Ever thought about competing in bodybuilding? We look at the mindset and what it takes: the good, the bad and the ugly!
Competitive bodybuilding isn't easy. In fact, it could be one of the toughest things you ever do. But it's a great challenge. There are three things which are hard about making it to the bodybuilding stage: training, diet and mindset. How you cope with the mental challenges of bodybuilding prep are what will make or break your journey to stage. Here's what you need if you're going to succeed.
Courage
Call it courage or a bit of crazy, but you need a go-getter attitude to even commit to bodybuilding prep. It's scary! But if scary excites you, and challenges drive you forward, then competing is for you.
Know your "why"
You need to have a very specific, personal reason for competing, one which resonates with you and is nothing to do with anyone else. You'll be coming back to this a lot over the next 12, 16, 24 weeks…
Focus
Keep your eyes on the prize, even if you're not competing to win. Remember your "why", and keep your mind focused on it. Wavering from your personal goal can easily turn into a diet wobble or worse.
Positive thinking
Your body won't start to change right away. You might feel as if you've been dieting for weeks and don't look any different. Stay positive. Changes are happening. Just push forward. If you think positive thoughts, you'll be happier, you'll sleep better, you'll attack your workouts harder. The body will catch up.
Patience
Contest prep takes time. You're melting the bodyfat off bit by bit, % by % and gram by gram. Be patient, commit to your plan, and get your head down.
Determination
You need to be a bit bullish about your prep. Combat your own inner demons, external temptations, nay-sayers and doubters with unwavering determination and laser-beam focus.
Confidence and self-belief
Even the most experienced and successful bodybuilders experience mental wobbles. Believe in your abilities and in your body. Be confident. You will achieve your goals. It's all within your control.
Visualisation
The ability to envisage yourself on stage, smiling, posing and achieving your goals is invaluable. Tap into this vision every day. Imagine how you'll feel, what you'll hear, what you'll see. Connect the feelings to your muscles. Let yourself feel the emotions.
Trust
If you have a coach, trust him or her. If you have a mentor or advisor, listen to them (and not to everyone else). Trust your plan. What's the alternative? Chopping and changing, self-doubt and constant worry. Trust the process.
Forget the others
Don't get drawn into comparing yourself to other competitors. Try not to check their social media updates and progress pictures. Don't think about who else might be in your class. Focus on yourself, execute your plan, and do the best you can do. It's a subjective sport. All you can do is your best.
Enjoy the journey
Contest prep is hard, and long, and will be a slog at times. There's no guarantee you'll win, or place. The outcome is no reflection on you as a person. So it's imperative that you enjoy the journey as well as the goal. Enjoy training, be proud of yourself, relish the lessons prep teaches you. How do you want to feel on competition day? Make a conscious effort to feel and experiencing those emotions (pride, satisfaction, elation) during your prep, too. Don't wait for those fleeting minutes on stage to enjoy everything bodybuilding has to give you.
And remember the 7 Ps: prior preparation and planning prevent p*ss-poor performances!
Are you a competitive bodybuilder? What's the single most important aspect of mindset during your contest prep?
