jumper11 
"WE did it! Thank you SO MUCH to all who voted and dealt with me bugging you daily.....We made it into Round 1of the Spokesmodel Contest!! MUAH!!"
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Archive for October, 2009
Monday, October 19th, 2009
Hair, Makeup, and Accessories
One of the final decisions to make about competition prep involves the styling of hair, the application of makeup, and the selection of accessories. All three combine to finish off the total package of a phenomenal physique and months of hard work. Considering this, adequate time should be invested into the determination of these areas.
Hair
When considering competition hair, remember the key is to standout while on stage, while still looking your best. You want to look like yourself and feel beautiful. If you don’t feel comfortable and confident, it will certainly show on stage. When selecting hair styles consult with a stylist about color and cuts that accent your features. The short hair has been the trend for the past two years and many girls have attempted it, but not to their best interest. It may look good in public, but on stage it appears different. If you want layers or longer hair, experiment with hair pieces; everyone wears them now and the methods of putting them in can range from inexpensive do it yourself clip-ons for $50 to long term bonding and weaving methods ranging from $300-$1000+. Go to beauty supply stores and play with wigs and hair pieces or browse through hair magazines for interesting styles. Put your suit on and play with different styles to see what works best for you. Don’t get too overwhelmed, and remember, if all else fails, keep it simple and neat. Leave the edgy extravagance for another show. When you get pictures back from your initial show evaluate your hair and see if it works. If not, keep experimenting until you achieve the look you want. Remember, the worst thing you can do is wait until the day of the show to try and decide on a hair style. You have enough going on that day and your hair shouldn’t be another obstacle.
Makeup
As much I did not believe this when I first started competing, a professional makeup job makes all the difference in the world. Or at least knowing how to apply stage make up is the key. What looks like a lot of make up in the mirror is usually perfect for the stage. Remember the lights drown you out, so everything has to be overly dramatic to appear “normal” on stage. The joke with makeup is if you feel like a clown, your makeup is usually perfect. If you do not know how to properly apply stage makeup, then take classes, or solicit the help of a friend who is knowledgeable. You can go to makeup counters in the mall and ask them to teach you how to achieve the look you desire. Other competitors backstage at shows are usually pretty nice about helping others apply makeup as well. As far as color, it is really about personal preference and what brings out your natural features. Many girls like to match their eye shadow to their suit color, while others go for smoky eyes, or natural finishes. Experiment and solicit feedback from others. One very important tip to remember is to make sure your competition color and foundation blend well together once on your skin. This means you may have to use a slightly darker foundation than normal. DO NOT use competition color on your face. It gives the appearance of a dirty face on stage and can easily cost you the competition. The last thing you want is for it to appear as though your body and head are two completely different entities.
Accessories
The use of jewelry is a way to bring everything together. The rule of thumb I use is this: if your suit has a lot of “bling”, go with simple jewelry. If your suit is plain, spice it up with fancier jewelry. Although some ladies opt for real diamonds, most purchase bracelets, necklaces, and earrings in sets or alone for $8-$50 depending on what you want to spend. Many free standing stores in the malls or flea markets carry the “blingy” stage jewelry at very reasonable prices. You can also try teenage clothing stores which often carry the same thing at affordable prices. And if the jewelry breaks, loses stones, or is misplaced, you don’t have to panic about a lost fortune. Some girls opt for bracelets and earrings only, while others wear both plus necklaces and anklets. Have fun with it and let the jewelry represent your sense to style.
When combined, your hair, makeup, and accessories should all be selected to accent your features and give that final touch of elegance that you bring to the stage. You’ve worked out and dieted for several months, purchased the right posing suit, applied the perfect touch of competition color, and are glowing with radiance on stage. Enjoy your time on stage and moments in the spotlight…you’ve earned it. Now go out there, and quarter turn and pose your way to victory! Best of luck to you!
Posted in Training, Other, Reflections
Sunday, October 18th, 2009
Competition Color
Most competitors have a preference for the type of competition color used. When deciding on the most appropriate type, research the amount of application necessary, costs, and skin sensitivity. Remember, all methods are only temporary, they will rub off on clothes, and some can even stain clothing. Lets look at three of the most common methods used to achieve competition color.
