So here it is March 2011 and its been 3 months since I was last on stage.
I have definately enjoyed a great break and the time away has given me the opportunity to rest up and work on making improvements. A couple areas that I have put extra focus on are shoulders and glutes.

My plans this year so far are
May 21st 2011: Optimum Classic IFBB Pro Figure
May 28th 2011: California IFBB Pro Figure

With these shows right around the corner, I am offically in contest prep and I got my Game FACE ON!

Check out my new contest preview over on the OhYeah! Blog, you won't be disappointed! :)

After a season of hard work it's showtime! Catch me on stage this weekend at Border States and then November 13th at Kentucky Muscle. I am very excited and super proud!

Also check out Isaac's Border States figure preview over on Hardbody.com. :)

An update on my training and competition plans :)

So this year my keyword has been patience. Always a competitor I had the urge to jump right into the 2010 season and compete. Its fun and its what I love to do with my fitness passion so why not right? Well here is where logic stepped in and convinced me to formulate a NEW and BETTER game plan this season.

I have specific goals for myself on stage this year...mostly (and my husband hates when I say this) PROVE that I CAN BE competitive as an IFBB figure professional.

My journey from amateur to national to professional competitor was quick. I started out in this sport in 2007, turned pro by mid 2008, and then had a 'not-so-hot' competitive year in 2009. This brings us to 2010 and the game plan.

Game Plan Checklist
Step 1. Get healthy happy and balanced. This means making sure that although I love fitness that the rest of my life is also equally balanced.

Step 2. Ask for help. In the past all of my nutrition and training plans were formulated in the Martin house. While this does work for us it also creates lots of unnecessary stress (which is not good for following Step 1). This leads me to announce that I have happily started training with the fabulous Mr. Kim Oddo (www.bodybyo.com) this past May. Phew, such a relief to have some help :)

Step 3. Train my booty off! Possibly literally, lol. Its been FUN and Tough and Challenging but I am loving it and following it 100%!!

Step 4. Check in on Step 1 & 3.

Step 5. Compete already!

Here is what I have planned:
October 30th - IFBB Border States Pro Figure in San Diego, CA
www.lindsayproductions.com

November 13th - IFBB KentuckyMuscle Pro Figure Championships in Louisville, KY www.kentuckymuscle.com

Alright, that's it in a nutshell! Steps 1-5, here I come!!

Big props to show promoter Tim Mobley! The Indianapolis NPC (www.npcindianapolis.com) that took place Saturday June 12th was an incredible success. This years show had a record number of competitors and included the addition of the bikini division.

With such a great turnout I am super excited for the Indiana State Championships set to take place July 31st. Details here (www.npcindiana.org).

Here are a couple pictures from the event...

(pictured me, Keisha Smith, Alicia Harris, Jessica Wright)

Note: If you're reading this at the old link, my blog is now located at blog.amyleemartin.com. :)

So what are some of the benefits to improving your flexibility?

~ A greater range of flexibility in your muscles can enhance your daily performance. Some examples include reaching down to tie your shoes or lifting your children up for a hug. If you are using your body for motion, flexibility will improve that motion.

~ Getting flexible and staying that way will also improve joint health. Why is this important? When your joints 'feel good' you are more apt to be mobile and active. Staying active keeps us strong and prevents injuries (especially important as we age).

~ Flexibility encourages healthy blood flow and circulation. After a long exercise routine your muscles are fatigued. Tired muscles need less recovery time when they are receiving optimal levels of blood flow and have good circulation.

~ The act of stretching to create flexibility relaxes tense muscles which can relieve stress. Less stress is always a benefit.

Start stretching and improve your flexibility. Here are a few examples of simple static stretches:

Seated Hamstring: Sitting down straighten your legs, and reach for your toes. This can be performed with both legs straight or one-leg straight while the other is tucked into your body. Your goal is to eventually touch your head to your knees. Tip: Keep a slight bend in your knees to prevent injury.

Runners Stretch: Lunging forward extend one leg backwards and lunge. Beginners place your hands on your front knee for support. Want a more advanced stretch? Place your hands on the floor.

Stretch Tall with Side Bend: Stand tall, interlock hands, straighten arms, turn your palms facing up, and reach to the sky. Hold for 30 seconds. Maintain your position and slowly bend to one side hold (30 sec hold) and then the other (30 sec hold).

Standing Quad: Make sure you have a nearby wall or stationary object for balance. Stand tall, grasping your ankle or foot, and pull to rear end.
Standing Triceps: Stand tall and place your elbow in your hand. Slowly raise this position until your arm is extended up and over your head. Tip: Keep your shoulders relaxed and away from your ears. Repeat on each side.

Standing Shoulder: Stand tall, bring a straightened arm across your chest, and hold with opposite arm at the elbow. Repeat on each side.

As you add post exercise stretching into your routine, be careful and listen to your body. Focus on pain free stretching, lessoning the stretch if you feel any uncomfortable tension. Do not bounce to stretch further, instead work your way up to your desired level. It takes time to lengthen your muscles safely.

*Static Stretching: Focuses on stretching a muscle at a fixed position for a period of time and repetitions. Each stretch should last approximately 30 seconds to one minute and be performed three to four repetitions each.

*Bonus Tip: Make the most 'flexible' progress by performing static stretching just following your workout when your body is warmed up.

Via www.hungry-girl.com

If something seems too good to be true, it often is. "I Can't Believe It's Not Butter" spray has ZERO calories if you use just a few spritzes. However, if you do what most of us do and spray like there's no tomorrow, you can rack up calories and fat grams pretty quickly. Here's the scoop: 12.5 sprays is 10 calories and 1 gram of fat, 25 sprays (1 teaspoon) is 20 calories and 2 grams of fat and 37.5 sprays is 30 calories and 3 grams of fat. In case you're curious, the entire bottle contains 900 calories and 90 grams of fat! YIKES! Obviously, when it comes to this stuff, stick with spraying as opposed to pouring.