Nic’s journey to physique competing

When I pressed “send” on my first email to Kat back in 2010, I had no idea what the outcome would be. I initially contacted her with a view to doing one of her 8-week body recomposition programmes (my story is here). I somehow knew from reading her blog posts that she was the right coach for me, even though I’d never met her. I was right.

Not only did she whip me into shape in those 8 short weeks, but she sowed the seeds which would become one of the most exciting and rewarding adventures of my life: competing in a bodybuilding contest.

Kat suggested I compete but didn’t push me. However, once I’d decided to give it a go, she was the most supportive, enthusiastic and caring coach I could wish for. As anyone who has prepped for a bodybuilding show will tell you, the journey was long, challenging and – at times – incredibly hard. I would not have wanted anyone other than Kat in my corner.

She did all the things you’d expect of a coach – sent me meal plans and training programmes, reviewed my food diaries and kept in touch by email, phone, Skype and in person when our diaries allowed. But she gives so much more of herself than that. I’m concerned I won’t remember or be able to put half of in to words.

Let’s try: well-timed texts when I was feeling my lowest. An incredible amount of resources, research and guidance. Detailed information about how to prep for my show and conduct myself on the day itself. Help with bikini choices, posing, my routine. Hours and hours of her time. Support and understanding through the most hilarious times and through the tears. At times, I felt Kat was the only person who truly understood what I was going through – and perhaps she was. As a competitor herself, she’s been there, and it was wonderful to know that I had someone on hand who could answer any question I threw at her, or simply know exactly the right thing to say.

I now consider Kat one of my closest friends. But that’s not what this is about, this is about Kat as a PT and a coach. And for that, you need to hear the results of our coaching relationship.

We started working together – with the goal of me competing for the first time – in November 2010. In July 2011, I stepped on stage at the BNBF (British Natural Bodybuilding Federation) Welsh Championships. It was my first show. I’d never even been to spectate at a bodybuilding competition before.

I left that day with not one, but two enormous trophies. I’d won my class (Physique) and I’d won the Best Presentation trophy for women. I’d also qualified for the BNBF British Finals, where there is a Pro Card on offer to the winner of my class. (If you’re interested, you can read my write up of the day on my blog – The Fit Writer).

I did the hard work, but I wouldn’t have known where to start (or carry on, or end!) without Kat. It’s as simple as that. At least half of my success – and my trophies – belong to her. She gave me the guidance, support, education, training, motivation, accoutability and so much more. All I did was do what she told me to do.

If you want to train for your first Figure, Physique or bodybuilding competition – or if you have already competed and are looking for a new coach – I can not recommend Kat Millar highly enough to you. Just get in touch with her. I’m so glad I did!

Nicola Millichip (competing as Nicola Joyce).