The Beyond Condition Podcast

Sarah Parker

Are you ready to explore the unspoken truths of bodybuilding?

Welcome to The Beyond Condition Podcast. I’m your host, Sarah Parker, and I’m thrilled to have you here.

Honest Insights Weekly

Each week, I offer my loyal listeners authentic perspectives from the bodybuilding realm. With over 13 years of competitive experience, my aim is to provide you with invaluable education based on my journey.

Expert Guests

As a coach with global connections within the industry, I bring a diverse array of guests who illuminate the genuine realities of bodybuilding. Every episode delves into various aspects of bodybuilding, revealing more than just the surface-level highlights.

Beyond ‘Condition’

Bodybuilding encompasses much more than enhancing your appearance. By tuning in, you'll uncover new knowledge and actionable advice that can propel your growth in all facets of life.

Ultimately, my mission is to help you determine if this path is right for you while ensuring your voice is heard.

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33 episodes
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Avg 54 min
English

Episodes 33

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Wednesday · 25 min
When Social Media Validation Takes Over: Breaking the Cycle of Likes, Growth & Burnout
Send us Fan Mail What happens when social media growth starts to control your mental health, relationships, and everyday life? In this episode, Sarah Parker opens up about her experience of rapidly growing on social media and the unexpected pressure that came with it. After one video about pain in the female bodybuilding industry helped her audience grow from around 4,000 to nearly 6,000 followers, the excitement of engagement quickly became a cycle of checking likes, chasing validation, and worrying about performance. Sarah shares how constantly monitoring notifications, deleting posts that didn't meet her expectations, and prioritising content creation began affecting her mental wellbeing and her relationship with her partner, Matt. She also explains the changes she made to regain control - from creating a structured content schedule and setting boundaries around her phone, to learning to detach from engagement metrics and focus on the real people behind the numbers. This is an honest conversation about social media, validation, burnout, relationships, boundaries, and finding a healthier balance between online growth and real life. Key topics include: The addictive cycle of likes and notifications How rapid social-media growth can create unexpected pressure The impact of content creation on relationships Setting boundaries with your phone and social media Learning to detach from engagement metrics Building a healthier and more intentional content strategy Why quality of connection matters more than follower numbers Protecting your mental, physical, and relationship health Sometimes, the most important metric isn't how many people liked your post — it's whether you're still present for the people who matter most. Watch it here: https://youtu.be/sg72gh14shs 🎙️ Beyond Condition brings you conversations with athletes, coaches, judges, researchers and industry experts exploring bodybuilding, performance, mindset, health and everything beyond the stage. If this conversation resonates with you, subscribe to Beyond Condition, share the episode with a fellow athlete or coach, and let us know your thoughts in the comments. Find Sarah on Instagram: @sarahparker_bb THE ULTIMATE SHOW DAY GUIDE E-BOOK: Purchase here Beyond Condition Coaching Application: Click here
S5 · E90
Sunday · 59 min
Built Different: Neurodivergence, Bodybuilding & High Achievement | Dr. Lisa Lewis | Bodybuilding Uncovered Ep. 18
Send us Fan Mail What happens when the very traits that can drive someone to elite performance also make it difficult to switch off, recover, and find purpose outside the goal? In this episode, we explore the fascinating intersection of neurodivergence and competitive bodybuilding, looking at how ADHD, autism, dyslexia, OCD tendencies, hyperfocus, intensity, and a strong need for structure can influence both athletic performance and everyday life. For many high achievers, the rigid routines of bodybuilding - precise nutrition, structured training, repetition, and an unwavering focus on a goal - can provide an environment where neurodivergent traits become genuine strengths. Hyperfocus can create incredible levels of commitment, while intensity and a preference for independent pursuits can help athletes thrive in the demanding world of competitive sport. But what happens when the competition ends? We dive into the "reward gap" of the off-season, where the dopamine and purpose associated with chasing a stage goal suddenly disappear. For some athletes, the transition from extreme focus and intensity to rest can create a profound sense of emptiness, emotional volatility, or loss of purpose. We discuss the difference between productive intensity, burnout, and unsustainable cycles of pushing harder and harder. The conversation also explores how coaches can support neurodivergent high achievers - including reframing recovery as something to actively pursue, recognising when an athlete needs more challenge versus when their real "growing edge" is learning to back off, and helping them build mental flexibility alongside physical performance. Along the way, personal experiences with dyslexia and ADHD highlight an important message: a brain that works differently isn't necessarily a problem to fix. The right environment can turn perceived weaknesses into strengths. Ultimately, this episode asks a bigger question: Are we creating a life and an environment that works with our brain, rather than constantly asking our brain to work against itself? A conversation about neurodivergence, high achievement, bodybuilding, mental flexibility, recovery, coaching, burnout, and finding fulfilment beyond the pursuit of performance. Find Lisa on Instagram @drlewisconsulting Watch the episode here: https://youtu.be/-yXVqBAd408 🎙️ Beyond Condition brings you conversations with athletes, coaches, judges, researchers and industry experts exploring bodybuilding, performance, mindset, health and everything beyond the stage. If this conversation resonates with you, subscribe to Beyond Condition, share the episode with a fellow athlete or coach, and let us know your thoughts in the comments. Find Sarah on Instagram: @sarahparker_bb THE ULTIMATE SHOW DAY GUIDE E-BOOK: Purchase here Beyond Condition Coaching Application: Click here
S5 · E89
September 30 · 1 hr 16 min
The Bodybuilding Mindset: Reframing Competition Prep, Recovery, Growth & Relationships
