Bodybuilding Competition Considerations - Advice from Fitness Model & NPC Bikini Competitor Candy Brenn

Are you thinking about competing in a bodybuilding, fitness, figure, or bikini competition?  Find out from NPC Bikini Competitor Candy Brenn exactly what it takes to prepare for your competition!

Besides healthy eating and fitness tips, some of the most frequently asked questions I receive are in regards to competing.  With competition season just beginning, I thought it would be a great idea to share with you some of my personal thoughts on things you should consider before committing to a bodybuilding competition.

First off, let me explain to you that there are various categories for men and women when it comes to competing.  There’s traditional bodybuilding in which female bodybuilders try to add lean muscle mass much like male bodybuilders, with very little body fat.  Then there is the fitness category where competitors perform an athletic routine set to music to showcase their strength, flexibility and any gymnastics training.  Next we have figure competitors who have the same type of physique as fitness competitors, but there is no fitness routine. Competitors wear a two-piece swimsuit and heels, and are judged from all angles.  While bearing a close resemblance to female bodybuilding, they emphasizes muscle tone over muscle size.

Lastly, we have the bikini division; this is the newest category and the one which I chose to compete in.  Bikini competitors are still very lean, but do not carry the same muscle definition that bodybuilders, fitness, and figure competitors aim for.  It is a softer look, and competitors are judged in a smaller two-piece swimsuit and high heels. I believe that there is an emphasis on having a well developed “bikini booty” with strong shoulders and a small waist.  Judges compare based on balance and poise, as well as overall physical appearance.

Photo from my first NPC Bikini Competition - The 2012 Diamond Classic

So now that we got the categories covered, that may help you decide which one is best for you and your body!

Now, I’m not going to sit here and try to convince you or deter you from competing, what I am going to do is be real with you.  Many people begin contest prep with absolutely NO IDEA how much hard work it really is.  A bodybuilding or bikini body does not simply just happen over night.  There is no pill or “quick fix” to achieving a ripped and rock hard body.  Truth is, it takes months of dedication to a strict diet and training regimen that is going to test you not only physically, but mentally and emotionally as well. 

That being said, let me explain to you more in depth what to expect when preparing for a competition.

Positive Mindset

As I said before, competition prep is no walk in the park.  Regardless of what category you choose to compete in, all require consistent clean eating and taxing training in order to yield a stage worthy physique.  This can and will take a toll on you physically, mentally, and emotionally.  Some days you will feel stronger than an ox and others you may feel weaker than a tiny twig.  You’ll get grumpy, angry, frustrated, sad, annoyed, tired, and heck you’ll feel like giving up once, twice, maybe more.  But then, there are days you are full of joy because you see just what you want, PROGRESS.  You get in what you put out and those results make you feel amazing!  You will feel crazy at times because you’re experiencing a roller coaster of emotions.  These feelings will not only affect you, but the people around you.

Support System

Through out your show prep, you will need to surround yourself with people who are going to support and encourage you.  A crucial aspect of competing is finding the right trainer to help you prepare.  It’s extremely difficult to do it all on your own.  Without proper guidance from a certified trainer who is experienced in competition preparation, you most likely fall short in achieving an award-winning physique.

Me with my trophy and my trainers, Elena Ramos & Dennis Sheppard!

Furthermore, you will have to associate only with those who are going to lift you up!  You may find that your co-workers, friends, even family members cannot comprehend your choices and could quite possible be negative influences because they are unable to relate to your competition lifestyle.

Time Management

FACT: The majority of your time will be spent focusing on your diet and training.  We all have the same 24 hours in a day and must use them wisely.  Most of us work and/or go to school full time, so there goes 40+ hours a week already.  But if you are serious about competing and have your sights set on a goal, you will have to figure out how to make it work.  You will have to plan your life around your training and eating schedule.  It is not impossible, and it can certainly be done, you just have to find out what works best for you.

During your prep you may find that you begin distancing yourself from family and friends.  This detachment may cause your loved ones to feel hurt or rejected because you’re unable to spend as much time with them.  You will have to give up late night partying, drinking, dinners, and possibly forgo certain social events due to your diet and training regimen.

Competition Costs

Have you considered the costs of competing?  Here is a list of just some of the things you will have to purchase:

-         Certified Personal Trainer / Nutritionist

-         Posing Coach

-         Clean FOOD

-         Supplements

-         Gym Gear

-         Competition Swimsuit

-         Competition Shoes

-         Competition Jewelry

-         Tanning Products

-         Hair & Makeup

-         Registration & Show Entry Fees

-         More FOOD (lol!)

Now, I don’t want all this to discourage you!  I want you to be aware of the various expenses and informing you that these things can add up quickly.  Be prepared and start saving your money now.  You can have a yard sale, bake sale, or even set up a fundraiser to raise money for your journey! 

Also, you can look into sponsorships to cut costs.  I am blessed to work for the number one sports nutrition and supplement company, VPX Sports / Redline Energy!  And, I am sponsored by ProTan Competition Tanning!  It may not be feasible to obtain sponsorships for your first competition because companies generally want to represent someone with more experience.  As for me, I have competed in two shows and placed first in my class in both.  Currently, I'm preparing for my third show!

Placing first in my class at The 2012 Diamond Classic

Success

So why do I do it?  I do it because I love the sport!  It takes dedication, determination, and consistency to showcase the best YOU that you can possibly be.  

Keep in mind that it isn't all about winning!  You have no control over the judges opinions or who shows up to compete against you (WARNING: This sport can be very political).  Regardless of your scoring or placing you should be extremely proud of yourself for committing to months of preparation, stepping on that stage, and giving it all you got.  Your body is your trophy!

I welcome the challenge on my body and mind although it can be grueling.  Realize that success requires sacrifice.  I like to push myself and I love seeing my body progress from week to week.  Are you ready to test yourself?  Make sure your physically and mentally prepared (I recommend consulting with a licensed doctor prior to any contest prep) and if you are, I say GO FOR IT!