Today I would like to write about one of the more common questions that I get asked. People are very curious (as a rule) about what an aspiring body builder has to do to prepare for a contest. I think that a lot of people think that you lose some weight and tan a bit... 

BUT... when people find out about the strict, STRICT diet, the long hours of cardio, the hours of practicing poses and routines and tanning while continuing to lift over a duration of up to 6 months... they usually say, "Why would you willingly put yourself through that kind of hell?"

Short Answer - Because I can.

Long Answer - People have to understand... once you have done something this difficult, it has a profound impact on the rest of your life. There will be simply nothing in your personal life or in your career that you will feel you can't accomplish. You will no longer be afraid to accept challenges.

It is a healthy lifestyle. Wait... before you freak out... I'm not talking about people who abuse drugs to enhance their physique. Anyone knows that that is NOT healthy.

In a 20 week contest prep, for the first 16 weeks your body will run like a well tuned machine. Your diet is perfect. You are challenging your body with weight training and cardio. You are paying attention to the amount of sleep that you are getting. It is very unusual to pick up a 'bug' or virus during this time, which speaks volumes.

Now, you'll notice that I mentioned the first 16 weeks. The last 4 weeks does become a drag on your system. Carbs are severely cut and calories are reduced, both of which sap your energy. In the final month, your cardio can be increased to inhumane levels in an attempt to shed as much body fat as possible**. Then, in the final week when you think that you cannot possibly take any more, you must deplete your system of water in order to show all of your definition. The last month is NO FUN. 

But, it is so worth it in the end... it's kind of like cosmetic dental work. You probably won't like the process, but you're going to LOVE the end results.

Point to ponder... why are bodybuilders considered insane for their amount of discipline and commitment, but a hockey player who continues to play on a broken ankle is a hero??

**As an aside, it is impossible to have zero body fat. You would be surprised at how many people honestly believe that they have (or know someone who has) zero body fat. Impossible for either gender. You would die. Case closed.