Send us Fan Mail Sarah Parker explores the critical role of mental framing throughout the different phases of bodybuilding, from competition prep and post-show recovery to the off-season. The central message is that how athletes frame the challenges of bodybuilding can have a significant impact on both long-term physique development and mental wellbeing. Rather than viewing fatigue, hunger, dietary discipline, and the demands of preparation as suffering, Sarah encourages athletes to recognise competitive bodybuilding as a chosen pursuit and approach its challenges with gratitude and perspective. She also discusses the dangers of negative self-talk and constant complaining, which can contribute to a cycle of missed training, dietary deviations, and difficulty following a coach's plan. The discussion also addresses the psychological challenges of the reverse-out and post-show period, highlighting the importance of focusing on recovery and health rather than viewing the end of a competition as permission to eat without restriction. Honest communication with coaches about hunger, body image, and the desire to remain lean can help athletes navigate this vulnerable stage more effectively. For the off-season, Sarah reframes gaining body fat as a necessary part of creating the conditions for quality muscle growth, rather than viewing it as a period without purpose. She also explores body image, patience, and the importance of maintaining urgency and structure between competitions. Beyond individual mindset, Sarah discusses the importance of healthy relationships within the bodybuilding community: respecting professional boundaries, staying loyal to your coach, avoiding gossip and toxic cliques, and supporting others without overstepping into giving protocol advice. Finally, she examines how bodybuilding can affect relationships outside the sport. Changes in mood, social habits, diet, and periods of isolation can influence partners, friends, and family, making honest communication and personal accountability essential. Key themes include: mindset during prep, avoiding negative spirals, post-show recovery, reverse dieting, off-season growth, body image, coach-athlete communication, community dynamics, professional boundaries, and maintaining healthy relationships outside bodybuilding. Watch the episode here: https://youtu.be/HHzITsItRb4 🎙️ Beyond Condition brings you conversations with athletes, coaches, judges, researchers and industry experts exploring bodybuilding, performance, mindset, health and everything beyond the stage. If this conversation resonates with you, subscribe to Beyond Condition, share the episode with a fellow athlete or coach, and let us know your thoughts in the comments. Find Sarah on Instagram: @sarahparker_bb THE ULTIMATE SHOW DAY GUIDE E-BOOK: Purchase here Beyond Condition Coaching Application: Click here
S6 · E88
September 27 · 57 min
Building Mental Resilience as a Bodybuilder | Live Seminar
Send us Fan Mail Welcome Back to The Beyond Condition Podcast for a Live Session. I'm thrilled to share that my dear friend Emily Bagshaw, a coach and competitive athlete, invited me to speak at her team seminar on Saturday, September 19th. We thought it would be an excellent opportunity to focus our discussion on Mental Resilience in Bodybuilding. The topics we'll explore include: The reality of competitive bodybuilding Mental health and athlete well-being Coaching relationships The impact of social media and external pressures The challenges of preparation Athlete identity and self-worth Body dysmorphia and the significance of scale weight This conversation is sincere and transparent, focusing on subjects that foster a sense of community within bodybuilding, allowing you to express your thoughts. Find Emily on instagram @emilyjane.coaching Watch the episode here: https://youtu.be/8xTT5-37L6g 🎙️ Beyond Condition brings you conversations with athletes, coaches, judges, researchers and industry experts exploring bodybuilding, performance, mindset, health and everything beyond the stage. If this conversation resonates with you, subscribe to Beyond Condition, share the episode with a fellow athlete or coach, and let us know your thoughts in the comments. Find Sarah on Instagram: @sarahparker_bb THE ULTIMATE SHOW DAY GUIDE E-BOOK: Purchase here Beyond Condition Coaching Application: Click here
S5 · E86
September 25 · 7 min
Show Day Pep Talk: Fall Forward, Stay Present & Own the Stage
Send us Fan Mail Show day is finally here. In this powerful mini-episode of Beyond Condition, Sarah Parker delivers a raw and grounding pep talk for bodybuilders stepping on stage - reminding you that simply making it to show day is an achievement in itself. Sarah encourages competitors to breathe, stay present, trust the preparation, and focus on the only things within their control: displaying their physique, executing their posing, managing their stressors, and bringing their personality and presence to the stage. With the mantra 'Falling Forward,' Sarah explores how to maintain perspective when the outcome is uncertain, why your placing can never take away the pride and work invested in your prep, and how to reframe the difficult moments of bodybuilding without allowing negativity to derail your progress. Whether this is your first competition or your tenth, use this episode as your reminder to stop comparing, trust your process, light up the stage, and remember why you chose to be there. Your job is to show up, execute the plan, and be yourself. Whatever happens next, keep falling forward. Watch the episode here: https://youtu.be/--VpdHeD5f4 🎙️ Beyond Condition brings you conversations with athletes, coaches, judges, researchers and industry experts exploring bodybuilding, performance, mindset, health and everything beyond the stage. If this conversation resonates with you, subscribe to Beyond Condition, share the episode with a fellow athlete or coach, and let us know your thoughts in the comments. Find Sarah on Instagram: @sarahparker_bb THE ULTIMATE SHOW DAY GUIDE E-BOOK: Purchase here Beyond Condition Coaching Application: Click here
S5 · E87
September 25 · 15 min
The Post-Show Dump: Understanding the Day After a Bodybuilding Competition
Send us Fan Mail What happens after the stage lights go off? For many bodybuilding competitors, the day after a show can bring an unexpected mix of emotions, exhaustion, hunger, isolation and uncertainty. Regardless of your placing, the physical and mental demands of contest prep don't simply disappear when the competition is over. In this episode, we talk about the post-show dump and how to navigate the transition out of competition mode while respecting what your body and mind have been through. We explore: The Post-Show Emotional Crash - Why highs and lows can hit hard the morning after a competition, regardless of the result. Making Time for Yourself - Why solitude, walking, music and journaling can give you the space to process the experience. Acknowledging What You've Done - Recognising the physical and mental effort that only you truly experienced throughout contest prep. Understanding Your Physiology - Peak condition comes with physiological costs, and fatigue, hunger, hormonal changes and recovery don't disappear overnight. Managing Your Energy - After months of intense focus, your mental bandwidth may be limited, making the return to work, family and everyday responsibilities challenging. Managing Social Commitments - Why it's important not to overload yourself with social plans immediately after a show. Creating Structure - Whether you're reversing out of prep or preparing for another competition, having a clear plan can provide stability during the transition. Normalising the Experience - Mood changes, loneliness and feeling lost after a competition can happen, and you don't have to navigate them alone. Asking for Support - Reaching out to your coach, friends, family or support network isn't weakness; it's an important part of looking after yourself. Competition prep demands an enormous amount from you. When the show is over, recovery becomes the priority. You are allowed to slow down. You are allowed to process what you've just experienced. And you are allowed to recognise just how much you've been through. This is your reminder that the post-show period deserves just as much care, structure and attention as the preparation that came before it. Watch the episode here: https://youtu.be/8pWBeRRP_jA 🎙️ Beyond Condition brings you conversations with athletes, coaches, judges, researchers and industry experts exploring bodybuilding, performance, mindset, health and everything beyond the stage. If this conversation resonates with you, subscribe to Beyond Condition, share the episode with a fellow athlete or coach, and let us know your thoughts in the comments. Find Sarah on Instagram: @sarahparker_bb THE ULTIMATE SHOW DAY GUIDE E-BOOK: Purchase here Beyond Condition Coaching Application: Click here
S5 · E85
