What you need to know if you are going to start your first prep!

In a few days it is the Big O day (Mr Olympia – the most awaited international event for bodybuilding and fitness athletes and enthusiasts).  More than usual we are surrounded with images of perfect men and women on social media and magazines. Although this can motivate us to work harder, we need to keep in mind certain aspects why a model or an athlete in a picture looks so perfect. 

Many who are familiar with aesthetics techniques know the tricks of the trade and how to get such perfect pictures done. The problem relies when people who obsess themselves with these images have no clue what involves in getting a certain body image.

Here are a few tips you should consider when you see a perfect fitness picture:

a. Photo editors can do wonders.

b. Shredded muscles do not last all year round.

c. The model has been on a specific strict diet for 10-12 weeks.

d. Depletion is a common tool used before photoshoots.

e. Posing and light can change a body completely.

Do not be scared of the above-mentioned tips, I am listing them to help you get a realistic view of what the process involves. It is an amazing journey if you wish to go through a prepping process. Throughout the process you will learn a lot about your body, increase your inner strength and will power. However, if you are doing this for the first time be sure you are guided by a good coach. Be prepared that your body will change drastically, but perfection should not be your goal. Nobody is perfect but our imperfections make us more unique.

After  a few weeks on diet, you start seeing that "body fluff" getting away and your hard work underneath showing off. I can guarantee you, for an athlete it is the best reward ever, no trophy or title can replace the happiness this body change brings up.

Be careful though to be able to accept yourself after you resume your regular lifestyle. If you regain a couple of pounds and perhaps your abs do not stay so prominent it is normal. Even pro athletes go through this phase.

Minor to moderate weight gains should not be seen as disastrous when you resume your regular healthy lifestyle. Do not allow this to cause undue stress, be prepared that some weight gain is to be expected and even healthy during the off-season. 

After you reach your goal and feel your body so lean, it is common to be tempted to over-indulge in certain food which you might have dreamt about for several weeks. It is normal to have cravings and you should allow yourself some extra treats. Just be careful not to over do it. At first your body will consume those extra calories as if you ate nothing but if you keep indulging extra calories for a long period of time you end up gaining a lot of extra fat you've been working so hard to remove.

However you approach your off season and for however long you make it, embrace it by recognizing the important restorative effects that it has on your body. If you allow yourself to enjoy the rest, and do it with intention, you will be able to return to your form sooner and stronger.

A last personal advice I like to share, is to those who are around or support athletes going through a prepping season. Avoid any negative comments. 

Comments such as "Your face looked better when you had a few more pounds on." or "Looking so thin makes you look fragile." Keep in mind that it is not an easy process and if a person estimates your opinion this would give him/her a huge setback. Remember, a person who is going through a strict diet is more vulnerable emotionally as well. Next time you are about to pour out such comment change it to a positive vibe. Complimenting athletes for their inner strength and dedication while encouraging them to stay strong and follow their goals can help a great deal.

Much Love,

Lor