✨ First-Time Competitor Guide: What to Expect Show Weekend - PART 3✨
AFTER THE SHOW
Competitors often prepare extensively for stepping onstage—but not always for what happens once the show is over.
After months of structure, focus and anticipation, the transition out of competition mode can feel exciting, emotional and sometimes a little overwhelming. Your body may be tired, your appetite may feel unpredictable and your mind may immediately begin replaying every moment from the day.
Give yourself permission to celebrate & be present before you start analyzing.
Enjoy your post-show meal, take photos, spend time with the people who supported you and recognize everything you accomplished throughout the process. One placing or one moment onstage does not tell the full story of your preparation or progress. Especially for those of you who plan on going on to compete again this season, every show is a clean slate and one placing has no effect on the next show’s placing.
A few important post-show reminders:
Rehydrate gradually and continue following the plan provided by your coach to reverse out of your show (or into the next one)
Avoid turning one celebratory meal into an entire weekend of eating until you feel uncomfortable
Do not make emotional decisions about your physique, future competitions or coaching immediately after the show
Allow your body time to rest and recover
Write down what you learned while the experience is still fresh
Be proud of yourself—regardless of the outcome
Post-show feedback can be incredibly valuable, but it is most helpful when received with an open and objective mindset. Feedback is simply information that can help guide your next steps. It is not a judgment of your worth, potential or the significance of what you accomplished.
SUNDAY
BEYOND THE STAGE BRUNCH
This year, for the first time in the history of bodybuilding, a post-show experience: the Beyond the Stage Brunch, will be held Sunday morning at Top Note, the rooftop restaurant located at the Host Hotel.
Rather than ending the weekend when the final awards are presented, this brunch gives female competitors, coaches and aspiring athletes an opportunity to come together the following morning, reflect on the experience and learn directly from members of our judging panel & other IFBB Pro athletes.
Doors will open at 9:45 a.m. for registered guests to arrive, grab a plate and enjoy the healthy options we have intentionally selected for the event.
Because many competitors will celebrate with a larger meal immediately following the show Saturday night, most are ready to return to a little more balance by Sunday morning. The brunch menu will include grilled chicken, salmon, jasmine rice, roasted red potatoes, fresh summer salad, vegetables and a few breakfast options, including eggs, toast and fruit.
Since this hotel offers FREE breakfast starting at 6:30/7am, we decided that primarily lunch items would be a better fit.
This will be an intimate and relaxed setting where you can:
Hear directly from the judges about what they observed throughout the show
Gain a better understanding of judging criteria and how decisions are made through scoring
Ask questions that may help you process your experience
Connect with other competitors, coaches and women in the sport
Learn how to move forward in a healthy and productive way after the competition
This is not intended to be a formal critique session for each individual athlete. Instead, it is an educational conversation designed to provide greater insight into the judging process, common strengths and areas for improvement seen throughout the weekend.
Capacity is intentionally limited to create space for meaningful conversations and genuine connection. Attendance is reserved for female competitors, female coaches and aspiring female athletes. We encourage reserving your spot as soon as possible as we will likely sell out before we get to show day.
OPTIMIZE U RECOVERY LOUNGE
Optimize U will also host a Recovery Lounge in a private hotel suite located on the same level as the brunch.
Whether or not you are attending the brunch, IV therapy will be available to competitors, family members, friends and anyone visiting Nashville for the Fit Show. It is also a great option for significant others or guests who are unable to attend the brunch due to its limited capacity.
We have partnered with Optimize U to offer three IV therapy options at a significantly discounted rate when pre-booked by Friday, August 14.
CLICK HERE for IV options, pricing and booking information.
Whether you spend Sunday learning at the brunch, recovering in the Optimize U suite or simply enjoying Nashville with your family, try not to rush through the final part of the weekend. Take time to reflect, celebrate and appreciate the people and experiences that helped you reach the stage.
IMPORTANT SHOW-WEEKEND LINKS
Show-weekend information can occasionally change as we get closer to the event. Use the links below to access the most current details, updates and registration information.
Official Show Schedule
View athlete check-in times, prejudging, finals and other important weekend details.
Tickets, Livestream Access, Venue, & Parking
Purchase tickets for prejudging, finals or both portions of the competition.
Beyond the Stage Brunch
Learn more about Sunday’s post-show brunch, guest eligibility and registration.
Optimize U Recovery Lounge
Explore the discounted IV therapy options available Sunday morning and reserve an appointment.
Athlete Information & Final Updates
Review athlete communications, show-day instructions and any last-minute announcements that will be emailed out by Wednesday, August 12.
We strongly recommend bookmarking this page and checking your email throughout show week so you do not miss any important updates.
We cannot wait to welcome you to Nashville and celebrate everything you have worked so hard to accomplish. Come prepared, stay present and make the most of every part of the weekend—because it will go by faster than you expect!
