I have had the honor of being involved with Men’s Physique since it started which has allowed me to see the already many changes in this still very new division and one thing that has held true since the start is that your poise and presentation are a HUGE determination in your final outcome. What many who don’t actively compete and/or attend many competitions don’t realize from simply looking at pictures and placings is that the Division of Men’s Physique is a VERY dynamic place and when it all comes down to having so many phenomenal looking competitors on stage. One of the largest things that makes one person stand out from another isn’t their arms, it isn’t their abs, it isn’t even the hair… It is that poise and presence that you just can’t put your finger on, that “Swag Factor!” When I say “Swag Factor” I am talking about the quality to walk onto stage and just grab peoples eye and make them look at you, this is in a lot of the unseen, non-verbal cues and a big part of it comes from confidence and truly having a great time! We all know someone who can just walk into a room and right from the start has that positive vibe that everyone wants to be around, well that right there is all part of the Swag Factor! Remember that on many of the State Level and for sure the National Level Shows all across the country that EVERYONE has worked hard and looks great and the best way to set yourself apart is to just have a great time and enjoy the stage, it is your time to celebrate!
I have noticed this same trend with many competitors backstage, the ones having fun backstage, laughing, smiling, talking, taking pictures, etc… are also some of the ones that are placing well and I can tell you that it really does show that just having a blast is the best and most positive strategy to have! Sure, there is a point where you need to zone in and focus, but that certainly doesn’t include being arrogant or rude to your fellow competitors, the backstage help/crew, judges, fans, or your family. Think of it as showing good Sportsmanship, there isn’t a sport around where Unsportsmanlike Conduct is tolerated and Men’s Physique is no different. I remember growing up and all my years of playing sports that one of the most valuable lessons I was taught was to always be humble and respectful in victory and defeat, I will always pass this message on! A True Warrior respects and appreciates his fellow combatant, because the greatest thing is to find a worthy opponent, and I mean worthy on all levels; Mental, Physical, and Emotional! We all know that it is far more than just casually lifting things up and putting them down :)
As you are preparing to compete next, remember that in this sport the work and real test is in the day to day; the effort you put in, the attitude you bring, the way you shape yourself, the people you inspire, and the example you set! So, as you take the stage you should already know that you have won and by winning I certainly don’t mean a trophy, because First or Last what you have done and the person you are cannot truly be judged in a matter of minutes on stage. Things don’t create our emotions; we create our emotions by our responses to things and no matter what we CAN choose to have an amazing time, because the Stage is the time to CELEBRATE!
"Given enough time, any man may master the physical. With enough knowledge, any man may become wise. It is the true warrior who can master both... and surpass the result."
-Tien T'ai-
Thank You to ALL who take the time to read My Words, if they are able to help just one person, then I am that much closer to My Goal!
By Derek M. Trombetta
-Stay Strong; It’s more than Physical-
Derek is a Professional Firefighter, Fitness Coach, and MAN Sports™ Sponsored Physique Athlete with a Lifetime of REAL WORLD Experience in the Fitness Industry! For further information you can contact Derek at:
970Muscle Website
http://www.970Muscle.com
970Muscle facebook Page
http://www.facebook.com/970Muscle
M.A.N. Sports™ Website
http://www.ManSports.com/Derek-Trombetta
www.MensPhysique.com
http://www.rxmuscle.com/Derek-Trombetta.html
Subscribe to RxMuscle on Youtube