Jet Set: Competitor Style

-

While it is nice to stay local and cut down on expenses to compete.  Once you get to a point whether to do nationals or even pro shows; it is likely you will be jet set.  Here are a few things to help pack your bags and ensure a stress-free journey.


What's food got to do with it?
It surprises me how many competitors show up with no meals.  Seems almost crazy yet it happens.  Packing meals is easier than before with Meal Management bags like 6 Pack Bags.  If you insist on not taking meals, have them delivered to your hotel from a Meal Prep Company or locate your nearest grocery store for any odds and ends you may need.
  • Pre-measure your meals a day or two before you leave.
  • Press all the air out of the bags.
  • Pack extra meals for post show or any other bulk items.
  • Three ounce liquid rule applies to any condiments, PB, almond butters, honey, etc. you may want to take.  The individual packets a perfect for your carry on.
  • Your ice pack must be 100% frozen upon security check and gel based.  Otherwise bye-bye ice packs!  I pack these as I am leaving the house.  If you live too far away to ensure they stay frozen, freeze your meals ahead of time.
Does it suit you?
I have seen connectors break, threads come undone, and travel bags misplaced.
  • Carry your stage day must haves in your carry on.  Suit, shoes, jewelry, and make-up.
  • Bring extra connectors.
  • Pack an extra suit or two.  If you get that Pro Card, a photo shoot usually follows.
  • Pack a small sewing kit.  Even if you do not sew, chances are someone else does and can help.
  • Pack an extra set of heels.
Pumped Up?
I always suggest bringing a set of bands.  While the pump up room usually provides some 'pump' items, keep in mind hundreds of other competitors will also be pumping up.

  • Serious Steel has a great travel set with pouch for under $20.  These are a staple in my gym bag and traveling.
Where Are Your Manners?
Promoters of shows usually put a clause on their entry forms and instruction packet in regards to hotel etiquette; but let's go over some of the things to remember.

  • Pack your own towel and sheets.  The tan will stain and ruin the nice white linens and the hotel WILL charge you for it.  I do not bring a whole set just the fitted sheet.
  • If your hotel does not offer individual mini fridges or microwaves in room, chances are they have set up a 24 hour space where you can store your meals as well as heat them up.  Be sure to label or mark your food!
  • If you happen to have a room mate, get their schedule.  It helps to get on the same page and avoid a 4am surprise when your roomie is set for tanning and make-up.

Prepare to travel for a competition with a little less stress by bringing your food, making sure you have your stage ready items on hand, and being mindful of the host hotel's policies.  Most of all have fun!

I would love to hear about your travel tips and tricks.  What do you know now that you wish you then when traveling for a competition?


Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

5 Fun Facts About Ms. Olympia Bikini: Ashley Kaltwasser-

-
Image
As a competitor, we all start from somewhere.  There are a very few genetic freaks that enter the sport waking up as Olympia material.  Ashley Kaltwasser is no stranger to starting from the bottom and working her butt on to make it to the top.  This two time Olympia winner has worked hard to get where she is today.  Here are five fun facts that you may not know: She started off as a blonde.  Say what?  Yes, this now stunning brunette was a bleach blonde for her first few shows.      2.  She didn't place at her first national show, the 2011 IFBB North Americans.  The same show IFBB Pro Crystal Matthews received her pro card.     3.  It took her almost another year and a half from start to get her pro card at the 2012 Team Universe where she also took Overall.  Her and IFBB Pro Bianca Berry competed in the same class and just barely beat the now IFBB Pro Cortney King.   4.  S...
Read more

2011 NPC JR NATIONALS: MissFits & Mayhem Give It Their All

-
Image
Hundreds of competitors flock to Chicago, Illinois for the 2011 NPC Junior Nationals Competition [about 30 of those competitors from Colorado].  When first getting the skinny on what was going on, only about 4-6 competitors from Colorado were called out for Top 10.  This is a huge feat as Erica Cobb pointed out "the competition is STIFF".  Erica competed in Bikini Class D with her team mates Jesse Lehman who competed Physique Class A and Lana Hofman who competed Figure Class E.  Though none of them earned their Pro Cards, they will make a comeback at the USAs in July. 10th Place Bikini Class D 7th Place Figure Class E 4th Place Physique Class A Congratulations MissFits & Mayhem on a beautiful performance.  You all worked very hard and know exactly what needs to be done to blow them out of the water in July. **Other Top 10 Colorado competitors included Alex Carneiro, his wife Katherine, and Christina Hefner
Read more

Say A Little Prayer For Me

-
Image
It was a busy day for The Gym as it began well before sunrise.  Lana Hofman, Erica Cobb, and Jesse Lehmen head to Chicago, IL with their coach, Chris Williamson, and The Gym support team to compete at NPC Junior Nationals.  Upon sending them off, Erica met me with a gleam in her eye and a huge smile.  "I just want Saturday to get here.  I'm feeling really good."  It was refreshing to see how pumped she was. What most people do not understand is this show is a qualifier for your Pro Card and by two weeks out; your body and mind are usually fighting themselves.  They ache, feel sick, mentally & physcially are drained, and sometimes fight to keep motivated.  It takes a lot for these competitors to compete let alone compete nationally.  I commend these athletes for their time commitment, their motivation even if they have a few doubts, and their willingness to be vulnerable in front of thousands of people.  They are some...
Read more