September 25 · 8 min
The Night Before Show Day: Mastering Your Mind Before Competition Day
Send us Fan Mail The night before a bodybuilding competition can be filled with nerves, excitement, fatigue, anticipation and a thousand different thoughts. But what if you didn’t need to control any of them? In this episode, we explore the mindset every bodybuilder can use in the final hours before stepping on stage - from accepting your emotions and quieting the noise, to trusting the work you’ve already put in. You’ll learn how to: Embrace whatever emotions show up instead of trying to force yourself into a particular mindset. Shift your focus from proving something to others to reconnecting with your own why. Use every training session, meal, cardio session and sacrifice as a badge of honour and a reminder of what you’ve accomplished. Control what you can control while trusting your federation, coaches and event staff with everything else. Prioritise rest, calm and presence so you can arrive on show day ready to perform. Stay in your own lane and focus on delivering the physique you’ve worked so hard to build - rather than worrying about everyone around you. The competition is almost here. The work is done. Now it's about trusting yourself, staying present and allowing everything you've built to come through. And remember: you don't need to feel a certain way to perform at your best. You just need to be present and trust the process. 🎧 Listen now - and then check out the Show Day Pep Talk episode on YouTube and your favourite podcast platform to take that mindset into competition day. Watch the episode here: https://youtu.be/8lIWhcqCjcM 🎙️ Beyond Condition brings you conversations with athletes, coaches, judges, researchers and industry experts exploring bodybuilding, performance, mindset, health and everything beyond the stage. If this conversation resonates with you, subscribe to Beyond Condition, share the episode with a fellow athlete or coach, and let us know your thoughts in the comments. Find Sarah on Instagram: @sarahparker_bb THE ULTIMATE SHOW DAY GUIDE E-BOOK: Purchase here Beyond Condition Coaching Application: Click here
S5 · E84
September 23 · 59 min
The Gym Is Not Therapy | Mental Health, Trauma & Emotional Regulation
Send us Fan Mail Is the gym therapy? No - and Sarah Parker isn't claiming that it is. In this deeply personal solo episode of The Beyond Condition Podcast, Sarah explores the debate around "the gym is not therapy" through her own experience of trauma, emotional regulation, mental health and bodybuilding. For Sarah, the gym isn't a replacement for professional therapy or counselling. It's something different: a powerful emotional regulator and a place where she can process difficult emotions, regain perspective and find stability when life feels overwhelming. Her mantra is simple: "My darkness has a home." Sarah talks openly about why training five days a week has become a non-negotiable part of her life, how exercise has helped her process grief and anger, and why sometimes stepping away from a heated conversation and going to the gym is the healthiest choice she can make in that moment. But the conversation goes much deeper. Sarah reflects on childhood trauma, abuse, homelessness as a teenager, sexual harassment and the coping mechanisms she developed to survive those experiences. She discusses the emotional shutdown response she once relied on, why she learned to handle everything alone, and how those survival instincts have influenced her relationships and approach to asking for help. She also shares her experiences with therapy and counselling, including why early encounters with professional support left her feeling interrogated rather than supported, and how those experiences shaped her relationship with traditional therapeutic approaches. This isn't an argument against therapy. It's a conversation about recognising that mental health is individual, and that different people find regulation, connection and stability in different ways. Sarah also explores boundaries, the importance of allowing people time and space to process difficult experiences, and why asking someone questions can feel very different from questioning them. In this episode, we explore: • Is the gym therapy? • The difference between exercise and professional therapy • Using the gym as an emotional regulator • Sarah's mantra: "My darkness has a home" • Training as a non-negotiable source of stability • Processing anger, grief and difficult emotions through exercise • Childhood trauma and its long-term impact • Abuse, homelessness and survival mechanisms • Emotional shutdown and going non-verbal • Learning to move beyond survival responses • Sarah's experiences with counselling and therapy • Why traditional therapy doesn't work the same way for everyone • The importance of boundaries and processing time • Why asking questions can feel different from questioning someone • The relationship between bodybuilding, prep and mental health • How physiological stress can affect emotional regulation • Why mental health cannot be approached with a one-size-fits-all solution • Finding healthy ways to process difficult emotions • The importance of having a trusted support network • How shared experiences can help people feel less alone The gym isn't therapy. But for some people, it can be a place to breathe, process, regulate and find their way back to themselves. Sarah's story isn't presented as a prescription for anyone else. It's an honest reflection on what has helped one person survive, process and grow - and a reminder that sometimes simply hearing someone else's experience can make you feel less alone. Your coping mechanisms were built for a reason. The question is whether they're still serving you today. If this episode resonates with you, take a moment to share it with someone who might need to hear it. Watch the episode here: https://youtu.be/2ZxE7JLlATw 🎙️ Beyond Condition brings you conversations with athletes, coaches, judges, researchers and industry experts exploring bodybuilding, performance, mindset, health and everything beyond the stage. If this conversation resonates with you, subscribe to Beyond Condition, share the episode with a fellow athlete or coach, and let us know your thoughts in the comments. Find Sarah on Instagram: @sarahparker_bb THE ULTIMATE SHOW DAY GUIDE E-BOOK: Purchase here Beyond Condition Coaching Application: Click here
S5 · E83
September 20 · 1 hr 4 min
Building More Than Muscle: James Warren on Competition Prep & Mental Resilience | Bodybuilding Uncovered Ep. 17
Send us Fan Mail In this episode, James Warren - coach, multi-sport athlete and now bodybuilder - joins us during the final stages of his UKDFBA competition prep. We explore his evolution from a casual competitor to a more focused bodybuilder, and the physical, mental and emotional challenges that come with an aggressive competition prep. What does it really take to push your body and mind to the limit for a natural bodybuilding competition? James shares how his approach has changed since competing in physique and men’s model categories, including why he stepped away from his previous hybrid approach of combining bodybuilding prep with 10K running. This time around, after a full off-season focused on building muscle and 20 weeks of dedicated posing practice, his goal is to bring a more complete package to the novice and classic bodybuilding categories. But the conversation goes far beyond training and nutrition. James opens up about the emotional volatility of the final weeks of prep, particularly the period between five and two weeks out, and the impact this can have on relationships, mood and everyday life. We discuss why communicating these changes with your partner is so important, what drives a high achiever to continually pursue increasingly