Juliana Malacarne wins the Olympia women's physique division
If you have been on any of the social media forums this weekend, you probably know that this weekend is a biggie in the fitness world. The Big Kahuna, the Olympia, has been running all weekend in Las Vegas. It seems like just about everyone is there. Tanned and toned, and collecting autographs and protein-packed goodies. I feel like I haven't missed a beat because of the frenzy of posts and updates; although, it would have been really fun to attend.
I love to see the incredible fiugres built and chiseled by perfect diets and grueling workous. It takes an immense dedication for every competitor to present their bodies on that famous stage. As I have participated in my fair share of competitions in the past year and a half, I know what kind of focus and willpower goes into competeing, and it definitely isn't an easy task.
In the midst of my admiration for the athletes competing this weekend; however, I can't help thinking more about how the explosion on my news feed has been effecting me.
I am not competition lean right now...in fact, I have yet again allowed myself to gain a about five pounds over what I like to maintain in the off season (not 5 pounds over stage weight...5 pounds over happy maintenance weight). Seeing all the incredible figures of the competitors and the athletes at the convention booths is awesome, but also brings some scrutiny to my current physical state. I am rounder in the middle and have some little dimples on my legs...and I realize that I am the only person who really sees the differences that come with an extra five pounds on my body...however; I find myself wishing I was stage ready again, wishing I had a visible six pack, and wishing there were a long line of admirers waiting anxiously to meet me.
I daily have to remind myself that fitness isn't a one way road. There are going to be days that I choose to enjoy an abundance of calories in order to enjoy the time I have with my family and friends. There are going to be days that I am just too tired, or too busy to go to the gym. I might get sick and need time to recover, stalling my workouts and maybe making it difficult to eat properly. I might want to go on a vacation. I have to remind myself that I want to LIVE. Yes, I want to look drop-dead awesome...but not at the expense of really enjoying life...and the off-season is definitely a good time to take advantage of every minute that I have to just live. There will be another stage to step on and another trophy to chase. I aspire to compete in some big a** shows...but, right now it's time to enjoy some time off :)
I plan to hit the stage again next summer:) My improvement season mantra: build bigger muscles...and eat some birthday cake;)
