jcorbett’s BodyBlog

Anyone who has ever prepared for a competition knows that the prep is often filled with challenges. For some of us it’s crazy work schedules, interruptions to diet, improper sleep, family, finances, etc. Add single parent with children ages 8 and 11 to the list and it’s impossible–at least for some folks. My weekdays and weekends are filled with a full-time job outside of my household, homework, chess tournaments, fundraisers, cooking, consoling, monitoring,  and motivating. My day begins at 5 a.m. and ends between 10 and 11 p.m. Last week I was only able to train once b/c I had to take my daughter to a few school visits, and she broke a bracket on her braces so we had to make an unplanned trip to the orthodontist. In addition, my son had a chess tournament on Sat. I don’t have any family so dropping them off with a relative isn’t an option. For the most part, our schedule is tight, but I am able to get in my training days. There isn’t much room for emergencies or new activities tossed in the mix, however, it is inevitable and has to be worked around even when it compromises my training time.

I haven’t thrown in the towel and have to step up cardio and cut more carbs so that I can bring up more definition on the thighs. I had to remind myself again why I am competing and its basically it’s because I want to. Additionally, if I am going to write about fitness I should have some success in the field.  In two weeks I will decide whether or not I will follow through with the next competition based on my progress.

As I attempt to replenish my wardrobe I want a new fresh look, I can’t decide what look I am trying to achieve. I don’t need stretch pants nor do I need to conceal a big belly or super wide hips anymore. I want sophisticated, mature & sexy, but I’m not sure what that looks like on my 5′9",  47 year old, 148 lbs frame. Last year after losing 25 pounds I shopped in the juniors department for jeans b/c the jeans were inexpensive. It was so exciting to put on a size that I hadn’t seen since my 20’s. It was a temporary fix. I have had some of my skirts taken in and have purchased a couple pairs of Anne Taylor slacks. However, I need a complete overhaul on my 9 to 5 and after 5 attire. I like a tailored look, but would like a little pizazz. If only I could wear yoga pants and a fitted tee for every occasion–life would be so simple.  How can I get on one of those fashion makeover shows?

I want to compete as a Master’s bodybuilder or a middle weight in the  next three weeks. I decided that I’m terrible in the 5" heels and don’t want to do the model pose required for figure. If I can pull it off (the posing practice & creating a 60 sec. routine), I should have a better shot at winning a trophy. I’m not sure when I became so competitive, but when I compete I want to win or at least place in the top five–perhaps I may be better at bodybuilding.

I talked to my former trainer and he asked me what was the problem. When I said I needed to lose the butt, his response was, "you’ve dieted before…" I whined, "but I don’t want to be hungry:)," and I was reluctant to commit to another figure comp. b/c I didn’t want to give up certain foods. In fact I was very nonsensical about dieting, fantasizing that fat burners & cardio were enough to drop 10 lbs., but I’ve got to cut calories if I want to hit the stage again.
I realize calorie reduction requires a strong and made up mind and I’ve been able to limit my to  1500-1600 in the past 5 days and haven’t fainted. Additionally, I had to go back to keeping a food log that helps me monitor my calorie intake. I’m looking leaner already–at least to myself:)

Training is fine. I started riding my bike because I have knee pain so I can’t run. I also do the stair climber–it’s great for keeping the glutes high & tight.

BTW another gym member said I looked perfect–while I know it’s not true, it was a nice up beat way to end my training.

Happy lifting to all!

Over the past few years I’ve received a number of emails, but the one that stands out the most in my mind is a guy who in his words said, "I wish I could get my wife to work out like you" so he asked for suggestions on how to motivate his wife. Somehow his question struck a raw nerve and I’m not sure why. My response was the following: make sure you cook dinner, take care of the children, buy her a new workout outfit, and take care of other chores so that she can have adequate time to get to the gym. I thought it was important for him to encourage her by making sure her needs were met, then maybe she  would  be inspired to make some physical changes.

I believe that internal motivation is the source that drives those of us who maintain healthy lifestyles. We may be encouraged and inspired by others, but ultimately it’s us who keep "us" in check. When I was dating a bodybuilder, he didn’t criticize me or harass me about going to the gym. I began to feel self-conscious about my physique and wanted to change. He was happy to show me resources and techniques that would help me actualize my transformation. However, it was "me" who had to make some tough choices about diet changes. When I decided I wanted to change, he supported my efforts.

What’s your opinion about mate motivation?