Sprays
Spray tans require less work for the competitor, but are typically more costly. Many shows have professionals who attend and will apply the color for packaged pricing ranging from : $45 for one application to $150 for 2-4 coats or for both the morning and evening show. It usually involves a relatively large room where competitors are taken several at a time and sprayed or airbrushed to their desired color. Similar to all other applications, the color must dry and as it does it tends to appear darker. This type of application is not for those who are insecure about being seen in the buff by others. There is minimal privacy while being sprayed and there are usually several people in the room getting worked on simultaneously. If privacy is an issue, a similar look can also be achieved using spray tans found in salons. The only drawback is that at the salons, it is often done in a stand up booth with a machine that cannot touch up any missed or streaked body parts. There are also kits you can purchase that include do-it-yourself spray tans, but these are often costly to purchase the start up material.
Tanning
Although traditional tanning tends to give a more natural looking color, it is obviously not as healthy for your skin over prolonged periods of time and can quickly dry your skin often giving it a tanned, but leathery appearance. Many competitors choose to use tanning beds for a few days to get an even base color, prior to applying other products. There is also the option of self-tanners that are typically applied starting a week or so prior to competition. Since they take several days for the color to set in, by the 5th or 6th day a significant difference is noticed and if coupled with a spray tan, it may require only one application without skin becoming excessively dry. Netrogena, Jergens, Aveeno, and Banana Boat all have lines of self tanners as well as many others. When applying, follow all instructions, as these products can stain.
Appliqué
Three of the most common self-applied competition colors include Dream Tan, Pro Tan, and Jan Tana. Although commonly used among bodybuilders, Dream Tan products often leave competitors looking gold rather than a natural bronzed or tanned color. Some of this may be attributed to the competitors body chemistry, which can often effect the look of the finished color. Dream Tan is also prohibited at select shows as it tends to be difficult to wash off carpets in the athlete changing area of venues. It comes in several forms, with the most common being a mouse like substance that can be applied with a sponge, gloves, or brush. Because the product is so dark and thick, only one coat is often required for adequate color. Pro Tan was formerly available in a mouse and is now only available in a liquid spray. It is typically applied with a sponge brush and gloves. It requires multiple coats to be applied usually 2-3 days prior to competition. Jana Tana, which is applied similar to Pro Tan comes in a foam type spray that includes a competitor color and a competition tan (which is a darker bronzer). Additionally Jan Tana has an assortment of exfoliators, moisturizing lotions, and glazes. One drawback to all the products is that many competitors have skin sensitivities and allergic reactions. One technique I used was to mix the liquid Pro Tan with my own moisturizer as it was being applied. It made the application much easier, because it could be applied like lotion, went on smoother, dried faster, and prevented streaking. And similar to other forms of competition color, it darkens over time.
Use of Oils for Muscle Definition
Some type of shine is typically applied to darkened skin prior to going on stage. The purpose is to enhance muscle definition. Many novice competitors use aerosol cooking sprays such as Pam and Crisco. They are much cheaper than competition oils and can be easily applied with assistance and a towel to blot off the excess. As with other products, cooking sprays are also being prohibitied at some shows due to the dangers of slipping on floors once slicked over with the oils. They are also near impossible to remove from carpets. There are specific competition oils by Jan Tana and other companies that are less messy and tend to smell much better than cooking spray. They range from $15 to $35 and come in sprays or gels. Again, many shows will have professionals backstage to do all the “shining” and “bikini biting” for the ladies at no charge. If that option is available I would encourage you to use it.
Dark Complexted Skin Tones
Another common mistake among novice competitors is the belief that dark complexioned skin tones do not need to use competition color. Regardless of how flawless and or dark a skin tone may appear, under the hot bright lights on the stage everything is drowned out and appears lighter than it actually is, therefore all competitors must use some type of color.
Regardless of the method used, always remember to do your research and do a test application prior to competition if possible. Many of the colors can vary depending on your body chemistry and skin sensitivity and the last thing you want is to go on stage looking orange or green from a bad color job. Additionally, remember that when showering in between applications, caution must be used so as to not wash off all the applied color (ie-spot baths tend to work better than showering). Hey, remember, it is about looking beautiful…not smelling beautiful!
