Coach/Trainer

[edenkat]

Does everyone have a coach or a trainer? Do you use them year round or just for prep? How did you find them?

[edenkat]

anyone?

[Claudine]

Hello there!
I have a trainer that I use all year round, otherwise I will because a lazy-coach-potato :)

He has been Sylvia Tremblay's trainer for many years: Christian Maurice.
When I hired him, I assumed (considering the great shape Sylvia has) that he knew his stuff :)

[jewelofnile69]

I cannot really afford one. I've prepped girls for comps before as a trainer/nutritionist so that's how I do my own. In the past I have used both a contest trainer and a nutritionist when I had the funds.

[JDahlum]

Shannon and I use Cam and Tracy Bodner of TotalPackage and we LOVE them. They are handling her prep for Nationals and both of our off-seasons. We will continue to use them year round as long as we can afford to do so. It's really been an eye opening experience working with them. They have gotten Shannon in tremendous shape for her national debut and we are expecting really good things from her.

The best part though......Shannon and I have two new friends! That has been the most surprising for us. We really and truly value their friendship as much as their nutritional / training knowledge. They know their stuff inside and out and they make the process fun which can be hard during prep. I just don't see us not working with them.

I'll have Shannon chime in here as well so she can give her feedback. I highly recommend them!

[dvsness]

Matt Cahill (he posts here as 'Sldge') has more of an advisory role than trainer to me. I have a good grasp of what I need to do and I write my own diets. He has a good eye for when I doubt myself or need someone objective. As for finding him, I recommend local felons. :D

[sdahlum]

Shannon and I use Cam and Tracy Bodner of TotalPackage and we LOVE them. They are handling her prep for Nationals and both of our off-seasons. We will continue to use them year round as long as we can afford to do so. It's really been an eye opening experience working with them. They have gotten Shannon in tremendous shape for her national debut and we are expecting really good things from her.

The best part though......Shannon and I have two new friends! That has been the most surprising for us. We really and truly value their friendship as much as their nutritional / training knowledge. They know their stuff inside and out and they make the process fun which can be hard during prep. I just don't see us not working with them.

I'll have Shannon chime in here as well so she can give her feedback. I highly recommend them!


I could never go back to doing this on my own, after hiring Cam and Tracy. Wow! What a difference! Jamie and I have been working with them since July, and it's definitely worth the expense. I'm amazed with the physique I've been able to achieve with their help. And it's not just diet/training, either . . . Tracy has helped me tremendously with my stage presentation, from posing, to "the walk", to makeup and suit input. I'm SO much more prepared for Nationals that I ever would have been if I was still prepping on my own. I'm able to go into it completely confident with the package I'll be bringing because of them- that's priceless!!

If you have any questions about Cam and Tracy, feel free to PM me.

[Trish]

Matt Cahill (he posts here as 'Sldge') has more of an advisory role than trainer to me. I have a good grasp of what I need to do and I write my own diets. He has a good eye for when I doubt myself or need someone objective. As for finding him, I recommend local felons. :D

:rolf:

[Suzanne]

I now use a trainer year round. I ahd very specific goal to reach.

I have used a few trainers and you really have to know what to look for. Jsut having alot of clients, even alot that do well, does not mean the person really knows about nutrition or long term effects of what is happening to your body. Anyone can starve and cardio someone into contest shape.

What you need to look for is

Nutrition plans are unique to individual clients
There are reasons why you are dong what is asked in your nutrition or training
The person can not only get you to burn fat but can reshape your physique - bring down overpowering parts or bring up lagging parts; bring you to a more balanced shape
Someone who cares about your health and metabolism after the show
Someone who will shoot you straight and not fill you with BS and tell you how great you look
Someone who will tell you not to do a show that you need more time to build or more time to rest or you will not be ready in time
Someone who will not coddle you

I recommend Jeremy Minihan for all the above reasons :)

www.sizeandshapefitness.com

[Erik]

Anyone can starve and cardio someone into contest shape.

Here, here!

[Nadirator]

Hello... You ask a very good question... And now get to ask yourself what you want to accomplish and how you want to go about doing that.

I am a Nutrition Specialist, Naturopathy (very very soon), and Personal Trainer. As such, I have prepped myself AND others for various levels of BB, and Figure competitions as well as biathlon/triathlon/marathons. As a BB, I brought myself back from a 15 year hiatus and did OK. Repeat.. I did OK... However, I had great difficulty being ACCOUNTABLE to MYSELF. I found all kinds of ways to cheat, eat off my program, skip a cardio. etc. I also am NOT a very good Eyes on my OWN Physique. I knew it was time to make a change, but still seemed to find an excuse not to tow the line.