ambitious goals, and how suspected ADHD/neurodivergence may influence his ability to hyper-focus and constantly seek new challenges. We also tackle one of the most overlooked parts of competition prep: what happens after the show? Rather than viewing the competition as the finish line, James has built an "exit strategy" designed to give him purpose and structure immediately afterwards. From starting CPDs the day after the competition to prioritising health, recovery, family and his relationship, he explains why having a plan for life beyond the stage can be just as important as preparing for it. Key takeaways: The evolution of James's bodybuilding approach and competitive mindset Why the final weeks of prep can be psychologically challenging Managing relationships and communicating emotional changes during prep The role of ambitious goals, hyper-focus and suspected neurodivergence Why posing should be enjoyable as well as effective The importance of having a post-show "exit strategy" Recovering physical health, nutrition and normality after competition Finding purpose when the competition is over And because James is right in the thick of competition week, we're also planning a follow-up mini-episode capturing his real-life experience immediately after stepping off the stage. Find James on Instagram @completeperformancecoach Find James on Youtube @CompletePerformance_Coaching Watch the episode here: https://youtu.be/av8oLZ-dZmU 🎙️ Beyond Condition brings you conversations with athletes, coaches, judges, researchers and industry experts exploring bodybuilding, performance, mindset, health and everything beyond the stage. If this conversation resonates with you, subscribe to Beyond Condition, share the episode with a fellow athlete or coach, and let us know your thoughts in the comments. Find Sarah on Instagram: @sarahparker_bb THE ULTIMATE SHOW DAY GUIDE E-BOOK: Purchase here Beyond Condition Coaching Application: Click here
S5 · E82
September 16 · 1 hr 11 min
Femininity, Posing, Judging & The Reality of Bodybuilding | Sarah & Romana
Send us Fan Mail This week, Sarah and Romana get deep into the reality of competing in bodybuilding - from femininity and stage presentation to judging standards, posing, training volume and the mental side of preparation. They discuss the criticism surrounding Anastasia Korableva, including her posing routine and use of wigs, and question why athletes are still judged against narrow ideas of what a “feminine” bodybuilder should look like. They also explore how different federations can favour completely different physiques and posing styles, and whether competitors sometimes have to adapt their presentation to fit what judges are looking for. On the training side, they break down volume management, recovery, single-leg pressing, joint health and workout splits, including why doing less can sometimes lead to better progress. Romana also talks about stepping away from constant logbooking and how detaching from numbers has changed her relationship with training. They get into WPD vs Women’s Bodybuilding posing, bikini trends, stage presentation, competition prep and the pressure to conform, before looking ahead to Romana’s plans for next season, managing iron levels, and taking time off around her upcoming wedding. Expect plenty of bodybuilding opinions, competition talk, training debates, federation politics, femininity, swear words and unfiltered gym chat. And the question of the episode: Is “bitch” offensive - and what’s your favourite swear word? Find Romana on Instagram @romana.skotzen_ifbbpro Watch it here: https://youtu.be/DTvJRBGHZS0 🎙️ Beyond Condition brings you conversations with athletes, coaches, judges, researchers and industry experts exploring bodybuilding, performance, mindset, health and everything beyond the stage. If this conversation resonates with you, subscribe to Beyond Condition, share the episode with a fellow athlete or coach, and let us know your thoughts in the comments. Find Sarah on Instagram: @sarahparker_bb THE ULTIMATE SHOW DAY GUIDE E-BOOK: Purchase here Beyond Condition Coaching Application: Click here
S5 · E81
September 13 · 1 hr 5 min
Respect the Art: Inside The Posing Games with Jon & Sammy | Bodybuilding Uncovered Ep. 16
Send us Fan Mail In this episode, Sarah Parker sits down with posing coaches Jon and Sammy to explore the launch of The Posing Games, a groundbreaking event built around one simple idea: the best poser wins. What happens when bodybuilding stops being just about muscle - and starts becoming an art form? After more than a decade coaching athletes and building a global posing community, Jon and Sammy are on a mission to bring the artistry, entertainment and soul back to bodybuilding. Their philosophy is summed up with three simple words: Respect the Art. They discuss why posing deserves to be recognised as a craft in its own right, how presentation can transform an already impressive physique, and why they believe modern bodybuilding has lost some of the entertainment that made the sport's Golden Era so memorable. The conversation also takes us through their journey from in-person posing seminars to Posing Unvsty, their pioneering approach to online coaching, and the community they've created around posing. Inside The Posing Games Taking place at Camberley Theatre, East Surrey, The Posing Games will feature 12 artists competing across a three-hour show, combining choreographed routines with freestyle head-to-head battles in the challenge round. Expect a production unlike a traditional bodybuilding show, with custom lighting, spotlights, dry ice, fireworks and foam fingers bringing each performance to life. October 11th - 1:00 PM start (doors open at 12:00 PM) 📍 Camberley Theatre, East Surrey 🎟️ Tickets: Available via @PosingGames on Instagram Whether you're a bodybuilder, posing enthusiast, coach, or simply someone who loves great performance, this episode explores why presentation isn't an afterthought - it is the art. Find Jon and Sammy on Instagram @jonlofthousee @flowbysammy Watch the episode here: https://youtu.be/0Db4azcRca8 🎙️ Beyond Condition brings you conversations with athletes, coaches, judges, researchers and industry experts exploring bodybuilding, performance, mindset, health and everything beyond the stage. If this conversation resonates with you, subscribe to Beyond Condition, share the episode with a fellow athlete or coach, and let us know your thoughts in the comments. Find Sarah on Instagram: @sarahparker_bb THE ULTIMATE SHOW DAY GUIDE E-BOOK: Purchase here Beyond Condition Coaching Application: Click here
S5 · E80
September 9 · 58 min
Managing Cognitive Load in Prep | How to Survive the Final Weeks
