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Welcome back to the Beyond Condition Podcast with me, Sarah Parker and today's guest Gina Cavaliero.

In this episode, we're answering some of the most common questions we get as female bodybuilders and coaches - covering everything from training and lifestyle to misconceptions about the sport.

Female bodybuilding often comes with curiosity, assumptions, and misunderstandings, so this episode is a chance to give honest insight into what it’s really like behind the scenes.

In this episode, we talk about:

• Answers to common questions we get as a female bodybuilders and coaches
• Steroid use as a competitive female bodybuilders
• Misconceptions about women in bodybuilding
• Training, discipline, and daily structure
• Lifestyle challenges and sacrifices
• The reality of competing and off-season life
• Mental and emotional aspects of the sport
• How female bodybuilding is often misunderstood
• Life after competing

Whether you’re new to bodybuilding or already part of the bodybuilding world, this episode gives a more personal look at what the lifestyle actually involves.

Find Gina on Instagram @ginacavaliero @coachginacavaliero

Watch the episode here: https://youtu.be/N5IBi7SqxMQ

Find Sarah on Instagram: @sarahparker_bb

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Welcome Back to The Beyond Condition Podcast for a Solo Episode.

A lot of bodybuilders obsess over growing and dieting - but a sometimes overlooked secret to long-term progress is mastering maintenance. In this episode, I break down what a true maintenance phase looks like, how to set calories and macros, and why 'holding the line' can be your most productive block of the year.

Discussions Include:

• Defining maintenance: performance-stable calories, bodyweight ranges, biofeedback markers
• How to find your maintenance intake
• Training during maintenance: Fuelling enough to yield training performance
• Using maintenance to resensitise to volume and nutrition for your next growth phase or diet
• Managing hunger, NEAT, sleep, and stress without the mental load of a deficit or surplus
• Why you can still recomposition at 'maintenance'
• Lifestyle wins: social flexibility, travel, deloads, and shaping sustainable habits

Whether you’re coming off a diet, needing to step back during a growth phase, or just need a physiological and psychological reset, this episode gives you a practical playbook for turning maintenance into momentum.

S x

Watch the episode here: https://youtu.be/Rqx4wixeIr8

Find Sarah on Instagram: @sarahparker_bb

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Welcome Back to The Beyond Condition Podcast with Sarah and Romana.

Romana shares her current scenario, 'What's the Point in Dieting?'

This episode explores what it feels like to diet without the goal of stage, usual Sarah and Romana musings and ways to adapt as a competitive bodybuilder.

We hope that offering valuable real life anecdote brings you a deeper understanding into the topics discussed.

Discussions Include:

• Jaw clenching and tension
• Effects of dieting to mood, energy and communication
• Testosterone replacement
• Manipulations to facilitate a deficit
• Self awareness
• Cardio and step considerations
• Dealing with injuries and pain
• Realistic planning
• The importance of sleep
• Stimulant use
• Addiction and withdrawal
• Wanting to stay lean
• Peak week
• The difference between mini cuts and prep
• Off plan and restriction
• Guest posing
• Show day timings

Find Romana on Instagram @romana.skotzen_ifbbpro

Watch the episode here: https://youtu.be/BnDQS3swAIM

Find Sarah on Instagram: @sarahparker_bb

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Sarah welcomes Sibel Osman back to The Beyond Condition Podcast.

For this special episode, here are some words from Sibel herself; Our beautiful sport is one that both myself and Matthew Ali grew up in and have always known it to be inclusive, in fact one of the most endearing aspects of our sport is the fact that it is so inclusive, be it age or disability. Upholding the values and the ethos of bodybuilding is something that both myself and Matt have worked very hard to pioneer wherever and whenever we can. It is all too easy to get lost in the ‘mainstream’ and follow trends and crowds of the ‘new generation’ and forget the cornerstones of what made this sport great and celebrate ALL athletes from all walks of life that endure every day to live and breathe it.

We as able-bodied athletes often take for granted the privilege and blessings we have, being able to get up with ease and carry out our everyday tasks as an athlete and yet some still find something to complain about.