That is when I started looking for a Prep Coach. Again.. I am a nutrition specialist. it was not that I needed more info on how to put my food together.. I needed EYES ON... I needed someone to be ACCOUNTABLE to.. I needed someone who could and would look at me, be honest with me, make changes needed with me... and EXPECT ME TO DELIVER.

I am, and have been working with Team TOTAL PACKAGE... Cameron and Trace Bodner since choosing a coaching team.
I chose them for many reasons:
It was a Husband/Wife team.. for me a Balance of Masculine and Feminine Energy
They are National Level Judges ~ so KNOW what the 'look' is for that Level of competition
The have been on the judging panel for many of my previous shows
They know my Weak Areas and my Strengths
Trace is also a competitor, in her 40's, and also came back from a long hiatus so UNDERSTANDS many of the issues I created for myself
They are HONEST People and stand in INTEGRITY
They allow ME to be a part of my TEAM... They understand all I bring to the Table... and allow me to voice my suggestions, choices, concerns, etc.
They CHALLENGE me to BE MY BEST
I know there is more...


I recall someone telling me.. If you want to move forward... If you want to move up... HIRE A PREP COACH... I listened
This past show Oct 25th, we put my VERY BEST on stage. I also had a photo shoot with BodyPhotage, one I have wanted for years, but never achieved. And I Know, that what we have planned for 2009 and 2010 is gunna blow my OWN socks off..

So the question you get to ask.. WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE.... and HOW DO I WANT TO GO ABOUT DOING THAT..

Best of luck to you. You are welcome to PM me anytime for more info.
have FUN doing your research and making a choice that Celebrates YOU.
~Nadine

[Brandi-]

I like Nadine and Shannon and Jamie have chosen to use Total Package but I use them for a very different set of reasons.

I found myself in a difficult place in my life and Cameron and Tracy have been amazingly understanding and willing to work with my personal weaknesses and struggles. I am a very optimistic person towards others progress but very pessimistic about my own. Without getting into lot of nitty gritty drama I can say they are helping me through and they have given to me more than any trainer could ever be expected to give. :respect:

They are the best!:kiss:

[tennisgalp]

I have worked with a trainer consistently for the past 3 years. I have to echo what Nadine, Brandi and Shannon have said. I worked with Liane Seiwald through six shows and improved alot. I am grateful for the experiences I had and the changes in my physique. I decided to try a new set of "hands" and switched over to Tracy & Cameron Bodner through an entire contest prep and have learned even more about diet and nutrition while getting into the best shape of my life!

I think it's important to find a trainer who has a broad knowledge. I appreciate alot about Tracy and Cameron. First, they are professing Christians and for me, personally, that speaks volumes in regards to their moral character. They are walking encyclopedias about all aspects of training, dieting and competition. I like that they are approachable and accessible when I have questions and they are generous with their time when it comes to training. They have a way of motivating you through their encouragement and attention. It's amazing to watch how they have mastered the art of building relationships with their clients. They have a way of making you feel like you're physique is special and that you're their favorite. (Uh...I AM your favorite, right? :D )

Cam and Trace know that they are successful when their clients are successful. That mindset motivates them to put all of us first in helping us reach our fitness goals. I'm still amazed at how patient, attentive and pro-active they are. If you're looking for a trainer who'll not only bend over backwards to sincerley reach out to you and return a text or email immediately, they're the bomb. :waving:

Cam and Trace...you know where to send the check. :pb:

[Scarl3tbutt3rfly]

I have a local trainer that I have used for the past year. I like having someone that I can physically go see, and get training from, who goes with me to shows and whatnot. And actually as our relationship has developed the whole gym is like a big family that is really supportive of the few of us that do compete there. Which I like alot. She is alot more advisory like dvsness' trainer though, so I come up with my own training and diet for the most part, and gives me guidelines or tells me where I should focus, etc. If I were to go with someone else though, it would most likely be someone like Erik or Noel, who both seem to really know their stuff. If I could afford it, Id probably do a little of both.

[JLB001]

I'm thrown Darrell's name in this mix.

He does contest prep, off season, and just about whatever someone might need.

