Understanding the Magnitude of Contest Prep

Hi all,

A totally non evidence-based post from me today, but something which I wanted to touch on and has been briefly mentioned every time we have had discussions about competing -especially as a first timer.

Understanding the demands of contest prep both physically and mentally.

“Signed the contract with myself”

Is a great analogy that not only accepts the terms of what will physically have to be ticked off daily, but also an agreement with yourself to do absolutely nothing but your best.

Often in evidence-based approaches, the minutia clouds the other key factors which are in my opinion, your work ethic, your drive, your “killer instinct” going into a show. This doesn’t mean we are turning the gym into a “warzone” or “in the trenches” but what I have noticed increasingly, is many athletes dropping out from shows due to the mental toll it takes.

Getting a firm grip of your vision and drive as you approach your goal is not only what will even get you to the stage in the first place, but in a world where everybody is anal about every aspect of their bodybuilding, it is literally the sole thing which will drive you forward more than the rest when the playing field is level. Everyone is suffering into a prep, everyone is drained and having doubts of their abilities.

Go to a show, follow peoples preps, sign the contract with yourself before you start and understand fully that it is more than just ticking the boxes and showing up, it is the desire to win, or place top 3, or even beat your best previous showing.

We can never control who turns up, but we can always control our attitude and mental input!

Hope this spurs some of you guys on in the dog end of your preps!

Dazz

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