2008 IFBB North Americans - Jennie Hamilton
I just received some two-weeks out pictures from from the always positive Jennie Hamilton. This is Jennie’s first crack at a National-level show and it will be her only one this year, due to the fact that as a US resident, yet Canadian citizen, she is only permitted to do one National show per year (outside of the CBBF shows).
Jen has made some great improvements in the last year - probably the most notable improvement in development is in her shoulders - a key muscle to have fully developed when you’re competing. Add to that, the fact that she’s on pace to far surpass her previous best condition.
Here’s some pictures.



We’re in the countdown. Great work Jennie.
And I’ll close off with a little nutritional wisdom from Jen.
Question:
Is it true that the only reason women get into figure competitions is for the after show meals?
Answer:
No. at least not for me. Sure the after show meal is yummy after weeks of dieting. I don’t ever eat fried food or stuff like that anyways even after a show. A good quality steak meal and dessert, and of course my dark chocolate reese pb cups. I think that those who get caught up during prep with FOOD - what they can and cannot have - and put too much focus on that, make it harder for themselves. I actually enjoy everything I eat for my prep, and while the portions aren’t large I’m happy with what I am eating. I don’t suffer from cravings or stuff. I know, call me weird. Nutrition is important to me so I’m not one that goes crazy after the competition is all over and gain a ton. It drives me crazy to see those girls that constantly talk about how torturous their diet is, how they caved in to cravings, etc. Diet IMO, is simply a tool we use to get us into competition condition; it is not the basis of why someone should compete or be the stronghold over prep. The mind needs to be prepared just as much. It’s a problem with not only competitors in general but society today having an addiction problem to food - people have forgotten the purpose of food - nutrition for our bodies. I believe if people would take the constant torturous focus OFF the food they cannot eat or day dreaming of bad stuff, there would be far less stress all around.
I love food. Yes, it’s very enjoyable, offers a sense of satisfaction, creativity in preparation of food, celebrations, etc. I guess the entire point of this ramble (coffee must have kicked in - hahaha) is that no, my focus is not on the food.
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August 15th, 2008 at 2:27 pm
AWESOME STUFF from Jennie herself, to her positive outlook, great nutrition mentality and the best coach.
August 15th, 2008 at 2:45 pm
Cindy said it- best coach!!!!
THANK YOU ERIK!!! 2 weeks til we take Cleveland by storm!!!! muwahaha
August 15th, 2008 at 3:14 pm
Erik - thanks for posting. Jen - you look amazing! I’m so excited to be competing with you, and can’t wait to see the final package live and in person! Your muscle maturity is excellent - you look so nice and full. And your attitude is contagious - it has really helped me stay upbeat during this entire process. Get’m girl!
August 15th, 2008 at 3:41 pm
You look awesome!! I can so relate to the points you made about food. It hasnt been a focus but a fuel. I too am creative with my meals and dont really feel im missing much, it sure has helped a lot.
Rock the stage Jen..
August 15th, 2008 at 4:05 pm
Glad this made it to the blog- such a great post! I think Jennie and Noel have the “food mindset” of a champion. I strive for it myself. Thanks for teaching us the proper ways to view and enjoy food (including contest prep food).
August 16th, 2008 at 6:31 am
Amazing Jen! Thanks for sharing your champion mindset on food. I find sometimes I start to focus on it too much. Your points put nutrition into perspective. Good luck at the show!
August 17th, 2008 at 6:51 am
Jennie’s attitude is contagious. I love to visit her journal to read her posts and postive mindset. Looking Awesome Jennie
August 26th, 2008 at 7:07 am
Jen,
you look awesome! I was just thinking about you the other day because I used to post on Extreme Physique and since I haven’t been on there I didn’t know what you were up to. You have made some major gains!! Great job! Best of luck at the show.
September 8th, 2008 at 6:31 pm
Jen! It’s been so long…When I see these photos of you now I think back to the early ironmagforums days (I think it was 6-7 years ago now!) and your progress is staggering. You’ve never looked better!
So glad to see how well you’re doing. Hope life’s being kind to you.
-Hilary (nikegurl)