Natural Bodybuilding
The International Natural Bodybuilding & Fitness Federation (INBF) is an American organization but it just expanded to Canada last spring. The first ever Canadian show was held in Edmonton at the University of Alberta, and that was my introduction to actual figure competition. I earned my pro card, which allows me to compete professionally in natural bodybuilding competitions.
The event was exciting, very nerve-wracking. The training itself up to the competition is quite intense. It takes a lot out of a person. It involves a strict diet and a rigorous workout schedule.
The actual day of competition you're up early, prepping your body for your time on stage. The competition I do, figure, is a bit more feminine than traditional bodybuilding. I do 4 quarter-turn poses; the way you hold yourself and the way you turn is what makes the posing distinct. After posing, you go back stage and then it’s a matter of waiting for the results.
I originally got into it through regular workouts after I graduated from the University of Alberta with a nursing degree. At first I was just doing it to stay healthy, but as time went on I wanted more of a challenge. So I started reading magazines and changing my routine a bit, which in turn challenged my body.
Eventually a friend encouraged me to get into competition, and I thought I might as well give it a shot since I was putting in all this effort. Once you start seeing your physique improve and become more toned and you start to see the definition...well, that just motivates you even more.
Where Next?
Aman Takhar
Aman Takhar is originally from B.C. and grew up in St. Albert. At the INBF competition in Edmonton in spring 2008, Aman placed first in the figure short competition and won overall.