He's been a trainer for many many years. Has had Natalie Benson go Pro with his guidence, along with guiding several other pros such as Sherry Smith, Carrie Ledford-Bedford to name a few.

He is also a show promoter here in Oklahoma City, this has been a successful Natural and NPC for the past 8 years. The name of the show...NPC Total Package

His website www.darrellterrell.com

If you need to see his work that he has done with me for my first National show please visit my journal here as it does have my beginning pics as well as my 3 day out pics.

[dvsness]

Big news coming tonight. :popcorn:

[Shelly]

mike davies. use him year round for diet, and onseason for workouts.

I love him-

[DanielleA]

Matt Cahill (he posts here as 'Sldge') has more of an advisory role than trainer to me. I have a good grasp of what I need to do and I write my own diets. He has a good eye for when I doubt myself or need someone objective. As for finding him, I recommend local felons. :D

:spit:

[DanielleA]

mike davies. use him year round for diet, and onseason for workouts.

I love him-

I use Mike Davies also, year round for both diet AND workouts. It really helps if you have someone overlooking your entire plan. The diets are tailored to go hand-in-hand with your workouts. This way he can see how many calories you're expending and what works best for you at different stages of your prep.
His cardio programs are great too! Never a dull moment.

[itrain2]

Earlier this year I got started with George Farah, he's AWESOME! I've added tremendous size and still have at least 4 more months of SOLID GROWING to do before I even start the dreaded "D" word and I could not be happier. I say if you can afford it def do a full year's worth because what you do in the off season very important!

[Shelly]

Big news coming tonight. :popcorn:

:popcorn:

[Siouxcountry]

:popcorn:

I'm her new trainer. :spit:

[Rebecca Lynn Slatt]

Originally Posted by Suzanne
Anyone can starve and cardio someone into contest shape

Here, here!

AGREED X10!

[Shelly]

I'm her new trainer. :spit:

:shocked:

































:p

[shell88]

I won a contest prep sponsorship from Total Package and even though I have just started they are awesome!!! Very helpful, understanding, and have given me some great structure! I am sure I will have much more to say later as they continue to train me

[dvsness]

I'm her new trainer. :spit:

:nuts:

[dvsness]

So, after a great run with Matt Cahill (I cannot thank him enough for the time and effort he put into my progress) I felt it was a good time to put this transition from Figure to FBB into the hands of someone who I thought was absolutely incredible. I have great respect for this man's training tactics, dieting results, and have watched in awe of his clients. He is a no-nonsense trainer, and though I knew he would take on one or two new clients this year, I never thought he would actually take on such an insignificant person as me. We spoke about my goals and what would need to be done to achieve them, and he was as frank and candid a person as I, so we should get along magnificently.

Hany Rambod is intelligent, articulate, and a true professional. His current client roster includes Phil Heath, Bill Wilmore, Curtis Bryant and Lee Priest. Clients that turned Pro under Hany's guidance include Leo Ingram, Omar Deckard, Ray Arde and Kristal Richardson. It is an honor to be an athlete under Hany Rambod, particularly since he tends to take clients by referral basis only. This is the beginning of a whole new chapter!

[SBT]

So, after a great run with Matt Cahill (I cannot thank him enough for the time and effort he put into my progress) I felt it was a good time to put this transition from Figure to FBB into the hands of someone who I thought was absolutely incredible. I have great respect for this man's training tactics, dieting results, and have watched in awe of his clients. He is a no-nonsense trainer, and though I knew he would take on one or two new clients this year, I never thought he would actually take on such an insignificant person as me. We spoke about my goals and what would need to be done to achieve them, and he was as frank and candid a person as I, so we should get along magnificently.

Hany Rambod is intelligent, articulate, and a true professional. His current client roster includes Phil Heath, Bill Wilmore, Curtis Bryant and Lee Priest. Clients that turned Pro under Hany's guidance include Leo Ingram, Omar Deckard, Ray Arde and Kristal Richardson. It is an honor to be an athlete under Hany Rambod, particularly since he tends to take clients by referral basis only. This is the beginning of a whole new chapter!

Sounds awesome!!! ;)

Ready to see you on the bb stage!!

[Siouxcountry]

So, after a great run with Matt Cahill (I cannot thank him enough for the time and effort he put into my progress) I felt it was a good time to put this transition from Figure to FBB into the hands of someone who I thought was absolutely incredible. I have great respect for this man's training tactics, dieting results, and have watched in awe of his clients. He is a no-nonsense trainer, and though I knew he would take on one or two new clients this year, I never thought he would actually take on such an insignificant person as me. We spoke about my goals and what would need to be done to achieve them, and he was as frank and candid a person as I, so we should get along magnificently.