Posted in Training, Other, Reflections
Saturday, October 17th, 2009
1) Why do people get so bent out of shape when going through airport security when they already know the routine?
2) Why are there so few “real friends” who tell you when you look like a fool or do something silly?
3) Why is your mother the only person who can call you fat and get away with it?
4) Why is so cool to be of mixed ethnicities these days?
5) When is the recession going to end?
6) Why is it so difficult to tell the difference between figure and bikini physiques now?
7) Did that lady on the Biggest Loser ever jump up on the plyometric box this week?
8) Despite all the research against no carb diets, why do people continue to use them?
9) Why do so many girls wear hair extensions now?
10) Why is the media wasting so much time talking about the “balloon boy?”
11) Why does it always rain the day after you wash your car?
12) Why do so many trainers take pride in making their clients throw up?
13) Why am I dreading day light savings time in 2 weeks?
14) Why do people think it is ok to send inappropriate messages online? (If you wouldn’t say it to someone’s face, then don’t say it online!! Stop hiding behind the dang computer!)
15) Why don’t companies have an internet sensitivity training programs to teach people how to act online?
16) Why do people weigh themselves everyday?
17) Why have “sleep” and “rest” been my favorite words for the last 2 weeks?
18) Have we gotten this healthcare program resolved yet?
19) Why do the elderly people who can’t see above the steering wheel in their cars look so cute, but make us so mad?
20) What do you think?
Posted in Reflections, Just for Fun
Thursday, October 15th, 2009
The 2nd segment in my competition for beginners series focuses on proper suit selection.
Suit Selection
So you think you have seen the posing suit you want, which just happens to be similar in style to the suit won by the Arnold or Olympia winner. It is beautiful, gorgeous, and you have already envisioned yourself stepping on stage wearing it. But wait, what you may not know is that posing suits can quickly become one of the most expensive components of competition. Knowing these tips will help you with the initial process of selecting the best suit for your needs.
Create a Budget
Depending on your preference of suit, this can be one of the most expensive components of competition (specifically for figure competitors). You first need to determine how much you are willing to and can afford to spend on your suits. And remember that in many organizations you need both a one and two-piece. Prices range anywhere from $180-$2500+ per suit. With so many suit makers out there, there is one who will fit your budget. Once you’ve decided on a price, see which makers fall within your budget. Do an online search for “competition suits.” Some designers are getting more flexible with costs and are allowing you to make several small payments over time, while others ask for the bulk of the cost up front. And please don’t be fooled into thinking you have to have the most glammed up suit to win a competition. Many of the ladies with the “couture” suits are getting sponsors to cover costs, so they are able to get the suits with a lot of “bling”, without breaking the bank. Although it is important to have a nice suit, you should not go broke in the process of trying to attain it. Another suggestion is if you still find that your budget is tight, order a moderately embellished suit, buy the same Swarovski crystals that the designers use (at half the price) and embellish the suit yourself using craft glue. Look at magazines to get ideas of stone designs you like and experiment. Buy a cheap suit from the clearance rack and practice different stoning designs prior to working on your actual suit. Competitors are getting so savvy now that some of their self designed suits look better than the costly designers. Of course there is always the option to purchase used suits online from other competitors. The only drawback is that the suit often requires alterations. Regardless of the method you choose, stick within your price range because it is so easy to see other suits, get over zealous, and spend well outside your budget.
Select the Proper Color
When selecting the proper color, remember two things: it must accent your skin tone and look good on stage. It is also important that you take into consideration the color of your hair and your skin tone on competition day . Significant mistakes are made when ladies select suit colors based on their present skin and hair color and then morph into something completely different the day of the contest and wonder why the color does not look as nice. A good place to start is to think of colors you feel look good on you or that others have said highlight your skin tone well. Stay away from colors that will drown you out (ie: blondes may want to stay away from whites, darker complexions away from browns, and ladies with jet black hair away from black and navy blue). It has also been said to select color hues at the darker end of the spectrum because they show better on stage. (ie-selecting a magenta rather than soft pink; turquoise rather than baby blue). Ask for fabric swatches so you can actually see what the color looks like rather than just looking at it online. Don’t be afraid to get feedback from others as well. You’ve worked hard and want to put your best total package forward.
