People always ask me how I got my start in bodybuilding, and I always tell them that it’s really not that good of a story. One day I just started picking up heavy weights. That’s really all you need to do to call yourself a bodybuilder (weightlifter, powerlifter, etc.): train in the style of your chosen sport. You don’t need to buy fancy clothing, shoes, or supplements, or even sign up for a competition. Nope! All you have to do to be a bodybuilder is train like one.
If you’re training like a bodybuilder and you find yourself enjoying it, well, maybe then it’s time to take the next step and start to eat like one too, with five or six small, balanced meals a day. You could do some research into macro counting and start tracking your protein, fat, and carbs. Take baby steps like these and add little pieces to the bodybuilding puzzle.
I wish someone had told me all these “bodybuilding secrets” when I first started bodybuilding, because I jumped in with both feet. Why? I guess I thought I had to in order to call myself a bodybuilder. My meals were bland and boring every day for years when I could (and should) have been having fun with my diet! Even now I’m still learning how to be a bodybuilder who has a healthy and varied diet. So, in the interest of people doing as I say and not as I do, I’m sharing a list of…
Things No One Told Me About Bodybuilding
#1) If you do decide to compete, realize that competing is extremely expensive. Purchasing a competition suit and jewelry ($500+), booking a competition spray tan ($100+), having your hair and makeup done ($200+), not to mention the cost of travel and lodging – it all adds up in no time. The only feasible ways to do multiple competitions in a year are to a) have a good deal of disposable income or b) have competition sponsors who cover one or more of these costs in exchange for publicity.
I don’t have any sponsors (someone, sponsor me!) so I’m ashamed to say that I’ve racked up a balance on my credit card from all the competitions I did over the past few years. I hate the feeling of debt just sitting there, so I’m going to take my time building muscle for my next competition so I can pay it down at the same time.
#2) You cannot and should not look competition-ready all year. This is very hard to accept, because looking competition-ready is awesome. However fun it is to trounce around with the bare minimum of body fat, it’s not sustainable or healthy, so admire it while it lasts and enjoy a softer off-season witcha big booty self.
#3) It’s okay to “not feel like it” sometimes. Sometimes you’re not going to feel like going to the gym. Sometimes you’re not going to feel like eating a clean meal. There is nothing wrong with feeling those things. Sometimes you’ll need to push past those feelings and hit the gym and eat your clean meal. Sometimes you’ll be able to give yourself a break. You’re human, and anyone who claims to be on point 100% of the time is either lying or making some serious sacrifices in their life to do so.
#4) It’s hard to date “normal people” when you’re a bodybuilder. I have tried it, and it has either strained the relationship or strained my training and dieting, and neither of those things are good. It’s a lot easier to date someone who is also an athlete, whether a bodybuilder or not, because they will understand the way you prioritize things in your life and therefore your hobby won’t come between the two of you. I’m sure there are many exceptions out there, but so far, this has been my experience.
#5) There is almost as much fit-shaming as there is fat-shaming out there. What a time to be alive, right? You can’t win for losing! My best advice is to limit your social media usage and always remember that Dita Von Teese quote: “You can be the ripest, juiciest peach in the world, and there’s still going to be somebody who hates peaches.”
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Nick Carter says
howdy Chanelle!
Aha. With me, i had no idea about the costs! and this article was an interesting read. I agree with you about the “peaches” thing. I really like the peaches quote.
Thanks and good luck!
Katya says
Great post! I’ve done a bikini contest a few years ago and I agree with all you just said. It’s so expensive! And nobody seemed to “get it” why I needed to compete…
#BodybuilderProblems 😉
Ayesha Heart says
Being beautiful and fit is expensive but I guess it is all worth the money. If you’re happy to do anything, work for it, earn and buy or avail any service that you want to make you happy inside and out.
Chei Pangan says
Very great story! Very Inspiring
Laura Ingalls Gunn says
This was such an interesting post. You truly look fabulous. Love the Dita Von Teese quote. Thank you so very much for linking up this week at Thoughts of Home on Thursday! We love the special sparkle that you add to the gathering.