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Beyond Condition Podcast, Sarah Parker explores the often-overlooked psychological side of bodybuilding contest prep and peak week - and why extreme leanness can affect far more than your physique. What happens to your mind when you're pushing your body to its absolute limits? As body fat drops, the body doesn't understand that you're preparing for a competition. It simply recognises that energy availability is falling and begins fighting to protect itself. Combined with hormonal changes, hunger, fatigue and reduced recovery, this can create brain fog, forgetfulness, mood swings, irrational thinking, self-doubt and decision fatigue. Sarah explains why rigid structure during contest prep isn't about making life difficult - it's a survival and performance strategy. The key is creating that structure early, building recovery into the plan and making decisions before cognitive capacity begins to decline. The conversation goes particularly deep into peak week, when physical activity often decreases but the psychological pressure can increase. With fewer tasks to focus on, athletes can become vulnerable to overthinking, comparison, doom-scrolling and second-guessing their preparation. Sarah shares her own extraordinary Miss Universe peak-week experience, when an unexpected qualification meant arranging international travel, taking a 10-hour flight while stage lean, rescheduling clients and organising an entire competition trip with virtually no preparation time - ultimately going on to win the title. The lesson? You can't control everything that happens during prep, but you can control how prepared you are to deal with the unexpected. In this episode, we explore: • The psychological effects of extreme leanness • Why contest prep is essentially controlled starvation • Hormonal changes and prep-induced fatigue • Brain fog, mood swings and decision fatigue • Why athletes experience irrational thoughts during prep • Creating structure from the beginning of competition prep • Why recovery must be part of your prep plan including, sleep, naps, massage, yoga and downtime • Using weekly step averages to manage unexpected commitments • Why one disrupted day doesn't mean you've failed prep • Peak week psychology and reduced activity • The dangers of overthinking and comparison • Doom-scrolling during peak week • Managing the night before a bodybuilding competition • Creating show-day rituals and routines • Sarah's unexpected Miss Universe peak week • Managing international travel while stage lean • The importance of support networks • Why asking for help isn't weakness • Preparing your competition logistics 8–10 weeks in advance • Travel, accommodation, tanning, hair, makeup and bikini planning • Using your coach as your "second set of eyes" • How to stop second-guessing and simply execute • Identifying what you're actually stressed about The leaner you become, the more important your systems become. Your future self won't have the same energy, patience or cognitive capacity that you have at the beginning of prep - so prepare everything you possibly can before you need it. Structure isn't there to make prep harder. It's there to make the hardest part of prep easier. And when things inevitably go wrong, remember: Control what you can. Ask for help. Adapt. Keep moving forward. Watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/PLJwipdagKM 🎙️ Beyond Condition brings you conversations with athletes, coaches, judges, researchers and industry experts exploring bodybuilding, performance, mindset, health and everything beyond the stage. If this conversation resonates with you, subscribe to Beyond Condition, share the episode with a fellow athlete or coach, and let us know your thoughts in the comments. Find Sarah on Instagram: @sarahparker_bb THE ULTIMATE SHOW DAY GUIDE E-BOOK: Purchase here Beyond Condition Coaching Application: Click here
S5 · E79
September 6 · 59 min
From Last Place to Masters Olympia Champion: Dorian Haywood’s 29-Year Bodybuilding Journey | Bodybuilding Uncovered Ep. 15
Send us Fan Mail Welcome back to The Beyond Condition Podcast! I'm your host, Sarah Parker, and today I'm joined by Master's Mr Olympia, Dorian Haywood. What does it take to stay in bodybuilding for nearly three decades when the wins don't come? In this episode, we sit down with IFBB Pro and coach Dorian Haywood, whose extraordinary bodybuilding journey spans 29 years, more than 80 competitions, countless setbacks and ultimately a Masters Olympia victory in Japan in 2024. Dorian's story began in 1997 as an 86-pound high school wrestler looking to gain weight. At just 17 years old, he entered his first bodybuilding competition weighing 136 lbs — and finished last. Fast forward through 16 years of amateur competition, around 40 shows and 11 Nationals, and Dorian finally earned his IFBB Pro card at the 2016 Nationals in Miami as Super Heavyweight Champion. But becoming a professional wasn't the end of the journey. After turning pro, Dorian experienced a nine-year winless streak before achieving back-to-back victories at the Daytona Beach Masters Pro and, ultimately, the 2024 Masters Olympia - a moment he describes as an almost spiritual, out-of-body experience. This episode goes far beyond competition results. Dorian discusses the mental resilience required to keep showing up after repeated losses, why the real competition is with yourself, and how learning to focus on the process rather than the placing transformed his career. We also explore the evolution of bodybuilding, the impact of social media, the growing and often unregulated coaching industry, and what it really takes to build a successful coach-athlete relationship. Dorian shares the powerful story of his nine-year relationship with his late coach Dave Callick, who coached him through 24 of 26 competitions before passing his knowledge and trust on to Ariel Cutts. Just eight months after beginning that new relationship, Dorian and Ariel won the Masters Olympia together. For Dorian, coaching isn't simply about building physiques. It's about creating a legacy - carrying forward the lessons, knowledge and influence of the coaches who helped shape him. In this episode, we explore: • Dorian Haywood's 29-year bodybuilding journey • Going from 86 lbs as a high school wrestler to Masters Olympia Champion • Competing in his first bodybuilding show at just 17 • Losing for years and developing mental resilience • Earning his IFBB Pro card after 16 years as an amateur • Dorian's nine-year winless streak as a professional • Winning the 2024 Masters Olympia in Japan • Why the true competition is with yourself • Process vs. placement and redefining success • The evolution of competitive bodybuilding • The impact of social media on bodybuilding and coaching • The challenges of an unregulated coaching industry • Dorian's relationship with his late coach Dave Callick • Working with Ariel Cutts and winning the Masters Olympia • What makes a successful coach-athlete relationship • Dorian's coaching philosophy and client selection • Building a legacy through coaching • Knowing when to say no to a client • Why results matter more than the size of a coaching roster Nearly 30 years in the sport. More than 80 competitions. Countless losses. Two incredible wins. One Masters Olympia title. Dorian's story is a reminder that your journey isn't defined by how many times you win - it's defined by whether you keep becoming better. The true competition is with yourself. Find Dorian on Instagram @dorianhaywood.masters.mr.o Watch the episode here: https://youtu.be/aLYxGaOufko 🎙️ Beyond Condition brings you conversations with athletes, coaches, judges, researchers and industry experts exploring bodybuilding, performance, mindset, health and everything beyond the stage. If this conversation resonates with you, subscribe to Beyond Condition, share the episode with a fellow athlete or coach, and let us know your thoughts in the comments. Find Sarah on Instagram: @sarahparker_bb THE ULTIMATE SHOW DAY GUIDE E-BOOK: Purchase here Beyond Condition Coaching Application: Click here
S5 · E78
September 2 · 47 min
Pure Elite Experience | Dee’s Transformation Journey, Backstage Reality & Competition Coaching
