Are You Ready to Commit to a Prep?
Bodybuilding prep season is here, and if you're considering stepping on stage, it's essential to make sure you're in the right place—mentally, physically, and financially—before committing to a prep. Skipping these considerations could lead to burnout, poor results, or even harm to your health. Here are key signs you’re not ready to compete just yet—and what you can do to set yourself up for success.
1. You Struggle with Bloating or Digestive Issues
Whether it’s bloating from veggies or cheap meals, gut health is crucial during prep. Poor digestion can lead to water retention, making it harder to get stage-ready.
What to do: Address gut health first. Consider working with a professional to optimize digestion before starting prep.
2. Your Labs Are Garbage
Whether natural or enhanced, bad lab work can make prep unpredictable and even dangerous. Prep takes a toll on hormones, so starting with poor health only worsens the problem.
Pro tip: Get labs done before prep and again a couple of months into reverse dieting. This sets you up for a smoother process.
3. You’re in Pain or Have Limited Mobility
Pain or limited range of motion can derail your prep and impact your training quality. It also makes posing—a crucial part of competing—more difficult. Addressing injuries and mobility limitations before prep ensures you can train effectively, move better, and hit your poses with confidence.
What to do: Work with a coach (like me!) to improve mobility, address limitations, and enhance your range of motion. This will set you up for a smoother, more successful prep.
4. You Don’t Have a Savings Account
Competing is expensive—entry fees, posing suits, coaching, travel, and unforeseen expenses add up quickly.
Bottom line: If you’re not financially stable, you’re not ready.
5. You Haven’t Practiced Discipline Yet
Prep is a massive commitment to a strict diet and routine. If you haven’t already mastered habits like meal prepping, tracking macros, or staying consistent in the gym, prep will feel overwhelming.
Advice: Practice these habits for a few months before officially starting prep.
6. You Haven’t Mapped Out the Next 20+ Weeks
Prep takes months of uninterrupted dedication. If you have vacations, weddings, or major life events coming up, these could throw off your progress.
Plan ahead: Ensure you have a clear timeline with minimal distractions before you start.
7. You’re Already on Low Calories and Doing Tons of Cardio
If you’re barely eating and doing hours of cardio but not losing fat, prep will only be more miserable. Starting in a deficit leaves no room to adjust as prep progresses.
Ideal starting point: High food intake and minimal cardio so you can gradually dial things in.
8. You’re Treating Prep Like a Training Program
Prep isn’t about building muscle—it’s about showcasing what you’ve already built by leaning out. Your training should already be in place before prep starts.
Takeaway: Focus on perfecting your diet and daily habits (e.g., tracking macros, steps, and water) before committing to a prep.
9. Your Relationship Is on Shaky Ground
Prep is a physically and emotionally draining process that requires unwavering focus. If your relationship with your significant other is already strained, prep can make it worse.
Why it matters: A trophy means nothing if you're left alone at the end. Fix your relationship now—it’s not worth sacrificing for a short-term goal.
10. You’re Doing This for the Wrong Reasons
Bodybuilding is hard work. If you’re only competing for attention or validation, you won’t last.
Truth: You have to love the grind—the training, the discipline, and the process. Otherwise, burnout is inevitable.
11. You Don’t Understand the Commitment
Competing isn’t a casual goal—it’s a sport that requires physical and mental fortitude. If you’re not ready to embrace the challenges and sacrifices, it’s okay to wait.
Reality check: Longevity in bodybuilding is rare. Take your time to decide if this is something you truly want to pursue for the long haul.
Bonus: Winning Won’t Magically Change Your Life
Winning a show is an incredible accomplishment, but it doesn’t solve personal issues or guarantee future success.
Enjoy the process: Focus on the journey, not just the outcome.
Final Thoughts
Bodybuilding is more than just stepping on stage—it’s about the character you build along the way. If you’re serious about competing, make sure you’re in the best possible place physically, mentally, and financially before committing.
When you’re ready to prep the right way—one that honors your health, longevity, and love for the sport—I’m here to guide you. My all-inclusive prep coaching will help you look your best, feel your best, and avoid long-term harm. Let’s make this a journey you’ll enjoy, from start to finish.
Ready to take the next step? Let’s build your foundation together.