Hany Rambod is intelligent, articulate, and a true professional. His current client roster includes Phil Heath, Bill Wilmore, Curtis Bryant and Lee Priest. Clients that turned Pro under Hany's guidance include Leo Ingram, Omar Deckard, Ray Arde and Kristal Richardson. It is an honor to be an athlete under Hany Rambod, particularly since he tends to take clients by referral basis only. This is the beginning of a whole new chapter!

This is great and a big surprise. :)

[Scarl3tbutt3rfly]

So, after a great run with Matt Cahill (I cannot thank him enough for the time and effort he put into my progress) I felt it was a good time to put this transition from Figure to FBB into the hands of someone who I thought was absolutely incredible. I have great respect for this man's training tactics, dieting results, and have watched in awe of his clients. He is a no-nonsense trainer, and though I knew he would take on one or two new clients this year, I never thought he would actually take on such an insignificant person as me. We spoke about my goals and what would need to be done to achieve them, and he was as frank and candid a person as I, so we should get along magnificently.

Hany Rambod is intelligent, articulate, and a true professional. His current client roster includes Phil Heath, Bill Wilmore, Curtis Bryant and Lee Priest. Clients that turned Pro under Hany's guidance include Leo Ingram, Omar Deckard, Ray Arde and Kristal Richardson. It is an honor to be an athlete under Hany Rambod, particularly since he tends to take clients by referral basis only. This is the beginning of a whole new chapter!

Awesome Vanessa!! Im looking forward to seeing you on stage in 2009!! :awesome:

[Suzanne]

Congrats Vanessa

[bree marsh]

So, after a great run with Matt Cahill (I cannot thank him enough for the time and effort he put into my progress) I felt it was a good time to put this transition from Figure to FBB into the hands of someone who I thought was absolutely incredible. I have great respect for this man's training tactics, dieting results, and have watched in awe of his clients. He is a no-nonsense trainer, and though I knew he would take on one or two new clients this year, I never thought he would actually take on such an insignificant person as me. We spoke about my goals and what would need to be done to achieve them, and he was as frank and candid a person as I, so we should get along magnificently.

Hany Rambod is intelligent, articulate, and a true professional. His current client roster includes Phil Heath, Bill Wilmore, Curtis Bryant and Lee Priest. Clients that turned Pro under Hany's guidance include Leo Ingram, Omar Deckard, Ray Arde and Kristal Richardson. It is an honor to be an athlete under Hany Rambod, particularly since he tends to take clients by referral basis only. This is the beginning of a whole new chapter!

radical! is he the one who did that Q and A with kim oddo? he seems very knowledgeable! good luck!

[dvsness]

radical! is he the one who did that Q and A with kim oddo? he seems very knowledgeable! good luck!

Yes.

Thanks, all. I'm excited to see what is in store as of next week! For now, Hany is going to Nats to take care of his clients there.

[Shelly]

So, after a great run with Matt Cahill (I cannot thank him enough for the time and effort he put into my progress) I felt it was a good time to put this transition from Figure to FBB into the hands of someone who I thought was absolutely incredible. I have great respect for this man's training tactics, dieting results, and have watched in awe of his clients. He is a no-nonsense trainer, and though I knew he would take on one or two new clients this year, I never thought he would actually take on such an insignificant person as me. We spoke about my goals and what would need to be done to achieve them, and he was as frank and candid a person as I, so we should get along magnificently.

Hany Rambod is intelligent, articulate, and a true professional. His current client roster includes Phil Heath, Bill Wilmore, Curtis Bryant and Lee Priest. Clients that turned Pro under Hany's guidance include Leo Ingram, Omar Deckard, Ray Arde and Kristal Richardson. It is an honor to be an athlete under Hany Rambod, particularly since he tends to take clients by referral basis only. This is the beginning of a whole new chapter!

awesome girl! one of my friends is trained by him as well!!

Look forward to seeing what you bring in 09! :D

[Siouxcountry]

Yes.

Thanks, all. I'm excited to see what is in store as of next week! For now, Hany is going to Nats to take care of his clients there.

We want to follow your progress champ! :)

[Badgergrl]

Yes.