Laura says
Thank you for joining us at Thoughts of Home.
Hope to see you next week too.
Beverly says
Love your post and your insights. My daughter started body building but messed up her back so now just training. You look great. Keep going!
Bev
Leslie Hernandez says
Awesome!! Babe seriously don’t pay attention to people do what makes you happy people talk regardless of what you do or look like. Just be happy with yourself and how you look. Body building is not for everyone but it is pretty awesome and takes a lot of work and dedication so I truly admire you for it. I have been struggling a lot with wait mainly because of my eating habits but I am trying to eat healthy and exercise daily.
Great Post!!
xoxo
Victoria Stacey says
“#5) There is almost as much fit-shaming as there is fat-shaming out there.” This is so true! Everyone is quick to judge on bodies, regardless of how they look.
Debbie Rodrigues says
I love it, love it, love it!
It’s expensive, isn’t it?
I learned a lot about myself and my body in my short life as a competitor. Even though I chose to stop, I don’t regret doing.
By the way, you look fabulous!!!
Chanelle says
It’s crazy expensive. Thanks for the kind words and for reading!
Amber Starr at Mommy Gone Healthy says
The body shaming of all sizes and types has got to stop. I don’t understand why people cannot be more kind and supportive. And girl….you look amazing!
Joyce | Live Laugh Love Post says
Awesome photos! Your post is so inspired 🙂 My husband needs that one, he is trying to do his bodybuilding at home. I do not know that completing is so expensive :-/
Kira C says
I had a friend who was training to be a body builder and I think these would be some great tips to help him out and boost his confidence!
Leigh Anne Borders says
What an inspiration! I have a friend that does this as well.
Kathy Kenny Ngo says
I adore those who have self discipline. I don’t even go to gym.
Ana says
You’re so inspirational! Wish I could make my body like you!
Jessica Harlow says
I think you look amazing and give you total props for making it happen. I can certainly understand that there is just as much fit-shaming as fat-shaming. As long as you are happy and healthy, that’s all that matters!
Melissa Bernardo says
Wow! I would never be able to do this! You look awesome!
Anosa says
That quote at the end is so true, there will always be someone who hates whatever it is even if you’re the best at it. These are some lovely secrets for those thinking of body building
Eugenia says
You look fantastic, your body is excellent! I admire your determination and passion, you achieved such a great result without any sponsor! That’s simply amazing! Thanks for sharing the advices! Good to know all the tips!
Jessica says
The secrets are finally revealed. And I finally have an idea on how your life is. I always and will forever adore the discipline and passion of bodybuilders! 🙂
James Robert says
Incredible and what determination you have. I found it interesting and something I never thought about was the dating aspect. I guess it would be in your best interest to date the athlete. Thanks so much for sharing and congrats on such great work. You look incredible!
Stephanie Phelps says
Wow you look amazing first and for most and second that is a lot to consider financially and personally. Good for you though knowing what you want and doing it for you! I would have never guessed that you do not train all the time to look like a body builder I just thought thats all you did! I hope you get a sponsor soon you deserve it!
cathy says
My hubby was a body builder when I met him so I can completely relate ! 🙂 Awesome determination and success to achieve your goals! Keep reaching for the stars! 🙂
kesha says
I did not realize it was so expensive! I am totally motivated now though!
Lisa Brown says
I do wish you had sponsors, it is difficult doing something you like and it costing do much. You look amazing 🙂
Agnes Dela Cruz says
Such determination! I wish I have that too in my system when it comes to having that bodybuilding body. Congratulations!
Jasmine Watts says
You look absolutely amazing! I had no idea how expensive it was to compete. Interesting post!
Vyjay says
There is such a lot more to body building that is not apparent to all, apart from the punishing workouts and strict diets.
Travel Blogger says
I had no idea it cost so much to compete! An expensive hobby for sure! But rewarding in so many ways as well I’m sure.
Toughcookiemommy says
You bring up a great point about dating someone who has similar interests and understands your priorities. That will make communication so much easier with that person.
Natalie says
I never realized how expensive body building can be. A few of my friends are body builders and have crazy diets.