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Beyond Condition Podcast, Sarah Parker shares her first experience attending a Pure Elite competition as a coach, alongside long-term client Dee, who competed in the Transformation category. What does it really take to step onto a bodybuilding stage when you've already overcome some of the biggest challenges of your life? Dee's journey is about far more than physique transformation. Having overcome drug and alcohol dependency, she took her fitness journey to the next level, through finding The Beyond Condition Podcast and began a journey that eventually led her to bodybuilding. After a previous prep was postponed following a health scare, Sarah made the decision to prioritise Dee's wellbeing and wait until 2026 - proving that sometimes the best coaching decision is knowing when not to compete. At Pure Elite, Dee entered the Transformation category, where competitors not only showcase their physical transformation but also share their personal story through a projected image and narration. For Sarah, this created a powerful reminder of what bodybuilding and fitness can represent beyond placings and trophies. The episode also takes listeners behind the scenes of three very different bodybuilding competitions - an IFBB Pro Qualifier in Denmark, an NPA Natural show and Pure Elite - comparing backstage environments, coach involvement, athlete support and the very different experiences competitors can have depending on their federation and circumstances. Sarah also discusses one of her core coaching principles: stay in your lane. Knowing your experience, being honest with your athletes and understanding when you need to learn or refer someone elsewhere are essential parts of being a good coach. And once the competition is over, what should you actually eat? Sarah shares her approach to post-show nutrition and recovery, including why rehydration should come first, why planning your post-show meal matters and why athletes often regret feeling pressured to immediately eat everything in sight. In this episode, we explore: • Dee's incredible transformation journey • Overcoming addiction and discovering bodybuilding • Why Sarah postponed Dee's previous competition prep • The Pure Elite Transformation category • Why transformation is about more than a placing • Sarah's first Pure Elite experience as a coach • Comparing three very different competition environments • IFBB Pro Qualifier experiences • Natural bodybuilding competition backstage dynamics • Coach presence and athlete support backstage • Why coaches need to "stay in their lane" • Being honest about your experience as a coach • Why coaches should support rather than compete against each other • Managing realistic expectations around competition placings • Why coaches can't guarantee results • Supporting anxious athletes on show day • Post-show hydration and nutrition • Why you shouldn't feel pressured to binge immediately after competing • Planning your post-show meal in advance • The difference between finishing a season and preparing for another show A competition isn't just about the trophy. Sometimes it's about proving to yourself that you're capable of doing something you once believed was impossible. And sometimes the biggest win happens long before you ever step on stage. This is bodybuilding beyond the condition. Watch the episode here: https://youtu.be/DNlQ4pN4T6Y 🎙️ Beyond Condition brings you conversations with athletes, coaches, judges, researchers and industry experts exploring bodybuilding, performance, mindset, health and everything beyond the stage. If this conversation resonates with you, subscribe to Beyond Condition, share the episode with a fellow athlete or coach, and let us know your thoughts in the comments. Find Sarah on Instagram: @sarahparker_bb THE ULTIMATE SHOW DAY GUIDE E-BOOK: Purchase here Beyond Condition Coaching Application: Click here
S5 · E77
August 30 · 1 hr 28 min
Nearly 400lbs to the Bodybuilding Stage: Food Addiction, Transformation & Life After Competition | Matt Holdcroft | Bodybuilding Uncovered Ep. 14
Send us Fan Mail Welcome back to The Beyond Condition Podcast! I'm your host, Sarah Parker, and today I'm joined by my good friend, Matt Holdcroft. What happens when the battle with food becomes stronger than the desire to change? In this powerful and deeply honest episode, Matt shares his extraordinary journey from weighing nearly 400lbs to stepping onto a bodybuilding stage - a transformation sparked by a near-fatal illness, an induced coma and a surgeon's blunt warning that he had just 10 years to live. Matt opens up about his history with food addiction, emotional eating, secret bingeing and the psychological cycle of depression and overeating, explaining why food addiction can be so difficult to overcome when food is an unavoidable part of everyday life. His journey wasn't without major obstacles. During his first bodybuilding prep, Matt required emergency bowel surgery just seven weeks before his competition. The physical and psychological challenges of losing a huge amount of weight - and then navigating life after the show - reveal why transformation doesn't end when you step on stage. The conversation also explores one of the most important and often neglected parts of competitive bodybuilding: the post-show and rebound phase. For someone with a history of food addiction, the period after competition can be particularly dangerous. We discuss why post-show coaching should continue, why communication with your coach is essential when things go off-plan, and why the day of the competition is actually only the halfway point. In this episode, we explore: • Matt's transformation from nearly 400lbs to competitive bodybuilder • Surviving a near-fatal illness and being placed on ECMO • The surgeon's warning that changed everything • Food addiction and emotional eating • Binge eating, secret eating and decision fatigue • The psychological cycle of depression and overeating • Can fitness addiction replace food addiction? • The physical and psychological reality of bodybuilding prep • Emergency surgery during competition preparation • Loose skin removal and rebuilding after major weight loss • Post-show rebound and the risks of food addiction returning • Why post-show coaching is just as important as competition prep • Why coaches need to be honest about whether a client is ready to compete • Why first-time competitors shouldn't rush into high-level shows • The importance of communication between athlete and coach • When therapy may be needed alongside bodybuilding coaching Your transformation doesn't end when you reach the stage. For many athletes, the real test begins when the structure of prep disappears. This is an honest conversation about weight loss, food addiction, bodybuilding, mental resilience, coaching and what it really takes to create lasting change. Find Matt on Instagram @matt_holdcroft @quarterturnnutrition Watch the episode here: https://youtu.be/ARohf9jQ3RI 🎙️ Beyond Condition brings you conversations with athletes, coaches, judges, researchers and industry experts exploring bodybuilding, performance, mindset, health and everything beyond the stage. If this conversation resonates with you, subscribe to Beyond Condition, share the episode with a fellow athlete or coach, and let us know your thoughts in the comments. Find Sarah on Instagram: @sarahparker_bb THE ULTIMATE SHOW DAY GUIDE E-BOOK: Purchase here Beyond Condition Coaching Application: Click here
S5 · E76
August 26 · 26 min
What Bodybuilding Judges Can’t Measure
