He expressed the intensity in bodybuilding and competing. Arnold presented the sport with such a positive demeanor, how could it be wrong.
Well the reality is, it's tough. Arnold states in the movie that it is like he is always in a euphoric state. He failed to mention the strict diet, strict is an understatement. If you thought you were a healthy eater prior to this adventure. Your wrong. Arnold seemed so happy all the time in the movie, he lied, your grumpy. Low blood sugar levels, cutting carbs, cutting calories and eating the same food two or three times a day, expect to be grumpy, Read all the articles you want, nothing prepares you for the journey your about to go on.
You've decided you want to compete. First things first. You need to decided what league your going to compete in. They all have their perks and benefits. Let's look at the Ontario Physique Association. The OPA hosts 15 shows a year. Some include naturals, which require drug testing and some do not. The OPA will take you the furthest and provide more opportunities to advance. There is also the World Bodybuilding and Fitness Federation and International Drug Free Association. Both of these are equally as competitive, they just seem to be more highlighted. More opportunities for coverage. So, pick your association and then pick a date.
Next it's time for the reality check. You look good. You know you look good. Go find a coach. Make sure you connect well with this person, they will be your lifeline. Meet with your coach for the first time and get ready for the bomb. It's gonna hurt.
Your going to hear the words "You have a lot of work to do, but you have a good base." Ouch four years of training and thats all you have? a good base. All the time, the weight loss, the dieting, everything and all you have is a good base? Well suck it up and let the fun begin.
One of the first things you should get from your coach/trainer is your meal plan. The first two weeks are either going to make or break you. Some can't make it past the first four days. You are going to be in physical pain. First part of your nutrition should be a flush. It will be painful. You will feel the years of bad food and damage peeling off the intestinal walls by day four maybe five. Just like crack and cocaine, sugar is addictive. You will experience headaches, confusion, stomach cramps, aggression, anxiety and expect a bout of diarrhea . However, your body will feel like a million bucks and you'll have a ton of energy. You will be insanely hungry, oh, so hungry. Your stomach is shrinking. Let it happen. There are ways around the hunger though. Discuss with your trainer what will be best for you.
You will soon see how strict and organized your life needs to become. You just made one of the most life altering decisions. There will be more diet experiences to follow. If you don't want to wait, just ask the trainer and ask your question!