Janet W. says
Wow you look absolutely amazing! I didn’t realize the competition aspect of bodybuilding could be so expensive!
Dana Rodriguez says
Love this post. I figured it was probably expensive to maintain but I hadn’t thought about some of the other things you brought up. Thanks for the LOL at your remark “enjoy a softer off-season witcha big booty self ” haha Great pictures by the way too. Thanks for sharing 🙂
Echo says
I had no idea that so much went into professional bodybulding! You have opened my eyes! You also look fantastic, by the way!
christina aliperti says
I never realized how expensive those competitions could be! I admire your dedication to body building and you look absolutely strong and gorgeous!
Toughcookiemommy says
I never realized that they were so expensive to participate in either. It takes a lot of income to plan ahead financially for any competition.
Laura H says
It’s a shame that you don’t think a body-builder can date a non-body-builder. It is a way of life though so I can understand why that would be the case 🙁
Mami2jcn says
I completely agree with the Dita Von Teese quote!
Enricoh Alfonzo says
wow you look amazing! I had no idea how expensive it was to compete, really opened my mind as I have a few friends who compete and they haven’t mentioned that.
this >>>>>> softer off-season witcha big booty self.” hahahahhahahah!!! cracked me up so much! very down to earth of you.
Great tips and wisdom shared
Annie says
Oh my, thank you! You put the “human” into the “bodybuilding”. I’m not a bodybuilder, well, to be honest, I’m not exactly an active person at all. But lately, I noticed that more and more people talks about bodybuilding and most of those people are just pure assholes who have no idea what they’re talking about so they speak of bodybuilders as some sort of alien species. It’s ridiculous. Like you mentioned, there’s shaming of everything basically and it’s getting out of hand…
Chanelle says
Thanks for the kind words! Not all of us are meanies 🙂
Ana De- Jesus says
No one should fit shame you because you look so good trust me. I know what you mean about finding it hard to date someone that does not understand your way of life.
Rachel says
This is such a great post and I think we forget about fitshaming, but you are right it does happen x
Karen Glatt says
Very good points about bodybuilding. I always wondered if it was difficult to date when you are a bodybuilder because it could probably be hard on the other person. I knew it was extensive, but I guess if it is doing something you love, then you will find a way to pay for it. You sure are an inspiration with your fitness routine!
Jessica McDonnell says
This is such an interesting post. You look so great, I hope you get a sponsor soon.
Ashleigh Walls says
It’s crazy what you have to do to get yourself in that shape and at your expense too. Hopefully you will get some sponsors within the next few years!
Kerry says
Being a fitness instructor, I have many friends in the business and believe me you are totally right – it does come at a price!! Some people struggle with the expensive gym memberships never mind everything else. Such a great post for people who aren’t familiar.
Rosey says
My oldest son builds but only for himself. He hasn’t done it professionally. I’m sure he has the discipline to do so and he def. could do the eating right (and does most of the time). He tells me his protein/veggie whatever schedule but I only half listen because I’m dreaming of my potato chips when he starts talking about food. 😉 The cost would be too prohibitive for him. He’s supporting his wife and daughter, and they are just doing good. Excess expense would tilt them. Bet he’d love it though! Nice of you to share these tips.
Jay Simms says
Thinking about the dating aspect of being a body builder, it really must be a totally different world.
Krystle Cook says
I never thought that bodybuilding could be such an expensive sport. Good luck with all your endeavors!
Sarah Bailey says
I was pretty much clueless about this way of life. Thanks for sharing a glimpse into your world.
Bethany Naismith says
Wow! This is so amazing, I didn’t really think about much of this before but that’s seriously impressive!
Emily says
Hot damn girl!!! As a trainer I have awareness around the body building industry. I think that anyone who decides to give it a shot should also be aware of the post-show depression, poor body image, and disordered eating that can happen. Like you said, a competition body is not year-round. Some people have more issue with this than others. Also, some people’s bodies do not naturally get that lean. In fact, most people’s bodies don’t get naturally that lean. So when they restrict calories that low they can experience a post-show “rebound.” It’s just as important to have a plan post-show for diet and exercise to ease back to regular eating habits as it is pre-show! Thanks for bringing light to this! 🙂
Chanelle says
Absolutely! Reverse dieting is a very smart idea.
