No, I’m not talking about myself here. 😉 I get asked the question “When is the right time to compete” all the time by men and women who are interested in taking the stage.
There are a LOT of factors that figure into a competition prep (schedule, focus, relationships, family life, intensity level, discipline & mental fortitude levels, work life, etc), BUT there are some solid factors that can point you to the stage or tell you to wait…
– Your motivation is YOU (not anything or anyone else)
– Your bloodwork is good, hormones balanced
– You aren’t already on a super high cardio regimen, meaning you’re at a maintenance level and not a cut level – you don’t want to start a prep already in a cut mode
– Your caloric intake is regimented and ample (see above about not starting a prep already in a cut/deficit)
– You are able to CARVE OUT the time to focus and be disciplined in your daily prep needs (notice I didn’t say you have the time… make no mistake – no one has the time)
– You are willing to spend the growth time needed in a pre-prep timeline if your muscularity isn’t there yet
Being on stage is FUN, and I honestly NEVER dreaded any part of prep!! But that was because I always went in with the above checked off! 😉