Understanding Bodybuilding: A Journey with Kev Train Hard

In today's blog post, we dive into the journey of a dedicated bodybuilder, Kev Train Hard, who recently competed in his first bodybuilding and classic physique competition. With over 600,000 followers on Instagram, Kev’s story is one of hard work, perseverance, and realizing the challenges of bodybuilding. Coach Greg Doucette, known for his candid advice and expertise, provides insights into Kev's off-season and competition prep, shedding light on common misconceptions about body fat and the bodybuilding lifestyle.

Off-Season Reality

Kev openly admits that he has been bulking for a whole year, leading to an increase in body fat. Coach Greg estimates that Kev is approaching 25% body fat, classifying him as obese by bodybuilding standards. This leads to a critical point: many bodybuilders underestimate the amount of fat they carry, often thinking they are in better shape than they truly are. Coach Greg emphasizes that if a bodybuilder is at 20% body fat or higher, they are, in fact, considered fat.

Competition Prep

As Kev prepares for his first competition, he faces the harsh realities of dieting down. Initially aiming for a weight of 190 lbs, he ends up cutting to 176 lbs, realizing he had more fat to lose than anticipated. Coach Greg points out that many first-time competitors tend to overestimate their muscle mass and underestimate their body fat. The journey to competition day involves intense cardio, strict dieting, and the discipline to push through long work hours, all while maintaining a rigorous training schedule.

Training and Nutrition

Throughout his preparation, Kev’s dedication shines through. He manages a demanding job in the oil fields while adhering to a strict diet of tilapia and greens, alongside early morning cardio sessions. Coach Greg highlights that while Kev is pushing himself to the limits, he also points out that excessive off-season fat gain makes the cutting phase more challenging. The key takeaway here is that maintaining a leaner physique in the off-season can lead to an easier and more effective competition prep.

Competition Results and Future Goals

After weeks of hard work and dedication, Kev competes successfully in two divisions, winning both the classic and middleweight categories. Although he does not take the overall title, his achievements in his first competition exceed expectations. Coach Greg believes that with further improvements in conditioning and muscle gain, Kev has the potential to excel in future competitions.

Advice for Aspiring Bodybuilders

• Do not underestimate the amount of body fat you are carrying.
• Maintain a leaner physique in the off-season to ease the cutting process.
• Focus on building a solid training foundation and learn to diet effectively before competing.
• Consider professional guidance to optimize your bodybuilding journey.
• Use supplements wisely to enhance your performance and recovery.

Conclusion

Kev Train Hard's journey is a testament to the dedication required in the world of bodybuilding. With the right mindset and approach, aspiring bodybuilders can achieve their goals while minimizing the challenges associated with excessive fat gain. Coach Greg’s insights serve as valuable lessons for anyone looking to venture into bodybuilding, emphasizing the importance of preparation, discipline, and realistic expectations.

As you embark on your own fitness journey, remember that building a better version of yourself takes time, patience, and a willingness to learn and adapt.