Unless you are either directly affected, know or have a loved one that is disabled/disabled athlete, it is easy to overlook how easy able-bodied athletes have it. The real superheroes of our sport are our disabled brothers and sisters who get up every day in the face of great adversity, go to the gym and function, perform, prep, bulk and work like true soldiers to achieve what can only be described as remarkable, and create physiques that are frankly mind blowing. The fact that we have disability categories in our sport is incredible and I commend and thank EVERY federation that is inclusive enough to have a disability category. This proves just how wonderful our sport is, however, we (myself and Matt) want to take this further and build on that. Creating a Disability Pro League, the first of its kind in the world, is something that we believe is a long time coming and nothing short of deserved. These incredible inspiring athletes are in a league of their own and deserve A LEAGUE of their own, a Super Pro league to celebrate their excellence and allow them a platform and an avenue to achieve their greatness and take their athletic prowess as far as they wish to go.

We will work extremely hard to create opportunities and rewards for all of these incredible athletes and ensure that they know and feel that this sport belongs to them EQUALLY. If you get up everyday and live the life of a bodybuilder, you train to a targeted plan, eat a specific diet, have a prep coach, check in, go off season, prep, compete…..the list goes on….you ARE a bodybuilder and should have all the opportunities afforded to you that able bodied athletes have.

Bodybuilding is built on values that promote and teach resilience, consistency and to Never Give Up! To build physiques that are way above the norm and visually represent the sheer heart and work that has gone into building a body that is a work of art. Nothing is more demonstrative of these core values than our disabled athletes who are a testament to the work ethic and the fire that champion mindsets and bodies are built from.

To be able to work on building this sector of our sport is one of the projects that truly means a lot to us. We must all embrace change as progression in all things is important, provided that the change is progressive and for the greater good. I think we have all had our fill of recent negativity and poor communication within the sport and it is time that something new and good was introduced to give our athletes a new lease of life and love for our sport.

We welcome all the support that you can afford us and the incredible athletes as we build this sector in the coming year.

Thank you for listening.

Find Sibel and the federations mentioned on Instagram: @sopro1000 @acpukofficial @ibfa_uk

Watch the episode here: https://youtu.be/nF-wGAPJhug

Find Sarah on Instagram: @sarahparker_bb

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Sarah Welcomes Melanie Horton to The Beyond Condition Podcast.

In today’s episode, we delve into Melanie’s remarkable journey, which spans over three decades in the world of bodybuilding.

Melanie serves as a positive role model within the bodybuilding community, both in competitive settings and for those seeking lifestyle improvements. At 61, she embodies the principles of discipline and longevity.

What to Expect

The Benefits of Weight Training: We explore the fundamentals of bodybuilding, covering essential topics such as training, nutrition, and recovery. Our discussions emphasise the significance of weight training and the potential to progress as you navigate your competitive journey.

History of Female Bodybuilding: Melanie reflects on her experiences throughout the years, sharing memorable show stories, valuable lessons learned, and a reminder to enjoy the journey!

Discussions Include:

• Social media
• Melanie’s story
• Identity including roles within the bodybuilding world
• ‘Balance’ in bodybuilding
• Experiencing and understanding the different phases of bodybuilding
• Off season and flexibility
• Age and longevity
• Female and male age considerations in competitive bodybuilding
• Gaining muscle
• The importance of training including intention and execution
• Positive role models
• Retirement from stage
• Representing female bodybuilding
• Your relationship with food
• Foundations of bodybuilding and the benefits
• The importance of rest and recovery
• Rehabilitation from surgery
• Mindset
• Comparison and supporting others
• Show day and being on stage including preparation for your show

Find Melanie Horton on Instagram @ifbbpro_minimel

Watch the episode here: https://youtu.be/OYVXakrzHTo

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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Welcome Back to The Beyond Condition Podcast for a Solo Episode.

What is True Burnout?

In this episode, we delve into an important topic: how can bodybuilders distinguish between fatigue from their bodybuilding lifestyle and true burnout?

True burnout is a personal experience, and various factors can contribute to its onset. I'll share insights on recognising the signs that may lead to burnout.

Does Self-Awareness Matter?

We often know ourselves better than anyone else. One common indicator of impending burnout is feeling emotionally detached from both yourself and those around you.