Stefan - The Millennial Budget says
Love the fit-shaming and the dating pointers you made. Bodybuilders can be daunting but from the ones I have met they are all great, highly motivated people.
Heather Lawrence says
I am just starting to understand what you are referring too. My hubby and I are on day 4 of the 21 day fix and already we are finding it a lot harder to socialize with friends especially if it involves food! I can only imagine how much harder it must be for you when your in competition mode.
Rachel Mouton says
You are fabulous! I am always in awe of all of the work you put into your body and looking amazing. These are great pointers 🙂
Cori says
“You can be the ripest, juiciest peach in the world, but there will still be somebody who hates peaches.” True true true!
Angie Scheie says
This is great insight into your world! I kind of just assume that you all have those bodies year round, but that makes total sense why you wouldn’t. Wishing you a sponsor soon so you can keep doing what you love!
Nicole Escat says
It is hard to date, seriously?! I don’t mind dating you if I am on the opposite sex, but sorry I’m already taken! Just kidding, lol!
Chanelle says
Hehehe!
Roxy says
I didn’t know any of this! I can’t believe how expensive those outfits are and I’d totally think it would easier to date having such a normal physique.
Jolina says
Just WOW, girl! You’re amazing. And this post is really interesting; I certainly understand your point about hard to date “normal people”. Not just the lifestyle but I imagine agreeing on food choices alone can be challenging!
Melisa says
This is very interesting. I never knew how much it takes to be a body builder. I really just thought about all the physical stuff.
April Hammond says
I used to nanny for a female body builder, this post gave me more insight into her life. I didn’t know doing competitions cost so much, it makes signing up for races a cheap sport.
Elizabeth says
A fascinating read! You are such an inspiring person, thank you! 🙂
Hannah says
I never even thought about how expensive it must be! x
Dannii @ Hungry Healthy Happy says
I have a friend that competed and she was amazed at how expensive things were, especially the bikinis.
nicol says
wow i didnt think that a body building spray tan would cost that much! this was insightful
Melanie Smith says
This post is so good! I didn’t know any of that.
Michele says
I’m glad you realize that body building 100% of the time is not healthy–but then anything done 100% of the time which forces you to skip certain food groups is not all that good for you either. I am always on a diet (diabetic if anything)-until I’m not–like yesterday–my poor body and mind was craving Lemon Chicken–so after about 3 hours of thinking about said very bad for me stuff-I drove to a local Chinese Rest and got takeout–not to mention everything else I ate yesterday. Hey it happens—listen to your body!!
aziel morte says
Such a great points! You are really inspiring
Mauie says
I admire you for your passion and dedication in body building. Too bad that there really are people who can be happy for you all the time, especially on social media.
Carol Bryant says
I must say that reading your journey has inspired me whenever I feel like I need an extra push. No matter what, if we want something we stick to it and get it. Way to go!
Courtneylynne says
Great pointers! I haven mentioned this 52891 other times on various post, but I have tons of friends who compete!!! It’s crazy how expensive it is!
Tee says
Wow, I didn’t realize how expensive it is to compete for body builders! You look great and thanks for the advice. And we (especially as women) need to support each other not shame each other.
Maryann Peik says
Interesting points! You look fabulous and such an inspiration!
Michelle Gwynn Jones says
Competing in any sport always seems to cost more than one expects.
susan quackenbush says
I am 55 years old and have 5 grandchildren. You inspire me and I thank you for that!
The Southern Stylista says
You look amazing in competition shape! I wish I had the dedication and drive to accomplish that!
xoxo, SS
Southern And Style
Dawn McAlexander says
I have learned to tell myself that it is ok not to feel like it sometimes. I used to worry and stress over not getting any work done when I wasn’t feeling it, but not anymore.
