Hey Everyone,

First I would like to start by saying that this is my first competition and I know that I am not going to win but I would like to look and feel the best that I possibly can. With saying that I have a problem, I am only 5 days out from my show and my legs are still holding quite a bit of fat-or at least I think they look like it. I really was hoping for them to tighten up and I know that it takes time and everyone says everything will come together in the last week. My question is, When I cut water, and sodium and begin with the potassium will it really make that big of a difference? Will this take care of the lack of tone or the loseness in my legs? Is this something that I can do anything about at this point or should I just let it go and not stress over it. My boyfriend is about to kill me b/c I am driving him nutts over this so I thought I would turn to you guys. Any advice/opinions would be greatly appreciated and at least help to ease my mind. THANKS SO MUCH!!!

jess-

I'm not the expert around here but I can give you my personal opinion. At this point, don't stress yourself out or try anything drastic to bring your legs up(take it from me!). Especially since this is your first show, just look back and learn from your preparation for this show to make adjustments to your plan the next time around. This isn't the most exciting thing you want to hear, I'm sure, but for all you know, your legs will look great on their own come Saturday.

On to another thing...looking and FEELING your best! I hate to be the one to interfere with your final week plan, but I would advise against potassium loading and even cutting water very much. Immediately after your show, theres a decent chance that you will look AND feel aweful if you do a combination of these things. There are plenty of safer, more comfortable ways to carry out the final week, and you can still come in looking just as good on the day of the contest and alot better after the contest. If nothing else, atleast talk to whomever helps you(if anyone) with your diet and ask if they might consider alternative methods during your final week.

Most importantly, congratulations on doing your first show!!!

first of all try to change our attitude about " KNOWING" that youre not going to win. dont worry so much and just do your best with what you have, especially since it is your first show. remember youre body has probably never been taken to this level of stress and it may be reacting against it. i always unconsciously take in too much sodium and my body LOves to hold water , Especially on my quads. if you are doing the kentucky muscle show in louisville there is a chance I will see you down there.

good luck

Thanks so much guys. I am really excited about this show and I am going to do the Northern in March. I have taken this as a great learning experience although it has been very stessful. I just didnt want to look out of place! Joe, I hope to see you there, I'll be in the tall class. Wish me luck!

jesse-j-

I'm a new member and just read your message. How did your show day go? I'm preparing for my first show as well and have similar issues with my legs.

1st i do not think you should cut water especially being natural, there should be sodium in your diet to support the flow of carbs into your muscles in the last week, and it should not be cut either, of either of these are cut too dramatically, then the release of ADH will help to hold onto more water.

And usually the legs do not hold water like that unless you are making crazy changes in your diet, it's most likely just a bit more bodyfat that needs to come off.

stay off your legs the last week of the show. your legs are holding water from you doing cardio, weights, always being on your legs. Stay off them, let your diet do the work, put your feet up to let the blood, water and nutrients stop the "swelling" of your legs. I have the same problem as well. I didnt believe this until my trainer helped me years ago.