I'm in the contemplation stage of training for a figure or swimsuit competition and need some advice

[Jaccinda]

I'm a 47 year-old mother of three grown children and I've had several people ask me if I'm a body builder. I am a Coolsculpting Technician where I work and one of my trainers from Denver said that I totally need to enter a competition. I've thought about it in the past, but just briefly. Now, I am seriously contemplating it. But, I know if I begin this, it is going to take a lot of dedication and will power for me.

My strengths are that I tend to build muscle quickly and easily, and that I have good work ethic. Also, I am a very goal-oriented individual.

My weaknesses are that I have not so good eating habits, and I am whey and dairy intolerant (it's difficult to find a good protein supplement), and my age and height may be a deterrent factor for something like this. In addition, I have had several sport injuries and some reconstructive surgery done on my knee.

The good thing about the past injuries is that I'm still able to do Insanity-type work outs in the morning and P90-type strength training workouts in the afternoon with one day of rest during the week. And I feel good.

I would love to commit to something like this, but not if I can't do well.
Does anyone have any advice for me? Please, please, please??

[The Prodigy]

I say go for it! You only live once! Hire a good diet guru who will work with you thru your whey and dairy problems!

[tammyp]

you are better off with whole foods anyway. diet is key when preparing for a show, so getting rid of processed food and eating veggies and lean protein sources 5 - 6 meals a day weighed and measured is the key to getting on your way~

[Jaccinda]

Thank you for your response! I agree, whole foods are better. I have ran several marathons and rode in the Iron Horse Bicycle Classic several times.......I prefer whole foods over gels and energy drinks/bars any day.

Typically, how long does it take to properly prepare oneself for a figure competition? What is your opinion regarding using an online trainer for something like this? How important is weighing the food you consume? And lastly, about how many hours per day would I need to set aside for cardio and strength routines?
By the way, you look AMAZING!

[sassy69]

Congrats on your goals!

Especially w/ a marathon background - that is sort of the polar opposite of a bodybuilder in terms of body composition because the long distance / endurance nature of running is very catabolic while obviously the physique sports are more about development of muscle. It would be helpful if you can post some pix to get an idea of your current body composition to be bael to speak about "how long" to prep. Many people new to physique competition are lacking in suffiicent muscle mass, which can take more time than dropping fat in terms of prep. But you are probably not far from one of the available categories for ladies to get onstage.

[tammyp]

Thank you for your response! I agree, whole foods are better. I have ran several marathons and rode in the Iron Horse Bicycle Classic several times.......I prefer whole foods over gels and energy drinks/bars any day.

Typically, how long does it take to properly prepare oneself for a figure competition? What is your opinion regarding using an online trainer for something like this? How important is weighing the food you consume? And lastly, about how many hours per day would I need to set aside for cardio and strength routines?
By the way, you look AMAZING!

most people use online trainers these days, with great results! most people prep 10-16 weeks depending on your BF levels....weighing your food is a MUST. you must be precise w your food to the exact macro....and time spent is diff for everyone....