Bella says
All of these things make sense but I would have never thought about it. The financial aspect of it must be difficult when you’re just trying to display your success but it is a business after all.
tp keane says
I never thought of it as a business either. The cost alone of the tan is crazy. More power to her.
sophia says
Your body is amazing. I love your build.
Elizabeth O. says
I always thought there were special specifications in order to be considered a bodybuilder. I didn’t know that all you had to do was actually lift weights like everyone else. Having a slow change of lifestyle makes sense and it’s easier to adjust to it than changing all at once.
adriana says
Wow you look awesome! I give all body builders so much credit – I bet it’s SO much harder than it looks! Congrats on all your progress!
Lisa Favre says
You look absolutely amazing! My husband’s friend is a bodybuilder and it’s always fun to hear stories and tips from her!
Kristin says
I hate that body shaming exists in any form! Working toward a goal like this and taking such good care of the body you’ve been given…I think that’s amazing!
Kathleen Kennedy-Leon says
what dedication and committment you have–good for you! You look fantastic and are leading a healthy lifestyle-a very positive role model
Jenn @ EngineerMommy says
This is definitely interesting! Bodybuilding can definitely require a lot of hard work and determination. It’s amazing what the human body is capable of when focused on building muscles and getting fit! Very inspiring.
Kendra says
Great advice! I honestly don’t think my husband and I would have made it passed the dating stage if he didn’t like going to the gym as much as I did. Now we go together and understand when we want to workout on our own.
Renz says
You are gorgeous. I don’t want to compete but I do want to say “I lifted”. I hope you find a sponsor soon. I have a few friends that compete and I know they complain about the cost. Good luck with everything
Helene Cohen Bludman says
You look amazing. Even better, you take care of yourself and it shows.
Nellwyn says
I’m so impressed! I’m only just starting to think about adding weights into my workout routine since I’ve never really done them before. I’ve always been more of a dance/yoga/pilates girl but I’d really like to be stronger.
Stephanie of The TipToe Fairy says
I love reading your insights into bodybuilding. I have never know anyone who’s done it, so it’s really interesting to see your perspective on it.
Amy Jones says
I really admire body builders, their bodies are a peace of art!
Brandy says
These are interesting bodybuilding secrets to learn. Happy to know more about it, what an interesting lifestyle to lead!
Alli says
I can tell you walk the walk – the proof is in how awesome you look. If you have a few (cough) lbs. to lose, should you lose the weight first and then start lifting weights or go ahead and start lifting? I’ve often wondered.
Chanelle says
I would go ahead and start lifting. The more muscle you have, the more calories your body is able to burn, even at rest!
Carrie says
I definitely understand that it is certainly a commitment. I also don’t think I could ever do it! I applaud you for finding something you enjoy!
Neely (@Neelykins) says
I have huge respect for anyone who commits to bodybuilding. Amazing.
Carol Cassara says
It is a huge commitment. I have to say….you look great. It has definitely paid off for you.
Cindy Ingalls says
You gotta love social media. It gives everyone an excuse to share their peach hatting opinions. Hiding behind a computer screen makes it way to easy to be jerk. I think it’s amazing what you’ve accomplished, and your dedication to training is so impressive.
Annemarie LeBlanc says
Wow. I had no idea about the costs! This article was an interesting read. I agree with you about the “peaches” thing. As long as you are happy with what you are doing, then just go ahead and continue with your passion.
Cris of Kiss My Tulle says
Bodybuilding isn’t my thing but I absolutely LOVE lifting. I am amazed by how good it feels to be a strong bad ass in the weight room!
Katie says
It takes a lot of work and dedication to look like that! Even if I can’t duplicate it, I still respect it! 🙂
Candy says
Body building is not my thing. Eating clean and healthy is something I can and need to do
Mimi Green says
I was curious about how one gets started. Not that I’m interested because I love my #FatSnacks but like you I thought you had to do a balls to the wall type of deal. I feel stupid knowing it is not that serious.
