by Russ Yeager from Fitness Together, 07/01/09

I’m sure you have seen the numerous ‘Before and After’ physique transformation pictures in the bodybuilding and fitness magazines and on the Internet. You have probably even wondered if it is really possible to make such a dramatic change in only a few short months. I had my doubts as well; that is until I became one of those people in the magazines! That’s right, I was named 18-35 year old class champion in the AST Sports Science World Championships physique transformation contest.

How did I do it?  Let me tell you first that it took much more than a “magic supplement” and a good photographer.  It was the most dedicated and disciplined 13 weeks of my life, but it was all well worth it when I was able to finally succeed in building the type of body I have always dreamed of! Would you like to do the same? With the right tools, information, motivation, and dedication, you absolutely can!

1) Have a Reason Why

Before you embark on something as dramatic as a total physique transformation you have to have a very good reason “why” you are doing this. If not, there is simply NO WAY you will stick to your plans and reach your goal. Period! The reason can be to win a physique transformation contest, a bodybuilding contest, or to make your ex’s head spin when you see him or her at your reunion.

2) Motivation

Motivation along with the reason why you are working, work together synergistically. It’s great to have a reason why, but it’s important that you generate the type of motivation necessary to make sure you follow through by doing what you are supposed to do. Motivation is the reason that great ideas are turned into great accomplishments.

3) Have a Deadline

In order to make a significant physique transformation you MUST have a clear starting date and end date. Trust me on this one! You don’t necessarily have to compete in a contest, but without a clear deadline it is way to easy to get off track. Without a deadline it becomes much easier to have the piece of pizza or cheesecake at dinner.

4) Keep a Training Journal

A training journal is a very valuable tool during any health and fitness program. It allows you to accurately track your progress, but more importantly, holds you personally accountable for everything you do or don’t do. Write about how you felt that day or a particular challenge you overcame.

5) Controlling Calories

To make a truly amazing physique transformation you need to be very lean so that your body is not camouflaged by body fat. There are 101 different diets that will allow you to lose body fat and reach your goals, but the bottom line is that in order to lose fat you absolutely must consume fewer calories than you burn on average every day, every week, and every month.

Russ Yeager is owner of Fitness Together Norcross, Alpharetta, and Dunwoody and internationally recognized health and fitness expert. To learn more about Fitness Together’s unique “One Client, One Trainer, One Goal” approach to fitness visit www.AtlantaFitness.net.