Thanks, all. I'm excited to see what is in store as of next week! For now, Hany is going to Nats to take care of his clients there.

Sweet! Congrats, Vanessa. Do you have a show picked out for next year yet?

[Badgergrl]

I wish I could afford to work with someone year-round. I might even benefit MORE from having the guidance in the offseason....especially now since I'm having to work around a few injury/health issues.
For me, having a trainer/nutritionist is about keeping me focused. It's so much easier to have someone that you trust just tell you what to do. I get really loopy when I'm close to a contest. :nuts: I like being accountable to someone so I don't start doing anything crazy.

[dvsness]

Sweet! Congrats, Vanessa. Do you have a show picked out for next year yet?

I'm now looking at the Jersey and the Easterns Nov 09. I have a lot of work to do before I am BB ready.

[Badgergrl]

I'm now looking at the Jersey and the Easterns Nov 09. I have a lot of work to do before I am BB ready.

:Dvsness 2: Get to it!

I'm excited to see the bb you.

[MsGuns]

I now use a trainer year round. I ahd very specific goal to reach.

I have used a few trainers and you really have to know what to look for. Jsut having alot of clients, even alot that do well, does not mean the person really knows about nutrition or long term effects of what is happening to your body. Anyone can starve and cardio someone into contest shape.

What you need to look for is

Nutrition plans are unique to individual clients
There are reasons why you are dong what is asked in your nutrition or training
The person can not only get you to burn fat but can reshape your physique - bring down overpowering parts or bring up lagging parts; bring you to a more balanced shape
Someone who cares about your health and metabolism after the show
Someone who will shoot you straight and not fill you with BS and tell you how great you look
Someone who will tell you not to do a show that you need more time to build or more time to rest or you will not be ready in time
Someone who will not coddle you

I recommend Jeremy Minihan for all the above reasons :)

www.sizeandshapefitness.com

I 2nd that...

Ive only used him for 2 months and saw improvements...
I will be using him for offseason and my 2 shows next yr...

[MsGuns]

Hello... You ask a very good question... And now get to ask yourself what you want to accomplish and how you want to go about doing that.

I am a Nutrition Specialist, Naturopathy (very very soon), and Personal Trainer. As such, I have prepped myself AND others for various levels of BB, and Figure competitions as well as biathlon/triathlon/marathons. As a BB, I brought myself back from a 15 year hiatus and did OK. Repeat.. I did OK... However, I had great difficulty being ACCOUNTABLE to MYSELF. I found all kinds of ways to cheat, eat off my program, skip a cardio. etc. I also am NOT a very good Eyes on my OWN Physique. I knew it was time to make a change, but still seemed to find an excuse not to tow the line.

That is when I started looking for a Prep Coach. Again.. I am a nutrition specialist. it was not that I needed more info on how to put my food together.. I needed EYES ON... I needed someone to be ACCOUNTABLE to.. I needed someone who could and would look at me, be honest with me, make changes needed with me... and EXPECT ME TO DELIVER.

I am, and have been working with Team TOTAL PACKAGE... Cameron and Trace Bodner since choosing a coaching team.
I chose them for many reasons:
It was a Husband/Wife team.. for me a Balance of Masculine and Feminine Energy
They are National Level Judges ~ so KNOW what the 'look' is for that Level of competition
The have been on the judging panel for many of my previous shows
They know my Weak Areas and my Strengths
Trace is also a competitor, in her 40's, and also came back from a long hiatus so UNDERSTANDS many of the issues I created for myself
They are HONEST People and stand in INTEGRITY
They allow ME to be a part of my TEAM... They understand all I bring to the Table... and allow me to voice my suggestions, choices, concerns, etc.
They CHALLENGE me to BE MY BEST
I know there is more...


I recall someone telling me.. If you want to move forward... If you want to move up... HIRE A PREP COACH... I listened
This past show Oct 25th, we put my VERY BEST on stage. I also had a photo shoot with BodyPhotage, one I have wanted for years, but never achieved. And I Know, that what we have planned for 2009 and 2010 is gunna blow my OWN socks off..

So the question you get to ask.. WHAT DO I WANT TO ACHIEVE.... and HOW DO I WANT TO GO ABOUT DOING THAT..

Best of luck to you. You are welcome to PM me anytime for more info.
have FUN doing your research and making a choice that Celebrates YOU.
~Nadine

Great plug!!!

