What happens behind the scenes of the competition world? What do we go through before and after the show? There are things that happen to competitors that aren’t often spoke of. Maybe it’s taboo or maybe we don’t think the general public will truly understand what we are going through.

You can go to informational seminars and workshops. Quite often you’re told how to pick out the best suit for your physique, how to apply competition tan or various other show prep tips. That’s only scratching the surface. No one really tells you how much money, time and effort you need to invest. Lots of times, no one will mention what the affects of dieting does to your social life. How about what an extremely low body fat percentage will do to de-regulate a female’s hormonal cycle? These concerns can reek havoc on your psyche. And, if only someone had told you that it’s normal for you to be experiencing it, it may have helped.

Competing is a very exciting adventure. It’s also a journey of self discovery. You truly find out what you are capable of. How supportive are your friends when you tell them you can’t drink that night or go out because you have to train early the next morning? Do you hear,.”Ah…what’s one night. Have some fun for a change??” Or do your friends try to find something for you guys to do that takes into consideration your competition lifestyle. It’s times like this that people don’t tell you about.

If you’re feeling a certain way, make sure you express, to someone that you trust, what’s going on. It’s tough enough finding the time to train, do meal prep and balance every other aspect of your life. When getting ready for a show, a support system is critical.

So you’ve competed, the show is done and you’ve hung up your suit for the season. Now what? All that freedom you craved, for what seems like an eternity, isn’t so enticing. You’re gaining weight at a rapid pace and wondering about all of those other funky changes that are happening to your body. The structure that you got so accustomed to is possibly gone and there is no show in site until next season. Is this the postpartum of the Fitness world?

In some ways it is. That’s why it’s just as important to have a game plan for the off season as is it for when you are getting ready to step on stage. Slowly ease yourself back into the everyday world. Your body and your mind may not be able to handle the shock of a 180 degree turn to your lifestyle.

Know that there are many other competitors that are going through or have gone through what you are experiencing. It’s okay and it’s normal. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. It’ll help you in the moment that you’re having and also in the long term future.

Have a blessed week and you see Saturday at the WBFF Alberta Championships!
Karma Schopp
Certified Personal Trainer, Freelance Writer, WBFF Figure Athlete
karmafitness@rocketmail.com