The Week Leading to 10X Naturals
The 14th week is here (peak week). Before diving into my peak week outline, I must mention that these past several weeks have been remarkably challenging. But one of the primary established benefits of this prep was discipline. This applies to multiple areas of my life, but I have managed to program myself to be on prep, complete my studies, re-engage in my spiritual life, and work on my business. I learned many things that needed attention. Things that I viewed and used negatively. Again, this prep taught me many things about myself (physical, financial, mental, emotional, and spiritual), but as I am less than six days out to 10X Naturals, I feel more prepared than my first show. Additionally, with the implementations I will use during peak week, I can only hope things will go according to plan.
During my first prep, especially during peak week, I didn't carb load, drink sufficient water, and I wasn't fully in my best physical shape. While reflecting on my past peak week mistakes, I decided to not let history repeat itself. This means I got myself into shape (no mess-ups or cheat days), drank 1-2 gallons daily, and will carb load for three days (2 days before show day). I researched many methods regarding peak week, but just like fitness, there isn't a "perfect" protocol. Many pros and researchers declare this statement. However, many pros encourage competitors to carb load and drink sufficient water since our bodies hold a lot of water. Once again, I didn't follow these steps during my appearance at the 2023 E Cup.
Concerning my approach to carb-loading, I will stick to the same grams/calories when I perform my 2-3 week refeed days. This will allow me the energy I need during show day and allow my body to fill up. I won't be taking any special pills or diuretics. I did this last time and had a flat appearance. I don't know what the results will be without using diuretics, but hopefully, the aftermath will be better. My water intake will remain the same. 1-2 gallons per day, but when I am 16-24 hours away from the show, I will stop consuming water and sodium. I will have a 32oz container of water set aside for sips, but I will have to stretch it until the event is entirely over. I will, however, reintroduce sodium on Saturday morning. The objective is to have a dry appearance but still fill.
My meals will remain the same. I won't be changing or implementing other foods. I heard from many pros that this would not be a wise approach. I won't take my chances. This may look "too risky" to some, but the research continues to declare these methods. If the results aren't the best, that is ok. All this is still a learning journey. Failure is the path to development and success. Since the hard work has already been completed, my training won't be as intense as before. This means I won't strive to personal records or attempt to perform them. I have been depleting myself for four months. There is no need to kill myself during peak week. Attempting to do this will negatively impact my energy and performance during show day. Since I have a solo presentation (Men's Classic), I want to have enough energy to give the crowd an amazing performance/presentation.
Now, after finals, I WILL eat. I don't know what I'm going to eat, but I know it won't be chicken, potatoes, and vegetables (salad and asparagus). Most likely pizza, brownies, donuts, fries, or a delicious bacon cheeseburger. Believe me, I have been craving some of these meals for the past four months, but Saturday will be the day when I can finally indulge before entering a reverse diet. I want to say thank you for your support. Many people encouraged me to stick to this goal when I wanted to give in, but their words kept me going a little further.
It doesn't matter if I come back home with a medal or trophy. Winning is not about getting a medal or trophy on show day. Being on stage already makes me a winner. With that alone, I am a champion. Once again, thank you for your support.
*P.S. If you want the entire outline of my prep (training, diet outline, supplements, and other essential tools I've used during my 10X Naturals prep, you can purchase the Classic Physique Program. This 12-month program gives you everything to have a physique that is healthy, powerful, and classical. What are you waiting for? Get it now!
