The bikini division in bodybuilding has seen exponential growth over the past decade, attracting many who may not fully understand the demands of being a bikini competitor. The regimen for bikini prep is vastly different from typical fitness pursuits. While bodybuilding bikini preparation might sound fun, is it truly more enjoyable than a regular fitness routine? Let’s explore this topic from my perspective
Repetition
Lifestyle training offers a lot of freedom. If you’re training to stay healthy and because you enjoy it, you can choose any workout that appeals to you, from CrossFit to Karate, or even a Zumba class. You can switch up your routine weekly or even daily, as the primary goal is to stay active. There are no strict rules for how lifestyle training should look. Personally, I like to mix things up: one day, I might go bike riding and swimming; another day, I might do a high-intensity interval training class; then, I might run or lift heavy at the gym. This variety is typical for my schedule when I’m not preparing for a bikini competition.
However, bikini prep is highly specific and repetitive. Your training will focus on a particular exercise, primarily targeting the glutes and shoulders, and your routine will often remain the same for months. Unlike general bodybuilding, a bikini competitor doesn’t need to focus on compound movements. Patience is key, as repetition will become your new best friend.
Diet Discipline
Many believe that prepping for a bikini competition is all about gym workouts and cardio, but this sport is truly about diet. The diet accounts for 70-80% of your success, with the gym routine making up the rest. Bikini competitors follow extremely specific diet plans, unlike those who follow a lifestyle diet, which allows more flexibility.
In bikini prep, you must stick to your meal plan 100%, with no room for fast food, cookies, sugar, alcohol, cakes, or ice cream. Six meals a day, eaten every three hours, becomes the norm. Unlike a lifestyle diet, where occasional indulgences like a cookie or a pizza are acceptable, the bikini diet demands constant adherence. If you can handle this rigorous diet, you’re ready to start preparing for a bikini competition.
Mental Fortitude
Bikini competition is a challenging sport because it is subjective. Athletes often compare themselves to others, leading to self-criticism and doubts about their muscle mass or leanness. Striving for the perfect body seen in professional photos can significantly impact your mindset. This sport requires a strong mind and great support, as the journey can be tough.
In my experience, maintaining a healthy lifestyle felt liberating. I work out because I love it and aim to be happy and healthy, without the immense pressure that comes with competition prep. The emotional rollercoaster and self-doubt in bikini prep can be difficult to manage without patience and support.
Time Management
An NPC/IFBB competitor has a lot on her plate:
- Daily training, including weightlifting and cardio
- Eating every three hours, adhering strictly to the meal plan
- Drinking a gallon of water daily
- Stretching daily to perfect posing
- Practicing posing routines daily
- Sleeping a minimum of eight hours for recovery
- Practicing core work, such as vacuums
If you have a family, a full-time job, and other responsibilities, impeccable time management is crucial to fit everything in.
In contrast, a lifestyle routine offers freedom:
- You can decide what, when, and where to train, changing your routine as you wish.
- A flexible diet allows you to balance all foods and eat in moderation.
- Drinking 2.5 litres of water daily is recommended, but flexibility is allowed.
- Stretching is advised, but there’s no judgment if you can’t touch your toes.
- There’s no need to practice posing or vacuums, and you can sleep as much as your body needs.
If you’re considering competing, this article highlights the significant differences you’ll face, helping you set realistic expectations and prepare for the challenges ahead. The comp prep journey unveils a world of discipline, sacrifice, and dedication far removed from the freedom and flexibility of a lifestyle fitness routine.
Photos By: Monte