Select the Proper Style & Cut
Similar to color selection, your suit style must complement your physique. A good suit designer should ask to see pictures of your physique and should provide corrective feedback if you desire to purchase a suit that is not flattering for your body style. Consider whether you have a thick/slender waist, long/short legs, long/short torso and hips size. Additionally, you must consider your bust size accordingly. Many competitors have implants, which are fine, but a proper suit should appropriately cover your bust and not let them protrude on the sides. And ladies without implants, please strongly consider getting padding made into your suit. You can add the store bought pads, but they tend to not provide as much lift as the built in padding. Again, refer to magazines and online pictures of designers you like and consult with your designer to see if that is the best cut suit for you. Many times, there are slight modifications that can be made to your desired suit that can make it more flattering for your figure. Additionally, you may also benefit from seeking out designers who include any necessary alterations in the original price. There are instances when ladies pay $900+ for a tailor made suit, only to find that it is not properly cut and that they need to pay additional money for the designer to make alterations. Once you get the suit, be sure to try it on…..and don’t panic. It never fits exactly like it does the day of the show when you are lean and depleted.
Following these steps will surely get you going in the right direction for selecting the best suit for your first competition.
Although definitely not exhaustive, this list of suit makers will also help you get a jump start on things:
www.sensational-designs.com
www.divaexchangefitness.com
www.christinemarshdesigns.com
www.passionfruitdesigns.com
www.cynthia-james.com
www.merrychristine.com
www.fitweardesigns.com
www.dreamwearonline.com
www.lidiaconti-bodywear.com
www.cryscorner.com
www.thewinningsuit.com
www.fitnessandfigurecompetitionsuits.com
www.jagware-posingsuits.com/
www.fitswim-byceleste.com
www.maggiefit.com
www.ccfitwear.com/
www.fitswim-byceleste.com
www.posingwear.com
www.GoFigureSuits.com
www.bikiniguru.com
www.suityouswimwear.com
www.lindacusmano.com
www.fitnessteambc.com
www.bodyrushpersonaltraining.com
www.bryondavid.com
Posted in Training, Other, Reflections
Friday, October 9th, 2009
When many people decide to compete they get the idea after going to a show or witnessing the transformation of others, but most have no clue where to start. This 4 part series I wrote last year that was published in Natural Muscle Magazine explains how beginners can make competiting a bit easier. Hope you find it useful.
Congratulations! So you’ve decided you want to compete in a Bodybuilding, Fitness, Figure, or Fitness Model Competition. You are motivated and eager to get started. Your workout routine is flawless and people at your gym are cheering you on. You’ve heard that you have to eat…..alot and know that this includes a seemingly infinite amount of protein. But exactly where do you get started on the right dietary and nutritional path to success? Following these brief beginners tips will make the transition a bit less stressful and improve your likelihood for success.
Seek a Competition Qualified Nutritionist
Although many nutritionists and registered dieticians have a plethora of expertise and experience, finding one that has specific experience working with others in the fitness industry is imperative. Start by asking competitors whose physiques you admire who they work with. Talk to trainers, coaches, athletes, and do your research. Once you find a nutritionist, ask to see pictures of several of their clients. Rates are usually not cheap, but you often get what you pay for. This is an investment you definitely want to make. If you are serious about competing AND winning, a nutritionist is usually something you have to add in to your competition budget, at least until you feel you have learned enough to adjust your diet independently. In time you will find that you can adjust your training according to how well you adhere to your nutritional plan.
Plan, Plan, Plan
Food preparation is one of the biggest components and often the biggest downfall of competition prep. If you have limited time, it typically requires you to plan your 6-8 meals per day ahead of time. It may sound simple, but when you consider that you will probably be dieting for 13-16 weeks, that is between 546 and 672 meals to prepare. Without adequate planning it is easy to run out of food, skip meals, or cheat on your diet. People tend to eat the same 6-10 dishes without even realizing it. Figure out what you eat, what you enjoy, and sit down and strategically plan your meals. Of course as the competition date approaches, you may have fewer options, but that is still a ways off.
Prepare Ahead of Time
If you know you will be traveling, or unable to return home to grab a meal, make sure you have enough food to take with you before you leave the house. There is nothing more frustrating than going somewhere and getting stuck or taking longer than expected and realizing you have no more food and it is past time to eat. Always carry more than what you need. You may feel like you look silly lugging around several hours worth of food in your mini cooler, but you will certainly be thankful when an unexpected mishap occurs and you are fully stocked with meals.
Find a Support system
Eating healthy requires discipline. Competition dieting requires even more intense discipline. Although many will support you in your endeavors, others will make seemingly harmless comments that may entice you to skip a meal and “treat yourself” to lunch or happy hour. Surround yourself with others who understand the intensity of your journey. For many, the end is particularly tough, as it may require you to temporarily remove yourself from various settings, people, and situations. Just remember, it is only temporary. If your friends and associates truly care about your efforts, they will understand.
Reassess Progress and Goals Weekly or Bi-weekly
Nutritional planning is not a one size fits all method. Your physique will undergo weekly changes and your diet must be adjusted accordingly. Don’t make the mistake of assuming that because a depletion technique or type of food worked for one person, it will work for you as well. Take time to look at your transformation, consult with your nutritionist, and get critical about the results you want so he/she can help you achieve success.
Although these tips do not guaranty you a first place finish in your initial competition, they will help provide a basic foundation when considering nutritional planning for a show.
Posted in Training, Nutrition
Monday, October 5th, 2009
HEY YOU GUYS….WE DID IT, WE DID IT, WE DID IT!!!Thank you so much to all who put up with my daily "vote for me" messages for the past month. You all put me through to Round 1 of the Spokesmodel Contest! THANK YOU SO MUCH!! Out of all the wonderful ladies I truly feel honored and blessed that you all took time out of your schedules to vote for me. I appreciate all that you’ve done from the bottom of my heart! Your kindness, motivation, and words of encouragement have truly been a blessing for me with regard to fitness and life in general. So again, thank you so much! MUAH, MUAH, MUAH….KISSES AND HUGS FOR EVERYONE!!!
Posted in Other, Reflections, Just for Fun
Sunday, October 4th, 2009
This week’s 20 Questions segment is dedicated to the Olympia I attended last week Sautrday in Las Vegas…..enjoy! 
1) Why do people have to check in extra luggage when flying back home from the Olympia expo with all the freebies?
2)Why when they open the expo doors at 10am do people sprint in the building like expo is not going to be open 8 hours?
3)Why was EFX sponsored athlete Jon Hanley so knowledgable about our products that he was able to effectively communicate with a deaf customer and sell him product?” (Go Oak!)
4)Why did everyone at the Olympia and Expo have on Ed Hardy?
5)Is that still in style?
6)Why was the Flex Wheeler Signature Series/EFX Lamborgini the baddest looking car in the expo?
7)Why is it so funny to watch grown men turn into “kids in candy stores” at the expo while grabbing handfulls of supplements looking at all the half naked girl?
8 Why do people fly in from all over the world just to attend the expo?
9)Why were there so many boos while calling out the top 10 at Mr. Olympia last weekend?
10)Why do people have to show off their bodies just because they attend a fitness expo, even if they have not worked out in years?
11)Why do people take free stuff from the booths even if they don’t know what they are taking?
12)Did anyone see the silver guy at the Olympia expo? (pretty cool!)
13)Why didn’t some of the contestants in the FLEX Magazine bikini model contest practice walking in their heels before they got on stage?
14)Why did I meet sooooo many people from Bodyspace at the expo? (Whoo-hoo!)
15)Why did people who brought babies in strollers to the expo forget they had a child in the seat by the end of the day because the stroller was filled with free samples?
16)Why did a guy steal 10 lady’s t-shirts from my booth after I told him the shirts were not free? (Don’t let me catch you man!!)
17)Why did EFX have the best looking sponsored athletes out of all the supplement companies?
18)Why do supplement company’s “booth girls” know very little about the products their bodies are selling?
19)Why did Gina Aliotti’s posing suits designed by Bryon David look awesome during the figure Olympia show?
20)What do you think?
Posted in Other, Reflections, Just for Fun
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