First Time Competing as a Figure Athlete in Natural Bodybuilding!

Well well well. So many emotions, hard work, patience and money went into this! Definitely one of the toughest sports I’ve ever competed in but so worth it: discovering many new layers about myself and developed massively. 1) the fact that I never thought after a devastating spine surgery (which made me relearn life basic needs) and other ongoing health complications, I could be back to my competitive days and even have one of the best physiques I ever had so far! 2) that I too, as a sport and exercise psychologist fell into the trap of feeling devastated AT FIRST about not placing in the top positions. This might be because I ensured that I leave no stone unturned and that I know I’ve done everything I possibly could. However, falling into this trap made me forget how far I’ve come and that this is only the beginning!! 3) that as much as you try to control all variables, you can never control the uncontrollables! Yes there were many unexpected things which effected me negatively: e.g. repeated rounds due to smoke machine making judges unable to judge, that braids do not work on my hair, extreme long delays in running orders of categories etc. Having said that, I made many new amazing friends, found solid coaching in @charlesdegiorgio and @steff_noble_figurepro , might have made my family roll their eyes multiple times , built new bridges and learnt so much about myself and this sport through this experience. Especially that taking the natural route, bodybuilding can be a great sport. In my opinion it can also be considered making it to the Olympics like it used to be in them old days!