I started my prep at 20 weeks out, and 283lbs. I don't really have a set weight I plan to compete at. I plan on being a super heavy, but won't hold myself to that. I've done shows as a super heavy, but dropped down to heavyweight when I won the Michigan last year. I refuse to sacrifice conditioning for size. But, I don't see myself needing to get down under 225lbs.

My goal was to be around 265lbs at 12 weeks out.
I was 261lbs at 12 weeks out. I'm as lean as I wanted to be, but a few lbs lighter.

I started the prep a little early, because my wife was due with our first child at 12 weeks out. So, I was hoping to be a little ahead of schedule, which I believe I am. As of today, she is 2 days past her due date. So, I'm likely to be side tracked shortly.

I slowly brought myself into full contest prep mode over the first 8 weeks. Now, at 12 weeks out, I'm in full mode.
I diet with a carb cycling approach that has me including high carb days, medium carb days, and low carb days.

Today is a low carb day, so I'm feeling a little tired. Training is going great. I train in a very bodybuilder friendly gym. There are always a few people getting ready for shows, so it helps keep you motivated.

My days are very regimented, and probably boring to most people. I get up, eat, train (I start work at 12:30) work until 9pm, go home, do cardio, and go to bed. I'll hang out with my wife for a little at night of course.

The thing about contest prep that a lot of people don't realize when the do their first show, is that contest prep isn't really an emotionally driven thing. At least I feel it shouldn't be. You can ride an emotional high, and a "can-do attitude" through the final round of a boxing match, or even an hour of morning cardio. But, it isn't going to get you through 4 months of bland food, and no energy. You have to learn to just do what needs to be done, and get on with life. I think that is why a lot of people have a rocky time with their spouses during a diet.

You just have to set the plan in front of you, and do it. Of course you don't want to eat chicken breast and brown rice AGAIN, but you just do it, and move on. You know you've mastered the art, when you're deep into the prep, and your co-workers don't even know you're dieting.

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Justin Harris
www.troponinnutrition.com
Smarter nutrition for harder athletes.