Send us Fan Mail In this episode of The Beyond Condition Podcast, Sarah Parker takes an honest look at the reality of bodybuilding judging, competition placings and the mindset required to compete successfully. What do bodybuilding judges actually see when you step on stage - and what don't they see? Every athlete arrives at a show with a story. Months of dieting, sacrifices, anxiety, relationship breakdowns, personal struggles, injuries and everything they've overcome to make it to the stage. But when the judges assess your physique, they aren't judging your story - they're judging what you present on that day. Sarah explains how judges evaluate athletes within a limited window, focusing on factors such as physique, conditioning, symmetry, posing and presentation, according to the criteria of the federation. The episode explores why athletes need to develop the resilience to separate their self-worth from their competition results. A difficult prep doesn't earn extra points. Nerves don't change the judging criteria. Problems backstage or on show day don't alter the score. Sarah also shares her own experience of deciding to divorce just four weeks before a competition, knowing that the emotional impact meant she wouldn't bring her best physique to the stage - but choosing to compete anyway and accept the outcome. This is a conversation about taking responsibility, accepting what you cannot control and using feedback as a tool for growth rather than looking for someone to blame. In this episode, we explore: • How bodybuilding judging actually works • What judges can and cannot assess • Why your personal struggles don't affect your placing • The importance of physique, conditioning, posing and presentation • Dealing with nerves and anxiety on stage • Developing resilience after a disappointing result • Why blaming judges, coaches or federations won't move you forward • How to use constructive feedback to improve • Separating your self-worth from your competition placing • Preparing mentally for bodybuilding competitions • Why posing needs to become automatic • Practising under realistic stage conditions • Visualisation and preparing for the competition venue • The importance of getting judges' feedback after a show • Why the journey matters even when you don't win Your placing is a snapshot of what you presented on one particular day. It doesn't measure your sacrifice. It doesn't measure what you've overcome. And it doesn't determine your worth. Control what you can. Accept what you cannot. And compete for yourself. Because ultimately, the most important competition isn't against the athlete standing next to you. It's against the person you were yesterday. Watch the episode: https://youtu.be/It01ZygPOWg 🎙️ Beyond Condition brings you conversations with athletes, coaches, judges, researchers and industry experts exploring bodybuilding, performance, mindset, health and everything beyond the stage. If this conversation resonates with you, subscribe to Beyond Condition, share the episode with a fellow athlete or coach, and let us know your thoughts in the comments. Find Sarah on Instagram: @sarahparker_bb THE ULTIMATE SHOW DAY GUIDE E-BOOK: Purchase here Beyond Condition Coaching Application: Click here
S5 · E75
August 23 · 1 hr 18 min
Beyond the Stage: The Psychology, Recovery & Reality of Bodybuilding | Helle Trevino IFBB Pro Olympian and Gina Cavaliero | Bodybuilding Uncovered Ep. 13
Send us Fan Mail Welcome Back to The Beyond Condition Podcast. I’m your host, Sarah Parker, and today we have 2 legends of the bodybuilding world, Helle Trevino and Gina Cavaliero, joining us. What happens when the competition ends? In this episode, Helle and Gina go beyond the stage to explore the side of bodybuilding that often gets overlooked: the psychological, hormonal and emotional journey that comes with preparing for competition, coming out of a show, and eventually stepping away from the sport. They challenge the idea that bodybuilding causes eating disorders or body dysmorphia, arguing that the sport often exposes issues that were already there - while also giving athletes structure, discipline, nutritional knowledge and tools for personal growth. The conversation dives deep into post-show blues, hormonal recovery, the loss of routine and identity after competition, and the often-overlooked importance of a properly managed transition into the off-season. They also discuss why coaching shouldn't end when an athlete walks off stage, and how year-round guidance can make the difference between progressing sustainably and losing years to ineffective training, nutrition and recovery. Helle also opens up about her own journey through competitive retirement, finding a new purpose beyond placings, and discovering the freedom that comes with no longer chasing stage conditioning. From pressure and mindset to coaching, retirement, relationships and personal transformation, this is a conversation about what it really takes to build a healthy, resilient athlete - and an identity that exists beyond bodybuilding. In this episode, we explore: • Post-show depression and the importance of structure • Hormonal and physiological recovery after competition • Why post-show tapering matters • The psychological challenges of competitive retirement • Bodybuilding, eating disorders and body dysmorphia • The importance of year-round coaching and off-season development • Building identity beyond stage placings • Productive pressure vs. destructive pressure • Why coaches need to be the athlete's voice of reason • Finding purpose, resilience and freedom beyond competition Because bodybuilding isn't just about what happens on stage. The real transformation happens in everything that comes after it. Connect with The Transformation Company 🌍 Online coaching available worldwide - Visit their Instagram @the.transformation.company Find our guests on Instagram @helletrevino @ginacavaliero Watch the episode here: https://youtu.be/HJv6q4cKyGM 🎙️ Beyond Condition brings you conversations with athletes, coaches, judges, researchers and industry experts exploring bodybuilding, performance, mindset, health and everything beyond the stage. If this conversation resonates with you, subscribe to Beyond Condition, share the episode with a fellow athlete or coach, and let us know your thoughts in the comments. Find Sarah on Instagram: @sarahparker_bb THE ULTIMATE SHOW DAY GUIDE E-BOOK: Purchase here Beyond Condition Coaching Application: Click here
S5 · E74
August 19 · 14 min
Going Assisted: Should You Tell Your Family? | The Conversation Nobody Talks About
Send us Fan Mail What happens when you decide to go assisted - but the people closest to you don't know? In this honest solo episode, Sarah explores one of the most overlooked parts of using performance-enhancing drugs in bodybuilding: having an open conversation with the people you live with and love. Sarah shares her personal experience of telling her mother about her decision to use testosterone, including how she prepared for the conversation, explained her reasoning and approached it from a place of informed decision-making rather than secrecy. But this isn't simply a conversation about steroids or bodybuilding. It's about trust, relationships, transparency and understanding how your choices can affect the people around you. Sarah discusses why role-reversal can be such a useful way to approach the conversation: if someone you loved made this decision, how would you feel finding out later - especially if you noticed changes in their mood, energy, sleep, sex drive or behaviour? We also explore why some people choose to keep their assisted journey private, the emotional weight that secrecy can create, and why there is no single right answer when it comes to disclosure. In this episode: • Should you tell your partner or family you're going assisted? • Sarah's experience telling her mother about steroid use • How to prepare for a difficult conversation • Why transparency and informed decision-making matter • How bodybuilding can look from the perspective of someone outside the sport • Potential changes in mood, sleep, energy and sex drive • The impact of secrecy on relationships • Why your home environment matters • Injectables and the practical realities of keeping use private • The importance of understanding risk vs. reward • Why due diligence matters before using any compound • How to involve your coach in navigating these conversations This episode isn't about telling you what decision to make. It's about encouraging honesty, preparation, self-awareness and consideration for the people who may be affected by that decision. Because going assisted doesn't happen in isolation - and sometimes the hardest conversation isn't with your coach. It's with the people who love you. Watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/dGI-J46Bqt0 🎙️ Beyond Condition brings you conversations with athletes, coaches, judges, researchers and industry experts exploring bodybuilding, performance, mindset, health and everything beyond the stage. If this conversation resonates with you, subscribe to Beyond Condition, share the episode with a fellow athlete or coach, and let us know your thoughts in the comments. Find Sarah on Instagram: @sarahparker_bb THE ULTIMATE SHOW DAY GUIDE E-BOOK: Purchase here Beyond Condition Coaching Application: Click here