Topics Covered:

• Defining burnout
• Similarities between competition prep and burnout
• Understanding fatigue in bodybuilding
• Stress accumulation and its management
• Recognising signs and symptoms of burnout
• The essential principles of bodybuilding
• The significance of sleep, including routines and hygiene
• The extremes of bodybuilding during both prep and off-season
• Common sleep disturbances for bodybuilders
• The role of self-awareness and emotional intelligence
• Recoverable training volume
• Engaging in parasympathetic activities
• Mental health considerations
• Physical stressors, including training and PED use
• Importance of structure and routine
• Setting realistic expectations as a bodybuilder
• Effective communication with your coach
• Personal life factors contributing to burnout
• The value of therapy and support networks

Thank you for tuning in; I hope you find valuable insights in this episode.

S x

Watch the episode here: https://youtu.be/jQ8zBlDu1EQ

Find Sarah on Instagram: @sarahparker_bb

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Sarah Welcomes Anastasia Korableva to the Beyond Condition Podcast.

In today's episode, you'll get to explore Anastasia Korableva's journey as a WBB IFBB Pro. Renowned for her distinctive style and viewpoints as a female bodybuilder, Korableva remains authentically true to herself.

You will gain valuable insights into her ambitions as a competitive bodybuilder, her approach to conflict resolution, and the motivations that drive her to excel in her field.

What to Expect

Authenticity: Anastasia Korableva emphasises the significance of being true to oneself, both as a muscular woman and as a person.

Dealing with Conflict: Learn from Anastasia Korableva's personal anecdotes and advice on overcoming negativity and fostering a positive mindset.

Discussions Include:

• Authenticity and femininity
• Anastasia's story
• Building muscle as a female
• Male and female adversity including promotion of equality
• Dealing with conflict
• Side effects from PED's
• Falling in love with bodybuilding
• The benefits of schedule and structure
• Self belief
• Show day and stage performance including backstage experience
• Coach relationship including coach 'hopping'
• The demands of competitive bodybuilding including off season priorities
• The importance of training
• External pressure and boundaries
• Korableva's Olympia dream
• Training advice

Find Anastasia Korableva on Instagram @korableva_ifbb_pro

Watch the episode here: https://youtu.be/RbkVNl6tLvU

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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Welcome Back to The Beyond Condition Podcast for a Solo Episode.

I’m certain I’m not the only one who experiences a wide range of emotions after prep, which can sometimes be difficult to comprehend.

I decided to create this episode to delve into the feelings you may encounter, while also sharing insights from my personal journey.

Topics Covered:

• Both Natural and Assisted Competitive Bodybuilding Can Be Considered ‘Extreme’

When examining the extent to which you push yourself during prep, several factors contribute to the label of ‘Extreme’. Considerations include the length and duration of your prep, the influences of natural and assisted methods, and the number of competitions you participate in during a season.

• Post-Show Experiences Vary for Everyone

There’s a lot to consider regarding how you might feel both mentally and physically after a show and season.

Whether you’re a first-timer or a experienced competitor, it’s uncommon for any post-show experience to be identical. Reactions to food after the event can range from feeling overwhelmed and facing decision fatigue to instances of overeating and binge-eating.

• The Importance of Structure and Routine After a Show or Season

Having a structured plan can be beneficial after a show or season. Establishing a reverse out strategy is wise, whether it's a simple outline or detailed daily planning.

Effective Communication: It's essential to communicate clearly with those around you. The approach you take will vary based on your relationships.

Honesty Matters: Being open about your feelings is crucial, even though it may not always be easy.

• The Importance of Boundaries After a Show or Season

Establishing boundaries after a show or season is crucial. It's common for our loved ones to express their care through gestures, which may include food and treats.

The period following preparation is often a time when we can indulge in these treats. To make the most of this opportunity, consider structuring your enjoyment around foods that you love.

I hope you enjoy and learn by listening to this episode.

S x

Watch the episode here: https://youtu.be/0UIMN9RItsE

Find Sarah on Instagram: @sarahparker_bb

THE ULTIMATE SHOW DAY GUIDE E-BOOK: Purchase here

Beyond Condition Coaching Application: Click here