[Lisa Miles]

I've trained with Mike Davies for 6 years. my husband does too. I learned alot from Mike about diet ,posing,training but also the industry. He has been a good friend to both of us and we would never look elsewhere. it helps that we live in Columbus and are able to train with Mike 5 days a week. We go to him year round.:)

[Shelly]

I've trained with Mike Davies for 6 years. my husband does too. I learned alot from Mike about diet ,posing,training but also the industry. He has been a good friend to both of us and we would never look elsewhere. it helps that we live in Columbus and are able to train with Mike 5 days a week. We go to him year round.:)

hey Lis:

you are lucky that you live out there- we get out there once or twice a year but every time we do, i learn so much!

[Bwhite25]

UniquePhysique.com AMAZING GUYS!

[ChelseaAlexis]

This will be my first year competing. I am trying so hard to decide on a trainer. I want to have made my decision by the end of the week. I have been doing hours of research and just cant make a decision. It seems that there are so many great trainers out there.

Anyone got any advice?

I have looked into Mike Davies, Kim Oddo, Tracy and Cameron (Total Package), Cathy Savage, and quite a few others. I just cant decide who would be best for me.

[Gin]

This will be my first year competing. I am trying so hard to decide on a trainer. I want to have made my decision by the end of the week. I have been doing hours of research and just cant make a decision. It seems that there are so many great trainers out there.

Anyone got any advice?

I have looked into Mike Davies, Kim Oddo, Tracy and Cameron (Total Package), Cathy Savage, and quite a few others. I just cant decide who would be best for me.

John and Roxana Kreklo with On Stage Image Services! http://onstageimage.net/home.html

This is my first season training with them and I am seriously impressed! The level of individual attention is incredible. My program is specifically tailored to MY needs. John has spent a great deal of time creating solutions for my training that take into consideration injuries and are making some dramatic improvements in lagging areas in my physique. My program is challenging and unique. I have a high level of trust in John and Rox and am really happy with the open communication we have on where I've been, where we're at, and where we're going. One thing I love about working with them is their genuine concern and care for the athletes they train. They have my highest recommendation!

[Suzanne]

This will be my first year competing. I am trying so hard to decide on a trainer. I want to have made my decision by the end of the week. I have been doing hours of research and just cant make a decision. It seems that there are so many great trainers out there.

Anyone got any advice?

I have looked into Mike Davies, Kim Oddo, Tracy and Cameron (Total Package), Cathy Savage, and quite a few others. I just cant decide who would be best for me.

from the list i would recommend tracy and Cameron

not on the list Jeremy Minihan www.sizeandshapefitness.com :D

[MsGuns]

from the list i would recommend tracy and Cameron

not on the list Jeremy Minihan www.sizeandshapefitness.com :D

I 2nd Tracy and Cam and Jeremy...

[ChelseaAlexis]

Right now I am torn between Mike Davies and Total Package (Tracy and Cameron). Anyone have any pros/cons about either?

I've heard a lot of good things about both. But no one seems willing to share any negative experiences. Maybe they are both just simply amazing. I dunno. But I'm going crazy doing research and trying to decide. :headache:

Help?

[MsGuns]

Right now I am torn between Mike Davies and Total Package (Tracy and Cameron). Anyone have any pros/cons about either?

I've heard a lot of good things about both. But no one seems willing to share any negative experiences. Maybe they are both just simply amazing. I dunno. But I'm going crazy doing research and trying to decide. :headache:

Help?

I havent heard anything bad about them either...Im w/ Tracy and Cam on another msg board and they are very nice and helpful.

Have you asked yourself this? Can you go visit them once a month or every other month?

I live in Houston and for the 1st time I am training w/ someone (2nd trainer in 5 yrs) not in Houston or Tx.

[HollySchrader]

Davies does my prep, he's brutally honest- I guess that can be a pro and a con, I think its funny, it helps so much though. I feel like I went from a frog to a butterfly, I can pose and my body has changed. It really helps living close though...

[ChelseaAlexis]

If I get a trainer that does most of the stuff via internet (like Mike or Total Package) will I need to fly in to see them once a month? Neither of them said anything about that to me in the info they sent.

[MsGuns]

If I get a trainer that does most of the stuff via internet (like Mike or Total Package) will I need to fly in to see them once a month? Neither of them said anything about that to me in the info they sent.

Just for a better understanding and a closer eye...maybe not every month.

[Bronwyn]

Does everyone have a coach or a trainer? Do you use them year round or just for prep? How did you find them?

