Bodybuilders of all levels as well as contest prep coaches and practitioners who prepare clients for competition.
Table of Contents:
Introduction. Evolution of the Sport of Bodybuilding
Early Physique Competitions
The Early 1900s
Pre–Golden Era
Golden Era
Is it possible for bodybuilding competitors to compete in another strength sport (powerlifting, for example)?
The Late 20th Century
Chapter 1. The Art and Science of Bodybuilding
New Divisions
Drug-Tested Bodybuilding
Misinformed Approaches to Contest Preparation
Many competitors at my gym use methods you do not recommend yet have been successful in their competitions. Why should I follow the approaches discussed in this book rather than what the guys at my gym are doing?
Chapter 2. Sorting Through the Sanctions
Drug Use in Bodybuilding
Untested Amateur Sanctions
If I am drug-free, can I compete in untested competitions?
Untested Professional Sanctions
Drug-Tested Sanctions
Are banned substances taken for diagnosed medical reasons allowed in drug-tested competitions?
If I win a pro card in one sanction, can I compete in professional competitions in other sanctions?
Chapter 3. Breaking Down the Divisions and Classes
Criteria Defined
Men’s Divisions
Women’s Divisions
Can a competitor compete in more than one division at a show?
Final Word on Division Criteria
I feel like I may be able to compete in more than one division. How do I choose the best division for me?
Classes
Why are there multiple classes within the same show? For example, why are there three open men’s bodybuilding classes?
Can competitors make a living from prize money earned in professional competitions?
Can a competitor compete in more than one class at a show?
Chapter 4. The Reality of Readiness
New Competitors
As a new competitor attending a competition for the first time, is it important for me to attend a competition in the sanction in which I plan to compete?
Experienced Competitors
Would you ever recommend competing with less time between shows?
Readiness for Contest Prep
Patience and Time Pay Off
Chapter 5. Show Selection and Timing: The Secrets of Preparation
Selecting the Right Show
What is the best time for me to start contest prep?
Appropriate Rate of Loss
Does my weight need to decrease to get stage-lean?
Benefits of Longer Prep Time
Determining Needed Prep Time
Do I need to select a show before starting contest prep?
Could I achieve stage-lean levels of body fat in less time than you recommend?
Chapter 6. Fueling Your Physique for Contest Preparation
Energy Balance
Caloric Intake
What do I do if I fall off my nutrition plan for a day?
Macronutrients
Are high-protein diets safe?
Should I be concerned about sugar intake during contest prep?
Individual Differences in Macronutrient Needs
What is the best way to accurately measure my food?
Fiber
Vitamins and Minerals
Can I have artificial sweeteners during contest prep?
Meal Frequency
Protein Timing
Carbohydrate Timing
Refeeds
Diet Breaks
Monitoring Progress
How should a woman handle weight fluctuations due to her menstrual cycle?
Plateaus
Chapter 7. Tweaking Your Physique for Contest Preparation
Increasing Energy Expenditure
Should I do cardio fasted?
If I am lifting weights and doing cardio in the same workout, which should I do first?
Resistance Training
What is the mind-muscle connection I have heard about?
How many days a week should I be in the gym?
Do I need to train to failure? If so, should I do it in every workout?
Monitor the Need for Recovery
Sample Training Programs
Chapter 8. The Art of Posing
Bodybuilding (Men and Women)
Classic Physique (Men)
Men’s Physique
Women’s Physique
Figure (Women)
Bikini (Women)
Posing Routines and T-Walks
Effective Practice Posing
Should I practice the poses in my posing suit?
Should I pose in a sauna?
Chapter 9. The Finishing Touches and Final Preparation
Practice
Music
Posing Suit
Shoes
Jewelry
Hair Removal
Tanning
Do all competitions allow the same type of tan?
Do I need to get a base tan in a tanning bed before my competition?
Makeup and Hair
Other Logistical Details
Chapter 10. Peak Week Explained
The Mysterious Peak Week
Prerequisites for Effective Peaking
Terminology and Definitions
Peak Week Objectives
Peak Week Objective Nonstarters
Carbohydrates
Water
Would you ever recommend that a competitor cut water during peak week?
Sodium-Potassium Balance
Peaking Network
Peak Week Strategies
Learning Your Load Look and Choosing a Peaking Strategy
Peak Week Training
Peak Week Cardio
Managing Your Physique on Show Day
What if I mistime my sodium, sugar, and pump up backstage, and I am too early?
The Perfect Peak?
Chapter 11. Contest Weekend: Strategizing for Success
Focus on What You Can Control
The Day Before the Show
Show Day
How ready should I be when I arrive at the venue on show day?
Can I go out to eat after prejudging?
After the Show
Chapter 12. After the Event: Recovery and Recommendations
Postshow Analysis
Competing in Multiple Shows
Physiology of Being Stage-Lean
Transitioning to the Off-Season
Does everyone need to regain body fat after a show?
About the Author :
Peter J. Fitschen, PhD, CSCS, is the owner of FITbody and Physique, where he works full time as a contest prep coach. His combination of education and experience are unique in the sport of bodybuilding. He has a PhD in nutritional sciences from the University of Illinois, a master’s degree in biology with a physiology concentration, and a bachelor’s degree in biochemistry from the University of Wisconsin at La Crosse. As a researcher, Fitschen has coauthored 18 peer-reviewed publications, including several directly related to bodybuilding contest preparation. He is certified as a strength and conditioning specialist (CSCS) through the National Strength and Conditioning Association. He has been competing in natural bodybuilding since 2004 and won his natural pro card in 2012.
Cliff Wilson is a professional natural bodybuilder and one of the top physique coaches in the industry, having established himself through his work with competitive bodybuilders and powerlifters. Using a combination of scientifically proven methods and experience-driven techniques, Wilson’s clients have amassed over 100 pro cards, more than 60 professional titles, and 9 world championships. His reputation as a coach has also allowed him to become a noted fitness author, with articles published in dozens of magazines and websites. Wilson is also a noted guest speaker who has given lectures around the world.
Review :
“Cliff and Peter have established themselves as among the best at precompetition coaching. Together, they have written the most comprehensive book on the topic to date. Anyone interested in physique competition would benefit from giving it a read.”
Brad Schoenfeld, PhD, CSCS,*D, CSPS,*D, NSCA-CPT,*D, FNSCA, Author of The M.A.X. Muscle Plan and Science and Development of Muscle Hypertrophy
"This book is the how-to of bodybuilding! I'm a firm believer in knowing the science behind every aspect of competition; Cliff and Pete provide just that in Bodybuilding.”
Cyd Gillon, Two-Time Ms. Figure Olympia
"While there are other books on bodybuilding and contest prep out there, this is THE book that covers every topic in complete detail and has become the new standard for the sport. I recommend Bodybuilding not only to all my clients but also to any coach or athlete who wants to take their knowledge to the next level."
John Gorman, Co-owner of Team Gorman, Elite Trainer for 1st Phorm, and Author of Metabolic Capacity and Reverse Dieting
