You Can Transform and Even Compete

by: Kristenann - October 1st, 2008

I get alot of emails and questions from women, asking about how to get lean and toned and many ask about competing. I want all of you to know that ANYONE can transform and even take it to the next level and compete. Honestly, all it takes is commitment, determination and discipline. If you want it bad enough... you can have it! YOU control how your body looks... nobody else does.

If you want to take it to the next level, you can! Competing is not an exclusive sport. At the local level, anyone can compete. There are no prerequisites, aside from getting an annual membership card for the organization that you choose to compete in. Of course, you do want to make sure that you are in tip-top shape before you get on that stage, so enlist the help of a knowledgable coach (one with experience in that type of competition prep!). Every body is different and responds differently to variations on diet, cardio and training and you need an experienced coach that can cater your program to your body's needs.

The diet is really 80% of it and that is the hardest part. You may eat the same meals every day for a few weeks and you need to eat every 2-3 hours. The more often you eat small, healthy meals, the less fat your body stores! Once you get used to that and accept the idea that you are simply eating to supplement your body and provide neccesary nutrients it needs to function, build lean muscle and burn fat; it gets easier. You have to get out of the habit of eating because something tastes good, or because you are depressed, etc. Think about what you put into your mouth, every time you eat.

As well, make sure that you drink plenty of water! I drink 1.5-2 gallons per day. The more you drink, the less your body holds onto, meaning less bloat!

Cardio... yes, I do lots of cardio. However, that does not neccesarily mean that you need to do as much as I do, or someone else. Some people can do 30 minutes, once a day and get lean. Many need to do two sessions of 30-40 minutes per day. My biggest struggle is getting lean (as opposed to building muscle), due to a thyroid disorder, so I do anywhere from 2-3 hours per day, during competition prep, or prep for an event. Again, an experienced coach can help you determine what is right for you.

Just remember, being fit and healthy is NOT an exclusive club and neither is competing. YOU have the power to decide if you want it bad enough and to be whoever it is you want to be!

Happy training!

The information contained in this article is not intended to be used for, or replace, the advice, medical diagnosis, or treatment of your doctor. Always seek the advice of your doctor or other licensed healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, diet, or exercise routine or when you have questions regarding any medical condition. Use of this article indicates that you expressly acknowledge and agree that Optimum Nutrition, Inc., its suppliers, licensees, and sub-licensees are not responsible for the results of your decision resulting from the use of this information including, but not limited to, your choosing to seek or not seek professional medical care based on the information contained in this article.