fighting40’s BodyBlog

Just returned from the 2007 INBFWashington State Natural show in Arlington, WA (just north of Seattle) produced by Kevin and Denise James.  This show was a total blast.  I couldn’t believe how nice everyone was….the competitors (not a single arrogant ass in the bunch), staff (very helpful and fun), and the audience (totally into the show).  The venue was a new perfoming arts auditorium that was absolutely fantastic.  If you are a natural competitor, and want a fun and competitive show….come to the 2008 show.  The James’ are fantastic folks and will help with any arrangements necessary for you to enjoy the show.  I just can’t say enough great things about this event.  This show is now the standard for what I will expect in any show.

Another quick word about the competition.  This show was full of great people with some terrific bodies.  I wouldn’t have wanted to be a judge at this contest because there were a lot of really sharp bods, but in my opinion, the judges got the scoring right.  It’s a lot more fun when there aren’t a lot of easy winners and I don’t think there were any "easy" wins this year.

 Now, how did I do…I felt great going into this show.  I had more size than before and still maintained a good degree of conditioning.  I was hoping my night routine would improve over my last attempt and made myself proud.  The routine went off without a hitch and I think it showed what I had pretty well.  I think I will start working on a new routine now so I’m ready for next year (it’s the part I’m the worst at).  I’m pleased to say that I finished 2nd in the open heavy weight and won the 40+ masters.  I am excited to get back into the gym and start improving my weak spots…maybe I can make an improvement in the open category next year (some more size would really help).  Good luck to everyone I got to meet at the show this year, and I can’t wait to see you all again next August. 

Well, last few days….feeling good.  I am pleased with the way I am looking and feel like I’m a bit bigger than my show in March, but I’m only a few pounds heavier.  One place I think I have improved is in my posing.  I am convinced, that the more you do it, and see it being done, the better you get.  The posing just feels a lot more natural this time.  I still don’t like the evening show part…I am not very artistic and don’t feel like my presentation is as exciting as I would like.  However, I feel that my routine for this show is far superior to the one in March….music is a ton better and it’s pace and beat allow for better transitions between poses.  I need to develop (or steal) a few more poses that look good with my body that aren’t run of the mill stuff.  Unfortuately, my balance sucks and I won’t be doing any kneeling ar squating type poses….the last thing I need to do is fall over on stage.  I am starting to get the butterflies; funny part is, that’s what I like.  I like the anticipation the most, thinking and dreaming of glory.  Anyway, I’m off to my last tanning bed appointment before the show (wish I was this dark all year long….I am a redhead, so compared to most, I’m still not that dark).  Later

Officially 9days out (not including today) from the INBF Washington State Naturals.  I’ve entered both the masters and open heavyweight classes of the contest.  I’d like to say that I do not care how I place, as long as I come in my best shape, but that’d be a lie.  I have worked a lot harder preparing for this show than I did my other (only other) and have learned a lot since then.  But, there are always guys out there that are bigger, stronger, fitter etc. and you have no control over who shows up.  I would rather lose in a big contest than win as an only competitor….so maybe I should quit worrying.  I guess this competition or the fear of competition helps keep me motivated…gives me a purpose for pushing an extra rep or skipping that cheat food.  I won’t write "I want to win" on my profile, but I sure am going to push myself hard in hopes that my doubts turn out to be just that…..MY DOUBTS.  Just in case, if you’re planning on competing in the above referenced show, I heard candybars help build muscle.