Fitness Competing 101

A lot of people have asked me what steps they need to take to start competing. Below are the steps that i personally would take:

1- make sure you are 150% dedicated to competing. this sport is expensive so if you aren't going to be dedicated damn near 200%, don't waste your time.

2- research. decide which organization you want to compete in. i compete in the NPC but there are a handful of other organizations such as WBFF, CBBF, NGA. Muscle Mania, IFPA, OCB, NANBF, REAL, FAME, INBF, UNBA, INBA, and NPA

here is a link with them all: http://www.bodybuilding.com/fun/rules-and-regulations.htm

3- once you know what organization you want to compete in, find a coach that is certified and experienced in that organization. while an NPC coach will help you in WBFF, it would be most beneficial to have a WBFF coach work with you if that's the organization you're going to compete in (ie a softball coach won't be able to give 100% to a wrestler)

4- once you have found a coach, work with them on determining your show date and which division you should be competing in

5- train and eat to your plan for the duration of your prep

6- prep throughout for your show: shoes, hair, tanning, suit, jewelry, organization registration, show registration, etc

7- be PREPARED for your friends and family to not understand why you are doing what you are doing and/or try to get you off track. a lot of friends will make you feel like s**t for not going out and partying with them or eating nasty food- be true to yourself and your goals

8- compete

9- compete again and learn for your first show. and then compete again.