VERY new here!

[Bionicdork]

Okay, actually VERY new to fitness period!! I have always had a lingering dream of being in a figure competition, but for some reason, never thought I had the chops to do it. Well, I'm now 40 - a writer/stand-up comedian and feel like it's now or never. Time to get in shape and work towards my goal. I am an absolute newbie to everything, although I do a lot of reading on the subject and know the basics of building muscle, trimming fat, working out, etc. It is the implementing of those basics that I need to work on!! As it is now, without having my exact body composition, I would say that I'm 170lbs (size 12), 5'9" and about 40% body fat....I know, I know!! I am wondering if anyone else has made such a drastic change...from being doughy and out of shape to being in competition form. Any thoughts on where to begin? What's the most important aspect in beginning your fitness/health quest? I know there is a wealth of information to be found on this site and I do intend on reading every post, but if anyone has any specific tips, books, motivation or stories of their "before" and "after" transformation, I would really appreciate it.

Thanks so much.
Gina
Myspace.com/hatethesinlovethesinner

[wildstang]

first off you need to get a diet together and stick to it! then put as much cardio in it as you can and those are 2 of the main ingredients you need to start with.

[Italianangel]

Check out my journal, you can see me go from off to on season, off season I get doughy.......hahaha.
Also, a free Figure Basics eBook at lindacusmano.com in the download section will help you with beginner questions and planning covering on all subjects including diet and training.
Let me know if you have any questions!
Welcome to the group!
Linda

[Bionicdork]

Thanks! I joined your site earlier today and have found it really helpful and inspirational!! Thank you for the welcome!