six considerations to ensure a successful and overall positive contest prep experience.

Attend as many posing seminars and bodybuilding events as possible.

You are bound to feel isolated as a first-time competitor when you start to delve into the world of competing. But there are so many opportunities to network and meet other people in the industry who can support you and help you along the way! Attend as many seminars and events as possible, so you can create a network of like-minded and positive people! Having these sorts of people around you can make a big difference when you start prep and competing!

Attend at least one show before you step on stage.

Even if you’re not 100% set on what federation you want to compete with, take a look at our bodybuilding calendar and check out a show near your local area. Understand what the day is like, how judging is done, and also see competitors in person. As often it can be deceiving seeing competitors and placings via social media.

Practise your posing as much as possible.

People often ask us how often should they be practising their posing. Our answer? As much as possible, and when you think you’ve done enough you probably haven’t even scratched the surface! You should be practising your posing way before you start your competition prep, researching online can be your start. We would recommend following people such as The Posing Pro who provide tips, advice and often offers free posing seminars. You might find that your body might not naturally twist as much as you want to when you first attempt that side pose. Your back doesn’t want to arch in the rear shot. But over time your body will start to play ball. But this along with a lot of areas in competing doesn’t happen overnight.

Don’t expect everything to go to plan and be perfect first time.

 As much as we all want everything to go smoothly, sometimes you won’t get the placing you want, shows might overrun, you might mess up a transition. But that’s how you learn and grow in this sport. You can’t expect to be better if you’re always ‘perfect’. The less you stress out, the more you will enjoy the process and learn along the way.

Don’t look at yourself and compare to others

It’s too easy to pull up social media, look at other competitors and start comparing yourself to them. Don’t torture yourself in trying to work out who’s going to be doing your show or why you don’t look like your favourite British Champion or IFBB Pro yet. You need to remember that the girls you’re looking at have potentially been competing for years and have worked hard every time to improve and get to that. Just focus on you and the improvements YOU are making. This is your first run, give yourself some credit! 

Listen to podcasts that can educate you on all areas of competing and keep you motivated throughout your prep

Because what better way to get through your cardio than listening to something motivating?! Not only will listening to podcasts be a good way to get through cardio sessions or journeys to work, but you’ll also be educating yourself on all things competing and keeping your mindset focused and excited for the journey you’re on! Check out the podcast ‘Not Just A Bikini Girl’ for all things competing and interviews with athletes!