I hate the word "Dieting"

"Desire Creates The Power" Raymond Holliwell

I'm on my soapbox having a little rant this morning. I've decided that I hate the word "dieting" - to me it connotates images of suffering and restriction, of displeasure and a distinct lack of freedom. When I prepare for a competition, I take a completely different tack. I am preparing for a sporting event and I am an athlete. For Figure Competition, which involves presentations at lower body fat levels than normal, this means approaching eating from a preparatory perspective..ie "how can I prepare for this event with joy and do it in a way that does not violate my principles regarding a "dieting scenario". Yes, I do have to manipulate my calorie levels and macronutrient levels to achieve this goal. I'm don't do it by means of displeasure, suffering and restriction. I do it by eating well, eating a wide variety of foods and keeping it interesting. I do it with joy, because as the quote above says, desire really does create the power. Apart from appearing on stage with excellent condition, it also means the road back to your fighting weight is not as bumpy.

I don't know why I even have the urge to write about this today as I'm happily off season but I do know that when it is time to compete again, that this is the approach I will be taking.

Today I thrashed the bike again doing RPM. The temps are relatively mild, but I sweated more than I feel I have my whole life! I'm glad I have another layer of carpet under my bike, because it really got hammered this morning.