Do I Suffer From Post-Competition Blues?

Have you recently participated in a bodybuilding competition?

Do you feel mentally and physically exhausted?

Do you feel depressed?

Do you feel frustrated?

Do you feel unmotivated?

Do you try really hard to keep that competition look afterwards?

Based on your answers, it is unlikely that you suffer from post-competition blues. Post-competition blues is a serious problem and can happen to anyone after a bodybuilding competition. Many athletes go into their first competition not even being aware of it. After a competition, your body will naturally drift away from that ‘perfect physique’, which one, of course, cannot maintain forever. Symptoms of post-competition blues include feeling depressed, exhausted, unmotivated, and frustrated.

Based on your answers you may be displaying some signs related to post-competition blues. Post-competition blues can happen to any competitor after a bodybuilding competition, especially after the first one. It takes time for your body (and mind) to return to its ‘normal’ stage when it comes to hormones, strength, and energy. Competitors are known for being hard on themselves, but now you just need to be good to yourself and let the natural changes occur. Don’t be afraid to take extra rest days to improve your recovery, your body needs it! In case you don’t experience any negative symptoms after your competition, there may be no reason to worry. Relax and enjoy!

Unfortunately, you are displaying the symptoms typically seen among competitors who suffer from post-competition blues. A body building competition is exciting, but the depression-like funk that occurs just after it’s over, can be unexpected for some. You may suddenly feel depressed, unmotivated, and frustrated that you can’t keep that ‘perfect physique’ forever. Remember that you are not alone in this, many Olympia champions have struggled with post-competition depression. Don’t stress about it and be kind to yourself. At this point, it’s completely normal to feel ‘abnormal’. With time, you will feel like yourself again!