Making the Leap into Bodybuilding Competitions

Deciding to take part in bodybuilding competitions is a big decision.  Competing can be very difficult.  This is not simply because the other competitors are very determined and that they train hard, but because of the commitment and sacrifice that it takes to commit to win a bodybuilding competition.  But if you are ready to take on that next bodybuilding challenge, then competitions just might be for you.

The first step you need to take after you decide to participate in bodybuilding competitions is finding an organization you want to be a part of.  Most organizations will have you purchase a membership, which is generally good for one year.  Once you are a member you can enter a competition that the organization is a part of during that year.

Remember that when you are just starting out, that the competitions you will be part of will not award cash.  If cash is what you are after, than you need to get into the professional organizations and go to the pro competitions to get you to the professional bodybuilding level.  In order to get there you have to place in the top three of a pro-qualifying competition.

An important deciding factor for which organizations you will join is drug testing.  You should decide early on if you want to be a bodybuilding organization one that tests their members for steroids and performance enhancing drugs or one that does not.  Think about if you are currently taking anything or if you plan to.  That will help you decide which way to go.

Once you have become a member of an organization, then you should decide what competition, or competitions, you want to be a part of.  You will should look for competitions that give you plenty of time to prepare.

When getting ready for a competition you will need to change your diet and workout routine some to get in the best shape in time for the contest.  You will need to eat six to eight meals a day and workout a lot more on both weights and cardio.  You will also need to have a lot of free time.  If you're in the middle of the school year, have a pretty serious girlfriend, or have prior commitments, then right now might not be a very god time to compete.

There is also a hefty financial tag to bodybuilding competitions.  Not only do you have to pay the membership of the organization, you will need to have posing trunks to wear on the day of the competition.  You will also have to invest in getting a great tan, which means lots of time in tanning beds.

If you are going to compete, it is important to stay motivated and to have support.  Read motivational articles, watch movies that get you pumped up and let your friends and family be involved.  Have people there to make sure you eat right and that you keep up on your training routine.  If you try to go through all the preparations and training necessary for bodybuilding competitions by yourself, you will burn out.

Remember that bodybuilding competitions are not for everybody.  Competing takes a lot of time and commitment and it is a lot of hard work.  If it is what you really want to do though, stick with it and it will be worth it.