Well I am from Eastern Europe and the whole system here is very different. Coaches in gyms you may hire are NOT able to prepare a competitor (or only a minority of them).

Competitors here learns from other competitors. Well known coaches here are usually NOT coaches only as a main job, but owners of nutrition firms and gyms - so preparing a competitor is a kind of promotion for them. Some of them took money but a lot of them trains you for free - but you have to train in their gym or promote their supplements and buy it from them. So it is payed, but not directly.

National team is the national proudness = so the TOP competitors have regullar check ins by national team headcoach and few meetings during the year. Before the international event national team is in the camp, where they have medical care, massages, fitcentre, cooked meals and also revision from national head coach and his/hers co-coaches (usually 3 people for national team)....... But that are only the selected ones.

For newbie it is very heavy to get a coach here. Usually only consultations are available. You as a competitor have to study a lot and ask. Consultations are regullary or not regullary...... I had no coach for first 2 years - only talked with other competitors and read a lot of books about this sport. Than I got into national team, I was on two camps where I learned a lot. But here I also saw that some competitors gets more patience than others. I was not selected.... I continued in consultations with national team headcoach irregullary. But I still competed on my own. Than I was in the gym of one off our IFBB Pro competitors. But we did not fit each other, so I went away and again I had no coach for many years.

In 2004 I was in the gym of our top Fitness competitor and he helped me as a nutritionist mainly to get back. This was payed (about 50USD/month).... but when he saw I am looking great he trained me two months for free - but I had to let him pictures of me before and after for comerciall advertisments and promote him.

In 2005-2007 I was alone again - and because I moved I had to find a new gym again.... and I met former national head coach after years. I consulted with him again. I took my supplements from him... but I was not competed for him (here when somebody really coach you, on the competitions is usually announced your name, name of the club and coach who trains you. I competed on my own all the time).

In 2007 I crossed federations and prepared on my own. But I was desperate as my metabolism was damaged. So I asked for a help one well known coach, who is probbably Nr.1 here. We only consulted as I knew he has a lot of better competitors to train. But from Universe he started to train me really. First time the cooperation in regullary based. We have phone calls, I send him pictures regullary, he change my diet and trainings, write me supplement plans, tells me what to do with regeneration, helps me when I am ill - never nobody did so much for me. Plus he is FIRST coach I met who does no difference between TOP and not top competitors. I have simply no feeling that I am Nr. 2 in his group. Hope I will have the honor to compete in his name. :respect:

[Suzanne]

If I get a trainer that does most of the stuff via internet (like Mike or Total Package) will I need to fly in to see them once a month? Neither of them said anything about that to me in the info they sent.

it is not necessary but i do fly in to see my trainer to get my butt kicked

[DJudy]

I've been with Mike for 6 years .... I think he's the greatest. One of the best things about him (next to his expertise) he's affordable. I travel to see him 2-3 times a year. My choice... I like getting my butt kicked!:respect:

[Shelly]

Right now I am torn between Mike Davies and Total Package (Tracy and Cameron). Anyone have any pros/cons about either?

I've heard a lot of good things about both. But no one seems willing to share any negative experiences. Maybe they are both just simply amazing. I dunno. But I'm going crazy doing research and trying to decide. :headache:

Help?

They are 3 of my fav people... so id bet either way you went, youd be happy:D

[Shelly]

I've been with Mike for 6 years .... I think he's the greatest. One of the best things about him (next to his expertise) he's affordable. I travel to see him 2-3 times a year. My choice... I like getting my butt kicked!:respect:

ditto Deb- love mike- F the haterzzz!:awesome::awesome:

[DJudy]

ditto Deb- love mike- F the haterzzz!:awesome::awesome:

You always know how to make me laugh :kiss::rolf:

[lexi]

mike davies - love him. I have used him year round for a full year and a 1/2 and have seen tremendous results, and gained substantial knowledge. For a nationwide trainer I always amazed at how quickly he always gets back to his clients.

[DJudy]

mike davies - love him. I have used him year round for a full year and a 1/2 and have seen tremendous results, and gained substantial knowledge. For a nationwide trainer I always amazed at how quickly he always gets back to his clients.

