Self Care isn't optional, it's ESSENTIAL as an athlete/competitor

Competing is hard. It takes alot from us both mentally & physically. We are pushing our minds and bodies to a place where most people won’t ever experience…so it deserves some love and appreciation!

You don’t have to go to the spa every weekend or for expensive massages & beauty treatments, but sometimes the smallest things can feel as just as beneficial. You also don’t have to do everything on this list, but please do make the time to do something for yourself as often as necessary.

Tan

A layer of tan can be a gamechanger, whether you are on prep or in your off season. There’s a reason why we have to be tanned on stage, it highlights your physique & makes it POP. Seriously, if you haven’t tanned, especially during your off season, stop what you are doing & go buy tan NOW….You can thank us later.

Skin care

Speaking of tan, you need to ensure that your skin is looked after. Of course, this is massively important on prep as it is clear on show day who has prepped their skin well and who hasn’t. Although your tan isn’t judged alone, it is a factor that would be considered as a part of the whole package especially when it is close between two competitors. Continuing this skin prep routine into your off season is so beneficial. Your skin changes throughout your competing career due to fluctuating hormones so you should look after it no matter what stage you are in. Keeping up a skin care routine gives you a reason to focus on yourself for 15-20 minutes each week, leaving you feeling refreshed.

Diet

Choosing foods that make you feel good is so important. This means healthy, clean foods that physically make you feel good, but also those treats & meals out that make you feel good mentally or are a part of creating memories etc. Maintaining a healthy relationship with food is so important as a competitor to ensure that you don’t begin to label foods as ‘good or bad’.

Go outside

During prep you make the time to go outside to complete your steps. You get fresh air each day & ensure you are moving enough. This is something you can continue to implement. Okay, your step goal may not be as high, but even a short daily walk will have the desired effect.

Socialise

Whether you are on prep, in the off-season or simply enjoying ‘life-season’, don’t forget to make time to socialise with your loved ones. Whether it be a coffee date, dinner out or a walk to hit your steps. You don’t have to isolate yourself. Remember to nurture your relationships as those are the people who you will be there for you when you need them the most.

Self-care

You can’t pour from an empty cup. Don’t forget to make time for yourself. Whether it be doing your skin care, a weekly face mask, a bath with fancy salts etc. These small acts of self-care can increase feelings of relaxation & lift your mood. You put your body through a lot whilst competing, show it the love and appreciation that it deserves.

Hobbies

Your whole life doesn’t have to revolve around bodybuilding. You don’t have to identify only as a bodybuilder to be considered a serious athlete. Continue practicing your other hobbies and interests. At some point, you will step on stage for the final time. Don’t lose who you are deep down in the process.

What other ways do you implement self-care? Let us know so we can add your ideas to help others along their journey!

As always, if you have any questions please feel free to DM us at @kompakwomen or email us at info@kompak.store