Competing... Where To Start -- Tips from an IFBB Pro . . .

Courtesy of Donna Jones, Elite Sponsored Athlete & IFBB Pro

Making the decision to compete in a figure, fitness or bodybuilding competition is a big step and a fabulous goal to make - but it can also get a little scary at times.
In order to present yourself in the best way possible, you are going to need a bit of assistance. After years of competing, I have learnt a lot when it comes to prep and the BIG day. Some things I suggest are:

* Seek out advice from only those who have been there and done that and listen to them
* Choose a trainer who has a physique that you aspire to have
* Select a supplement range which is not only great tasting, but also one that delivers on its nutritional promise. In short, listen to the advice of the experts from Australian Sports Nutrition!

When it comes to competing, your whole life will be engulfed with the thoughts of "in 12 weeks I will be up on stage". "I hope I'm ready" etc, etc. I guess the biggest piece of advice I can give is to take it one day at a time.

Mental Strength

The biggest obstacle that you will have is mental strength. Before you embark on a competition diet make sure that you are ready and that everything else in your life is in order so that you can focus. Life will never be perfect but if you are worried about your job, your relationships or are generally stressed then you need to be sorted so that you can give 100%. Understanding that this will be hard but only for a short time will help you get through it. Remember, if it was easy everyone would do it.

Be Prepared

If this is your first competition do your homework. Find out what is required for the federation you chose, is your routine 1 minute or 2? Can you wear a G-string? Imagine paying a small fortune for a beautifully beaded costume only to get there and not be able to wear it! Find out about your compulsory poses- there is nothing worse than looking at a novice competitor that has no clue what is going on.

Find a trainer

Find a trainer that suits your needs and has both knowledge and experience and listen to them and only them. Everyone does things slightly different and when you start shopping for tips from different people mid diet, all you get in the end is confused.

Be realistic

At 12 weeks out of competition your training is pretty much what it is and you will not change your physique drastically at this point, ie: gain muscle or change your overall shape. If you have been training for 6 months then you will not look like a competitor who has 10 years under their belt. Having said that you will look the best you have ever looked and will get better each time. The things that will make the biggest change to you is what goes in your mouth. Diet and supplements at this time are the most important thing. Below is a list of supplements that I believe are the basic essentials when dieting:

* GLUTAMINE: For recovery and to strengthen your immune system.

* MULTI VITAMIN: To supplement what may be lacking in your diet

* THERMOGENIC/FAT BURNER: To help get rid of that pesky fat

* PROTEIN POWDER: This goes without saying. A good quality, great tasting protein is essential.
For these basics as well as anything else you need have a chat to the team at ASN. They have a great knowledge and can answer your questions as well as hook you up with the best supplements for your physique and budget.

Remember, competition is extremely rewarding. Set your goals and do your homework and reap the rewards. With the right advice and hard work you will achieve your goals and just keep getting better.

'Til next time
Donna J
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As an ASN Elite Sponosred Athlete, I get to choose from the BEST BRAND supplements in Australia, such as ASN's exclusive lines. I love to use: