OPINION: 5 Reasons Not To Compete in Bodybuilding Shows

5 Reasons/Excuses to Not Compete in Bodybuilding Shows

Many people who are serious about bodybuilding have a dream of stepping onto the stage one day. Competing in a bodybuilding show is a certificate in itself that you’re serious about your craft. On the other hand, there are people who would do anything to escape the idea of stepping onto a stage with ripped guys.

Since you’re reading this article, we’re assuming you’re from the latter group. Once you’re done with this article, you’ll have enough things to say to people who suggest you should compete in bodybuilding shows.

1. Genetics

Not everyone is born to be a bodybuilder. Genetics play a major role in shaping your muscles. If you have a genetically weak muscle group, don’t bother getting on stage and wasting your, your competitor’s, the audience’s and the judge’s time.

No matter how hard you workout, someone genetically superior will always beat you. You can’t overlook your muscle proportions while preparing for a contest. Even if one of your muscle groups is lagging, you should consider dropping out of the competition.

2. Conditioning

Bodybuilding shows are supposed to be freak shows. People fill up auditoriums to look at muscular giants. If you’re planning to compete, make sure you do justice to these people and give them their money’s worth.

If your muscles aren’t in their peak conditions and the lines and striations don’t show, you should save yourself the trouble of getting up on the stage. Do everyone a favor, get a seat in the audience and enjoy the show.

3. Stage Fright

Not everyone can handle the pressure which comes with getting on a stage. If you’re good enough, you’ll be asked to perform your routine which means you’ll have to handle the stage and the audience single-handedly.

Posing is easier said than done. Legends like Arnold and Kai Greene have been documented taking posing classes, and you might need one (or many) as well. If you can’t think of showing off your ripped physique without getting overwhelmed, bodybuilding shows aren’t for you.

4. Someone is Pushing You

We appreciate the fact you have supportive friends and family, but this shouldn’t be the only reason for you to compete. Take a long and close look at your physique before deciding to sign the competition contract.

Run through the list of athletes competing in the show and make sure you stand a chance against them. Having an experienced coach will pay dividends when it comes to having honest opinion and feedback about your physique.

5. Bad Skin