WARRIORS CORNER – JOCELYN MCMILLIAN

I became interested in competing because I wanted to something to challenge myself.  I didn’t want to be skinny fat anymore and I was sick of wearing a damn Spanx!

I did my research before I made the decision to compete and a simple Google search brought me to TEAM Warrior Within! Team Warrior Within stood out to me. I felt a sense of family after reading their website and David Johnson was a straight up, non-sugar-coating, tell-you –how-it-is type of dude! I loved that! So I knew his wife had to be a badass as well. Nikki Johnston did my prep for two shows and I can honestly say that it was the best decision I made in regards to my fitness journey.

Working with Nikki was AMAZING!! She is so attentive to her clients’ needs and she cares. It’s very important to have a coach who cares about your wellbeing. I’ve heard so many horror stories about bikini girls having horrible coaches. Nikki prepped me for both my comps and she made sure that my nutrition was on point each time. I was able to grace the stage with confidence knowing that my coach prepared me with a great package. I honestly couldn’t have chosen a better coach. Thanks Nikki!

The hardest part of prep was the food, hands down. Not being able to grab an Oreo (or two or three), having the discipline not to eat three tablespoons of peanut butter instead of one, is incredibly difficult. I don’t think people realize once you began a REAL fitness journey your perspective on food changes drastically. You instantly become a foodie and the Food Network becomes your BFF!

My motivation during prep comes from the numerous inboxes and messages I received from people telling me that I inspire and have inspired them to work out; seeing my teenage son ask to attend the gym with me and his willingness to ask questions about what healthy foods to eat. Each one drives me to get out of bed at 3am to train.

I would tell anyone who’s thinking about competing to do your research first, make sure you’re choosing a reputable coach and team, attend a few shows, and talk to other competitors so you get a sense of what it’s like to compete because it’s NOT easy! You have to mentally prepare yourself first. Once you train your mind, you can then train your body.

During my contest prep, I learned to never underestimate myself and sell myself short. Prep taught me that I was mentally and physically stronger than I ever thought I was or could be.

My plans going forward are to get better every time I step on that stage and continue to inspire anyone out there who thinks that they can’t do it because I’m a living testimony that they can.