08/29/2025
Still on a high from being oiled up and on stage last week but here are the takeaways I’m holding onto before starting my next prep:
* Start prep early. Slacking the first few weeks put me behind and made the last 10 weeks brutal. Calories dropped to ~1100/day (mostly chicken, tuna, and a few veggies), and cardio hit 90 min to 2 hours daily. Starting earlier and using the full prep window will keep me from playing catch-up.
* Make mental agreements. A body building show and simply working out on a diet are two different things. There are many sacrifices to be made and having this conversation with myself is important. Understanding the compromises I have to make, having these conversations with the people I love, and upholding my values and relationships will keep me focused and grounded.
* Trust my coaches. There were times where I was nervous and was probably holding onto more water weight because I simply did not know what to expect. Being in such a calorie deficit made me worried I’d lose all my muscle, having a large Five Guys fries and 2 shots of vodka the night before the show made me worried I’d be drunk and flabby on stage. I overthink. I stress. I doubt. But I’ve learned I just need to show up and do the work. My coaches will handle the bigger picture.
* Remember prep is temporary. No one likes being depleted of energy, eating less, or training without a pump. But food will always be there. Locking in early and making small sacrifices upfront will save me from greater fatigue later and will allow me to not sacrifice as much.
* Lean on support. Sharing my struggles made the journey lighter. When my heart was full, my energy followed, workouts were more fun, meals were more filling, and I felt unstoppable. Special shoutout to the person who grounded me most, saw me struggle, and put up with my bu****it .morales25.
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One week post, feeling amazing and motivated as ever 💪🏽
