🩶 As a busy mum, I’ve found that competing ‘for fun’ over the past two decades has been my way of staying in shape, giving myself focus, and embracing discipline in a way that spills over into all aspects of my life.
But what people often don’t see is that achieving a super fit and lean physique takes more than just training hard and eating healthy.
Competition prep is an entirely different ballgame.
It’s a lifestyle that demands relentless commitment, and it’s not for the faint-hearted.
I’d like to share a glimpse into what it takes to stay in shape, to be strong and to remain lean… and I’ll also share some advice for those considering stepping into this world:
1. Adherence to the Program is Everything
When you’re in prep, there’s no room for shortcuts.
Every meal, every rep, every ounce of recovery is deliberate.
Your coach designs a program to take you to peak performance, and your job is to follow it – no exceptions.
It’s about showing up for yourself every single day, even when life gets chaotic.
Prep is where discipline shines brighter than motivation.
2. Discipline Over Motivation
Motivation can be fleeting, especially on days when mum-life throws you curveballs or your energy is low.
But discipline? That’s what gets you through.
The habits you build and the structure you commit to create a rhythm that keeps you moving forward. It’s about seeing the bigger picture and knowing that each small effort contributes to the goal.
3. Your Coach is Your Teammate
Despite having decades of experience, I too have a coach or mentor for each comp.
Over the years, I’ve learned how vital it is to communicate with someone who understands and wants the best for me. A coach is not just there to hand you a plan, they’re a partner who helps adjust and guide you through the ups and downs.
If you’re tired, overwhelmed, or plateauing, speak up.
The trust and teamwork you build with your coach are what make the process smoother and more effective.
4. The Mental Battle is Real
Prepping for a competition is as much a test of mental toughness as it is of physical endurance.
There will be days you doubt yourself or question why you’re doing this. Often 😊
The trick is to keep your “why” at the forefront. I’ve had moments where everything felt overwhelming, but the satisfaction of showing up for myself and hitting the stage as my best self always outweighed the struggle.
5. Recovery is Your Secret Weapon
In the midst of balancing workouts, meal prep, family life, and everything else, recovery often gets overlooked.
But it’s crucial.
Rest, sleep, stress management, and self-care all play an essential role in staying healthy and maximising results.
When you’re in prep, your body operates at its edge – recovery is what keeps you from burning out.
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If you’ve ever dreamed of taking your fitness to the next level, why not consider signing up for a comp? It’s challenging, yes – but also incredibly rewarding.
Whether you want to push your limits, gain a deeper understanding of discipline, or simply try something new, competition prep could be the journey that changes your life.
So, are you ready to go all in and see what you’re truly capable of? 💪