S5 · E73
August 16 · 1 hr 4 min
Bodybuilding Posing Secrets That Win Shows | Quentin Patterson on Mindset, Stage Presence & Competition Prep | Bodybuilding Uncovered Ep. 12
Send us Fan Mail Welcome Back to The Beyond Condition Podcast. I’m your host, Sarah Parker, and today we have an outstanding guest, Quentin Patterson, joining us. Today's guest is someone who is redefining what posing really means in bodybuilding. Quentin Patterson is an elite posing coach, motivational speaker, and advocate for authentic self-expression. In this conversation, we go far beyond mandatory poses and stage routines to explore the mindset, artistry, and emotional resilience that separate good competitors from unforgettable ones. Quentin shares his incredible personal journey, practical coaching strategies, and why discovering your own style- not copying someone else's - is the key to standing out on stage. Whether you're preparing for your first competition or looking for inspiration in your own life, this episode has something for you. What separates a good physique from a winning physique? Learn from elite posing coach and motivational speaker Quentin Patterson, it's not just muscle - it's the ability to bring that physique to life. In this powerful conversation, Sarah Parker sits down with Quentin to explore why posing is one of the most overlooked yet decisive skills in bodybuilding. Together, they unpack the artistry behind movement, the psychology of performance, and the mindset required to thrive both on and off the stage. Quentin shares his remarkable journey - from overcoming childhood trauma and teaching himself how to compete, to becoming one of the industry's most respected posing coaches. His philosophy goes far beyond hitting mandatory poses; it's about helping athletes discover their own authentic expression, build confidence, and create a stage presence that judges - and audiences - can't ignore. You'll also learn practical posing strategies that every competitor can implement immediately, including how to practise under fatigue, improve transitions, overcome body dysmorphia, use video analysis effectively, and develop the mental resilience needed throughout prep. This episode is about much more than bodybuilding. It's about purpose, self-belief, authenticity, and using adversity as fuel for growth. In this episode you'll discover: Why posing is the skill that can make or break your placing. The biggest mistakes competitors make during prep. How to build confidence through intentional practice. The mindset techniques Quentin uses with his athletes. Why your "why" is your greatest weapon during difficult moments. The importance of stage presence, emotion, and storytelling. How bodybuilding can become a vehicle for healing, purpose, and personal growth. Why creating an inclusive community matters more than chasing attention. Thank you so much for listening to this episode. If Quentin's story or advice resonated with you, we'd love to hear your biggest takeaway - share on your Instagram stories or send us your questions, as Quentin will be returning for a follow-up episode where we'll dive even deeper into your audience questions and the topics we couldn't cover today. If you found value in this conversation, please subscribe, share it with a fellow competitor or coach, and leave a review to help us reach more people in the bodybuilding community. Until next time, keep showing up, keep growing, and remember: the strongest physique means very little if you don't have the confidence to own the stage. Connect with Quentin Patterson 📍 In-person posing coaching: Grand Rapids City Gym, Michigan 🌍 Online coaching available worldwide Find Quentin on Instagram @dreadedq61 Watch the episode here: https://youtu.be/5et3QAYOoBE 🎙️ Beyond Condition brings you conversations with athletes, coaches, judges, researchers and industry experts exploring bodybuilding, performance, mindset, health and everything beyond the stage. If this conversation resonates with you, subscribe to Beyond Condition, share the episode with a fellow athlete or coach, and let us know your thoughts in the comments. Find Sarah on Instagram: @sarahparker_bb THE ULTIMATE SHOW DAY GUIDE E-BOOK: Purchase here Beyond Condition Coaching Application: Click here
S5 · E72
August 12 · 55 min
The Biggest Mistakes First-Time Bodybuilding Competitors Make
Send us Fan Mail In this solo episode, Sarah Parker breaks down the most common mistakes she sees both first-time and experienced competitive bodybuilders make throughout the entire prep journey - from choosing the right coach to navigating mindset, relationships, nutrition, posing, peak week and show day. Sarah shares practical lessons from her own competitive experience, including why you should always have a consultation and 'vibe check' before committing to a coach, why your posing coach can be just as important as your prep coach, and how to avoid becoming overly obsessive with food preparation. She also dives into the mental side of bodybuilding, including dealing with comparison, negative self-talk and the impact prep can have on relationships. You’ll hear why communicating with the people around you before prep starts can make a huge difference - and why changing “I have to” into “I get to” can completely shift your mindset. The episode also covers the realities of sugar-free products, food-related neuroticism, posing preparation, show-day logistics and the truth about peak week and post-show recovery. Sarah explains why peak week isn’t a magic transformation, why the work is done long before stepping on stage, and why recovery can take considerably longer than many competitors expect. Plus, Sarah shares how she managed a seven-hour drive and a sickness bug just 48 hours before winning the 2019 British Finals - a reminder that you can’t control everything on show day, but you can control your preparation. In this episode: How to choose the right prep coach and posing coach The importance of doing your research before committing Managing mindset, comparison and negative self-talk Protecting relationships during prep Avoiding food-prep obsession and unnecessary restriction The potential pitfalls of excessive sugar-free products Why posing deserves serious attention How to organise your show-day logistics What peak week can and can’t actually achieve Why post-show recovery timelines vary so dramatically Preparing for the things you can control - and letting go of the things you can’t Whether you’re preparing for your first competition or you’ve already stepped on stage multiple times, this episode is packed with honest advice to help you approach bodybuilding prep with more perspective, preparation and confidence. Watch this episode here: https://youtu.be/1mlaow6ucTg 🎙️ Beyond Condition brings you conversations with athletes, coaches, judges, researchers and industry experts exploring bodybuilding, performance, mindset, health and everything beyond the stage. If this conversation resonates with you, subscribe to Beyond Condition, share the episode with a fellow athlete or coach, and let us know your thoughts in the comments. Find Sarah on Instagram: @sarahparker_bb THE ULTIMATE SHOW DAY GUIDE E-BOOK: Purchase here Beyond Condition Coaching Application: Click here

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