Ready for the financial challenge to competing? For your first competition, whether you choose bodybuilding or figure, there are several things you need to prepare for in this sport - working out, dieting, cardio, etc, etc. However, some forget to account for the time and money it takes to compete on the NPC stage.

Whether you choose bodybuilding, figure or fitness, they are about the same financially within reason ... within reason because in the figure world, you can spend a lot more money than anticipated. Suits and advisors can rack up costs for figure girls.

For a figure competitor, be prepared to spend some dough for your first show. It may be advisable to hire a prep adviser. An advisor can guide you through he myriad of obstacles, help with the diet and training, help with the posing, and most importantly, it will help you to block the unwanted advances of every joe blow that wants to give you advice. You can just tell them that your adviser handles everything for you, thank you very much.

If you go about it on your own, ask and ask questions of respected competitors. Competitors who frequent bodybuilding forums are most likely to offer their assistance through board discussions. They will be able to advise you with some of your preparation and steer you from making some bad mistakes.

Before you step on stage, be aware of the following costs:

Suits (2 used 1 new): $225
Shoes: $30
Entry fees: $40
NPC card: $60
Hotel: $175
Makeup: $50
Hair: $100
Tanning supplies: $25
Tanning: $50
Nails: $20
Monthly grocery bill:$100
Monthly supplement bill: $150 (2lbs of whey each week, glutamine, Vitamins, MRP etc.)

This is a simple example of personal expenses, add $200-$1000 for an adviser if you go that route.