Favorite part of this entire post “off-season witcha big booty self.” Yes, I spend my life trying to get said big booty. hahahaha
Shirley Wood says
You really put that in perspective. I think we could extrapolate your points into quite a few different hobbies. I especially like your point about dating and body shaming. You are so right, there will always be someone who doesn’t like ‘peaches!’ You are good at what you do!
tp keane says
What great tips and advice. I’d love to do something like this. I used to be a competitive swimmer but since my younger days I’ve had back issues. poop.
mary says
I never thought about any of this before reading your post. Great info. I don’t know if I could date a body builder – actually – it would probably motivate me to shape up!!
Joanna says
Your story is very impressive, I had no idea it is so hard to be and maintain being a bodybuilder. I had no idea that it involves so much costs either. I really like how you ended your article. There will always be someone who won’t like you… and all you can do about it is accept it.
StressedMum says
I never realised how expensive it all was, but that is more ignorance on my side as I never really thought of it. This is such a great post and one that should be shown to those wanting to follow this path.
Pam says
I agree. I never thought about all that was involved in competing so I never really realized how expensive it could be.
samantha rickelton says
I didn’t realise there was so much expense involved in competing!
Kristi says
Interesting…. I had no idea you should not look competition ready all year round, that taking time off is important, makes sense though but I would think it would be hard to change the focus a bit.
Jennifer Henry-Novich says
What a great look into the world of body building. The fact that you brought up fit-shaming is awesome. I know that there is tons of that out there even though people just focus on the fat shamers.
Robin Rue says
Body building is definitely something that has always interested me. I never knew that you had off-season too where you just let the fat come back. That is so awesome to know that you don’t always have to be competition ready for something like this.
Joanna says
An interesting read you look amazing.
Cassie says
You have an incredible body! You obviously put a lot of work into it and you should be proud – those fit-shamers are just jealous. I learned so much about bodybuilding that if not known before reading this post.
LaaLaa says
You look amazing, some good pointers. Amazing discipline, it was nice to read this as I’ve never read anything from a female bodybuilder before.
Jemma says
Great post! I think bodybuilders are incredibly disciplined. I’m not sure I could do it.
Claire says
What an interesting post – like a window into a world I’ve never experienced!
Amanda Love says
It’s good to know these things. And although I don’t plan to become a bodybuilder any time soon, it would be nice to live a healthy lifestyle. It may not be as intense, but I think the same logic applies. Do it slowly and you’ll get used to the routine in no time!
Adriana Lopez-Martin says
I think this is a lifestyle, you look amazing. Super fit and pretty. I wish I could have the inspiration to just workout =)
Karla says
You look amazing, and as always, I admire your dedication. I really like the peaches quote. People who say negative things are usually insecure, so don’t waste your valuable energy on them!
Chrystal | Nevermore Lane says
Chanelle I love your posts! I find you to be such an inspiration. Thank you for being so honest and real with this post.
Jeanine says
I struggle with clean eating now, there is no way I’d be able to do it for something like this. I admire you greatly for your strength! I think what you are doing is so awesome. these are a lot of things you didn’t know before hand!
Lindsey says
Great pick me up in that quote! I love the small steps rule. It helps me get more accomplished.
Melisasource says
I have been trying to get in shape, which is very hard, so I can only imagine what it takes to get ‘competition ready’ I hope you find a sponsor and continue to pursue your passion for body building debt free!
Val says
I can imagine body building brings out a whole new world, I also would have to wonder about dating. Glad you mentioned it as I was kind of curious. Loved learning more today!
Marcie W. says
I refer to myself as a gym rat, but have never opened the door to actual bodybuilding, so I find this information fascinating. Someone needs to sponsor you like yesterday, especially given the reach of your online voice.
Toni | BoulderLocavore.com says
You have a very inspiring story! I never thought it is so expensive to compete!
Pam says
I love reading your posts about body building. I had no idea that it was so expensive to compete!
Stacie @ Divine Lifestyle says
This is a great post. I only known about most of this because I have a friend who lifts. You look so good in your photos, I can’t believe you haven’t gotten any sponsors yet! =(
Shell says
Love that quote about peaches!
You have some excellent advice here.
Catherine S says
This is a great post. I think I would struggle with the clean eating. I always seem to cheat when I am trying to eat healthier.