I just finished a boot camp weekend at his house. I love it ...there are always so many Top Level Pro and National competitors there and they all work their butts off. Every time I go, I leave feeling stronger and healthier both physically and mentally. The man is amazing!:respect:

[Shelly]

I just finished a boot camp weekend at his house. I love it ...there are always so many Top Level Pro and National competitors there and they all work their butts off. Every time I go, I leave feeling stronger and healthier both physically and mentally. The man is amazing!:respect:

cant wait to hear about the weekend:kiss:

[wildcat22]

I get my self ready with two kids one in collage and 12 year old I just dont have the extra money. I feel I do ok with the training but I would love some diet help!! wishful thinking

[pitmommy]

Me too, I go to college , have four kids but this is not a reason for not having a trainer. I dont want a trainer. My Husband is pretty experienced and I trust him. I like my diet and my training is off the hook . I think my Contest prep is a matter of experience and learning what my body will respond too , this is fun .Each time I improve on something. One day all it will come together, I will look like TRACY MASON !! ( ur beautiful girl ) :). Let me add that my journals are my trainers and I write every detail that I can .

[Ali]

Does everyone have a coach or a trainer? Do you use them year round or just for prep? How did you find them?

I have done both, but I just wanted to chime in here as someone that is doing it themselves. It is part of my motivation and great fun to be able to do it completely on my own. Very empowering. Having a coach can be fun, too. Just know that you don't HAVE to. :awesome:

[Lynx]

I've always done my own prep. I often get advice from my boyfriend when I don't think I'm being objective.

[pitmommy]

I've always done my own prep. I often get advice from my boyfriend when I don't think I'm being objective.


Well your doing a great job !!!!!! :awesome:

[DJudy]

I get my self ready with two kids one in collage and 12 year old I just dont have the extra money. I feel I do ok with the training but I would love some diet help!! wishful thinking


This is one of the things I love about Mike Davies, you cand do just diet, or diet and training and he is extremely affordable.

[Bronwyn]

I get my self ready with two kids one in collage and 12 year old I just dont have the extra money. I feel I do ok with the training but I would love some diet help!! wishful thinking

I dont think you need more advices in the diet. You looks great! Lean and hard!

[wilson6]

Kerry Lind has been working with Ms Wilson on her diet. I UW weighed her yesterday w/measured RV and she was 8.6% BF at 160.5 lbs, 5'4". Her strength and energy has been fine thus far and about 7 weeks till the Arnold.

He's doing a diet for another male client of mine, I have to fine tune it for the workouts, but working thus far.

Not sure what he charges, but it isn't a cookie cutter, basic questionnaire type, send me cash, type diet.

W6

[ChelseaAlexis]

I ordered my training/nutrition program with Mike Davies on Monday. I am really looking forward to getting it. :-) And I'm very glad that I'm done with the research for trainers. Haha. I was getting a headache.

[pitmommy]

I have done both, but I just wanted to chime in here as someone that is doing it themselves. It is part of my motivation and great fun to be able to do it completely on my own. Very empowering. Having a coach can be fun, too. Just know that you don't HAVE to. :awesome:


Ali , this is just how I feel . very empowering:D

[wilson6]

It is part of my motivation and great fun to be able to do it completely on my own. Very empowering.

Beyond empowering, it is knowledge. Too many competitors simply do as they are told, sure it works, but why, and is it the best for you. Unless you have a basic understanding of your own body and responses to diet and exercise, in my opinion, you'll never be the best you can be. No one can be you, or make the best decision at a given moment relative to what fine tuning you should be doing (training, cardio and diet).

I told a client who is using a diet consultant I recommended to add some carbs if she felt she needed them prior to or after the workout, this person's diet is pretty tight, anyway she just looked at me and asked, "how will I know? I've always just done as I was told so I don't know if doing something different will help me." I wanted to hit my head against the wall.

Without knowledge, and the continuing quest to increase your knowledge in this business, you're bait on the end of a hook.

W6

[Making_A_Change]

I have done both, but I just wanted to chime in here as someone that is doing it themselves. It is part of my motivation and great fun to be able to do it completely on my own. Very empowering. Having a coach can be fun, too. Just know that you don't HAVE to. :awesome:

I loved reading this! I have a trainer and we are learning together. I did my own diet, learned about carb cycling, and frequent figure sites. It is great fun. And in the end, I like the idea that I can do it on my own and should I work someone else in the future, I will have alot of information to share about what works for me and that I can pass along to someone else.

[JISFIT]

F the haterzzz!

Huh :eek:?????? Was that response a result of someone having a different opinion? Just Curious :confused:

[Visionquester]

I don't use a trainer.
:awesome:

~C.