Why I'm Not Competing

Happy Friday!

If you have been reading my blog regularly, you will know that I was prepping for a show coming up in May in Kelowna - The Western Canadians, which is a natural/tested show and a B.C's qualifier.
I competed in the show last year but did not place, and move on the B.C's like I wanted to.
My plan was to switch back to Bikini from Figure and hopefully qualify for B.C's and nationals in the summer.

I have been going back and forth between the idea, and I finally decided yesterday that I cannot complete my prep for the show, which is in 15 weeks. I made a couple tweets about it last night briefly, but wanted to give a more detailed explanation of why I've chosen not to compete in the Spring.

With my recent surgery, I am not able to train hard or intensely. The show is in 15 weeks and I was just released for light aerobic exercise. Some walking on the treadmill and bike. No elliptical or heavy starimaster workouts that I enjoy (yet). I am not able to do any plyometrics, or any heavy circuit training that requires me to jump around.
Yes....I knew this going into the surgery. No, I didn't think it would affect me as it has, some days I feel pretty bummed out!
This weekend I will be going back into the gym for some light lower body exercises, some body weight lunges, squats etc! And I am pretty excited for that :)

I also feel that I have not made the improvements that I wanted to make for my return to the bikini stage. I wanted to come back with some major changes, and in all honesty, I have not made those changes.
I wanted stronger glutes, and a great ham/glute tie-in.
I wanted to work on my shoulders, and create a beautiful shoulder cap.
I also wanted to work on my triceps (my absolute weakest area)

I believe I still have alot of work ahead of me, and in my heart, mind and body I feel this is the right decision for me.
I have chosen to take a longer off-season and compete in November at the Sandra Wickham.
This is still a qualifier for BC's and Nationals, and if I do qualify, I will have tons of time to prep for BC's in June 2014.
My coach, Breanne Seward is so supportive and caring and is by my side 100%, and I thank her for that. :)

I am kind of disappointed, but I am looking out for my health and body and well-being first and foremost.
I am very excited for a longer off season, and to make the improvements I want to make.
I will still be attending the show to cheer on my friends and be there for support! I also want to extend a hand to anyone that needs it! Whether it's applying tanner, a shoulder to lean on, or a cardio buddy once in awhile, I'm your girl!

I am off to Mexico soon, and can't wait for that! Much needed vacation in the sun <3
I hope you all continue to follow my blog in my off-season and watch my improvements and progress.

xoxo
Andrea