How I entered the world of bodybuilding

Not long after I started working out at the local gym after years of home workouts, one of the trainers behind the counter asked me if I competed. I responded with “Like bodybuilding?” I have been asked multiple times if I was a gymnast but this was new. In my mind I pictured an old school female bodybuilder with biceps the size of my legs. I politely responded no and went to start my workout.

A few weeks later, another trainer asked me the same question and I responded with the same answer I gave to the other trainer. However, conversation was different. After I responded, he gave me an explanation why he thought I did and suggested that I should look into it. Following this encounter, my conversations with the same trainer often included suggestions for me to check out bodybuilding.

At the time, I did not know much about bodybuilding other than the stereotypical images and jokes about not being able to eat carbs for months. I was also concerned about having a negative experience with food similar to the one described in this podcast. After thinking about it, I realized that my experience would probably be different and I had the knowledge to avoid a similar situation. The next day, I did some research on the categories: bikini, figure, women’s physique and women’s bodybuilding (wellness was not a category in the United States yet). Based on the the physique, posing, and overall vibe, I thought figure would be the best category for me.

After choosing my category, I contacted an old classmate from high school about his bodybuilding experience and he shared his bodybuilding journey along with some coaching references. Shortly after, we met up for a workout and further described the nuances of the sport. This conversation finalized my decision and I decided to contact his current coach. Although I did not have a show date in mind, I wanted to gain an understanding of the process and start looking for a coach.

In January 2019, I decided to compete in a local NPC show in the beginning of May. I contacted my classmate’s coach and we got to work. Since my prep went smoother than anticipated, we decided to enter a show that was a month earlier. I had no expectations going into the show and didn’t expect to win anything. I ended up winning first place in the figure novice category and the figure overall! A month later, I competed in the show I originally chose and got second place. This could not be a better start! I am currently working on my physique and wonder what else the world of bodybuilding has in store for me.

If this story inspired you to train for a competition, check out my list of things you should know before training and my competition prep must-haves!