The Ugly Side of Competing: A Bodybuilder's Honest Experience

In a recent video, fitness coach Greg Doucette discusses the harsh realities of bodybuilding competitions through the lens of Nicole Dewy's experience. Nicole candidly shares her journey from preparation to competition day, shedding light on the struggles faced by many competitors. Despite achieving a commendable placement, she reveals that the process was far from enjoyable, stating, "I hated it and I'm never going to do it again." This article explores her journey, the competition diet, and the psychological toll of prepping for a bodybuilding show.

Nicole's Journey: The Decision to Compete

Nicole had been training for five years before deciding to step on stage for a bikini competition. In October 2022, she hired coach Nick Karina to guide her through the process. As an online health and fitness coach herself, Nicole’s decision to hire a coach for her first competition raised eyebrows. "If you're coaching competitors, you better have done it a lot," Greg remarks, emphasizing the importance of experience in coaching.

The Preparation Phase

From October to March, Nicole focused on bulking, reaching a peak weight of 190 lbs with a diet of 190g protein, 320g carbs, and 60g fats. She gained approximately 15 lbs during this phase. However, Greg questions the necessity of such a significant bulk. He suggests that a more moderate approach, known as 'main gaining', could have led to a healthier outcome without the extreme measures that followed.

The Diet and Cardio Regimen

As competition day approached, Nicole began to decrease her calories and incorporate cardio. Initially, she expressed relief at not having to do cardio, but soon found herself dreading the added workout time. Greg emphasizes that year-round cardio can aid in maintaining a lean physique and improving fat metabolism. Nicole's struggles with the increased cardio, including how even an extra 10 minutes felt daunting, highlight the mental challenges competitors face.

The Competition Day: A Five-Minute Reward for Months of Hardship

Nicole ultimately competed in late October, having spent over seven months dieting. "If you need 200 days to get in shape, you're not ready," Greg asserts. He stresses that bodybuilding should be about enjoying the process rather than enduring extreme measures for a fleeting moment on stage.

Post-Competition: The Struggles Continue

After the competition, the transition back to normal eating can be fraught with challenges. Nicole describes feeling like she had the flu, struggling with low energy, and the psychological effects that come with extreme dieting. Greg warns that many competitors develop eating disorders due to the intense focus on appearance and weight.

Health Considerations and Alternatives

Throughout the video, Greg discusses the use of GLP-1 medications like semaglutide and tirzepatide, which can help with appetite control and cravings. He argues that for those who choose to compete, these medications can mitigate some of the suffering associated with extreme diets.

Conclusion: Find Your Passion

The story of Nicole Dewy serves as a cautionary tale for aspiring competitors and coaches alike. It emphasizes the importance of enjoying the journey of fitness and finding what truly resonates with you rather than succumbing to the pressures of competing. Greg’s insights urge individuals to embrace activities they love and to approach fitness with a healthy mindset.

Key Takeaways

Competing can be mentally and physically taxing, often leading to feelings of regret.
Hiring a knowledgeable coach is crucial for guidance, especially for first-time competitors.
Extreme dieting and cardio can lead to a negative relationship with food and exercise.
GLP-1 medications may help manage appetite and ease the dieting process for competitors.
The emphasis should be on enjoying fitness, not just competing for a trophy.

TLDR Summary

Nicole Dewy's experience in bodybuilding competitions highlights the harsh realities and mental struggles associated with extreme dieting and preparation. Coach Greg Doucette emphasizes the importance of enjoying the fitness journey and finding activities that resonate personally, rather than succumbing to the pressures of competition.