10 things you should know before you start bodybuilding

The chiseled physiques, sparkly suits and obnoxious tan are what people see on stage, but do you know what bodybuilders do to get to that point? First, check out my bodybuilding experience. If you are still interested in bodybuilding, check out this list before you sacrifice your soul decide to hit the stage.

1. The commitment is almost like another job.

Another bodybuilder once told me that you should only start prep if you are 110% committed. During my prep for my first show, I had a hard time balancing work, grad school, and prep and it took me some time to figure out how to manage everything. Choose a time that works best you, not the other way around to be able to manage this grueling process. Unless you are a pro or an influencer, you do not make money from bodybuilding. My decision to compete is based on my work schedule.

2. Decide which category and organization you want to compete in.

Be aware of the rules, requirements, and judging criteria since they can differ between organizations. I compete in the National Physique Committee (NPC) in women’s figure.

If you are not sure what category you should do, consider you current body type and the category that speaks to you. I competed in figure since I already had substantial muscle on my frame and I personally liked it more than bikini.

3. You will spend a lot of money.

Based on the amount I spent on coaching, food, organization and competition registration fees, the posing suit, tan, travel, and hair/makeup, I could have went on a very nice vacation. However, you get what you pay for most of the things I mentioned. Out of all of the things to spend your money on, I recommend investing in a quality coach since they will make or break your experience.

4. Diet is key.

Cardio is only part of the equation for weight loss. If it has calories, it should be logged. Sneaking in food probably will not do much the first time, but it will show up later if you continue. Also be prepared to bring your own food, be a server’s worse nightmare, or miss social events because you don’t want to mess up your meal plan or macros. You also might want to consider bringing the food scale with you.

5. Posing is crucial.

Stage presence is an important, yet overlooked component. Sometimes the best physique does not win, but the best posing does. I recommend investing in a posing coach to help you learn the correct posing for your category and showcase your physique in the best way.

6. Rest and recovery are just as important as your training.

Sleep affects your hormones, which affects weight loss and muscle growth. Also, seeing a sports massage therapist can help your body recover more quickly and prevent injuries.

7. You will gain weight after the show.

One, it will increase after rehydrating and refueling your body after the show. Two, it is not ideal for your body to be at a low level of body fat for an extended period of time. However, the amount of weight you gain depends on your reverse diet and post show nutrition (this is dependent on your coach!).

8. People will ask you a lot of questions and not understand why you need be so skinny.

First, be calm. Second, explain to the person that in order for muscles to be seen, the body fat needs to be reduced as much as possible.

9. Closer to the show, you will be very vascular.

I suggest that you invest in long sleeves since you will be colder than usual and people might think you are angry when you are not.

10. Be comfortable with your body before you even consider this sport.

Doing a show will NOT improve your body image! You must be prepared for the highs and lows of the sport. There are days that you love your physique and other days you think you are too small. Also, you will have to be naked to get the stage tan and be near other naked people while it dries.

Final thoughts

If you still want to compete after reading this list, you definitely consider it! After you find a qualified coach, check out my list of competition must-haves.

Those of you who have competed before, what would you add to this list?