Before each contest there are so many changes to contend with. The changes mostly revolve around a few key items:
1.) Our self-perception. In other words, how we see ourselves and how we think others see us. We think that we are either never good enough to win or we see ourselves as soo good that we believe that we will always win. Somewhere between these two extremes is where we really live and where our reality resides. We spend tons of time trying to see ourselves as we ARE but others tend to provide us with feedback that makes us adjust our self-perception and eventually our self confidence.
2.) Energy. Wow! This is an area that we can control. We try to eat good as we focus on the contest. We select the right foods based on the best counsel we can prior to the show. We take all the right supplements to give us the right energy levels and strength. This is a constant for all of us who are bodybuilding competitors. Sleep is very important and when we don’t get enough sleep it affects our psyche and our ability to train at a very high level. Managing our energy is vital to a superior athlete’s success.
3.). Diet. I would surely recommend that we get ourselves a coach. This coach will help you to eat the best foods appropriate for the goals you have set. It is essential to eat food that is tatamount to “jet fuel.” Like my coach, Justin Dees says, If you are seeking high performance then eating a diet that is designed for these sorts of goals and objectives is the only way to achieve the goal. Trying to get all the right food into you on time and in the appropriate amounts is tough and requires absolute attention to detail.
4.). Posing. No matter how you want to approach your contest you have to spend a significant amount of time practicing posing. Getting the basic poses right. Recruiting others and especially your coach to watch you and make you do it right. Oh, let’s not forget posing to music! This is a process in and of itself. It requires precision, practice, and tons of attention to even the smallest details. This actually is the most fun but it demands a superior effort from the competitor.
Precontest Attitude
The items mentioned above are only a handful of items that can affect our attitudes as we approach a show. Believe me, there are hundreds and maybe thousands of others that can sink us or make us better. It all depends “attitude.” If we think we can win then we will not allow ANYTHING to change our vector. We are on a quest that obstacles cannot stop. I do not want to discuss reasons for failure. Let me tell you what keeps my attitude positive as I approach “game day.”
First, I have decided that this is what I want. So, the argument about whether what I am doing is worth it has already been settled. I hAve taken tone of time to get this one right. I know that I am on the right track and my goal is clear.
Secondly, the specific goal that is on the scope has been selected carefully and the only thing to accomplish now is getting the job done. The contest is waiting for me and I dare NOT show up. I have to be true to my goal and myself. To do less is considered a failure.
Thirdly, I have selected the right process and I have assembled the best tools I can find to win. I train daily rotating body parts daily. I do cardio daily. I try to get good rest and for me getting good rest is nigh unto impossible due to chronic insomnia. I eat the best and most appropriately selected foods. Lastly, I use the best supplements my coach can recommend to optimize my physique.
Fourthly, I get started! I schedule everything and I do not put anything off. My wife knows that I can be a major procrastinator so she is charged with the responsibility of nudging me to engage when I stumble or when I get distracted by life.
Lastly, I cannot emphasize more that it is very important to decide, prepare, plan and GO WIN—-No matter what. This is the only attitude to have in place if you and I are going to be winners. Surround ourselves with others who are better and we will rise to their level. Winning is a choice not an accident.
Until Next Time
Douglas E. Graham, Lt Col, USAF, (ret). MHSM
Six Pack and Senior 