2008 BodySpace Transformation Blog Contest

[teenyGreen]

Originally Posted by dvsness

Seriously? With all due respect, I think that quite sucks.

Originally Posted by bbcom_developer

Yeah, but we're really wanting to help jumpstart people who are just getting started on their journey, who need the extra motivation and help, not necessarily the person dialing it in for a show, who already knows the ropes and has the experience. Yes, this year's contest will be a little different from last years. And while I do agree all transformations are worthwhile and are great to showcase, we're just hoping to help out those who need it the most, that's all.

I don't expect everyone to agree, of course, so flame on!!! (J/K, grrrrr.)

That really sucks, because you guys made a huge mistake not including me last year. I know I would have beat Vanessa. This year I don't even qualify, because you are only considering people that are obese (35% bodyfat) wtf.

Originally Posted by deserusan

You should make a rule about steroids, clenbuterol, ephedrine, etc. Perhaps limit "usage" to what can be purchased on bodybuilding.com.

Good point, but I thought they did include the phrase only what can be purchased through bodybuilding.com in the contest rules. Wasn't the issue, it can't be proven what people take? They have to use the honor system.

[sbh2082]

Originally Posted by dvsness

It seems that you are penalizing/removing oportunity for those people who have maintained good health.

I'm gonna second that one! I mean I was 170-180 and a size 13 in womens from the time I was in 8th grade to my junior year in college, but have already made the huge strides to drop from there the last few years.

But I don't see why those cutting for a show or that need to only drop 4-8% should be penalized it ALL TAKES HARD WORK no matter what way you put it, so I think EVERYONE should be considered equally But that is also just my $.02 from the peanut gallery LOL!

[dvsness]

Originally Posted by teenyGreen

I know I would have beat Vanessa.

Are you ok?

Originally Posted by teenyGreen

Good point, but I thought they did include the phrase only what can be purchased through bodybuilding.com in the contest rules. Wasn't the issue, it can't be proven what people take? They have to use the honor system.

But it WAS proven... no matter, what's over cannot be undone.

[sbh2082]

Originally Posted by teenyGreen

That really sucks, because you guys made a huge mistake not including me last year. I know I would have beat Vanessa. This year I don't even qualify, because you are only considering people that are obese (35% bodyfat) wtf.



Good point, but I thought they did include the phrase only what can be purchased through bodybuilding.com in the contest rules. Wasn't the issue, it can't be proven what people take? They have to use the honor system.

WOW!!! Thats quite a statement! I think Vanessa busted her @$$ to get where she was an to win that contest! Whats even MORE impressive is what she's done since that though!

Thats why I don't think the contest should be limited to ONLY those that have a ton of bf% to drop or weight to lose...

[teenyGreen]

Originally Posted by sbh2082

WOW!!! Thats quite a statement! I think Vanessa busted her @$$ to get where she was an to win that contest! Whats even MORE impressive is what she's done since that though!

Thats why I don't think the contest should be limited to ONLY those that have a ton of bf% to drop or weight to lose...

I know she busted her ass. I was reading her blogs everyday and commenting. She did awesome. I just think had a greater transformation. I starting off fatter. No disrespect...If I was in last year, I think I would have won or at least come pretty close. I don't feel a need to prove it with my progress pics. That's not what my post is about too me. I'm just pissed they eliminated so many people from this years contest.

[misstransformer]

Originally Posted by bbcom_developer

We're hoping to foster a sense of teamwork and a supportive environment (rather than a competitive one).

Very much needed, as it will reap the greatest results both inside and out over time. Though I will not be entering, I'm sending support to all members who will. T

[nudavinci64]

I wish I would have entered this content this year. I went from 30+ to around 12% currently. Really hoping to get that down to 8% next year with a well rounded development. If you are considering people that are at this point I would be up for the challenge. It would be great motivation to bring it to the next level.

[Jumbo Rider]

I just wanted add to the hit parade for Daretosoar. Always positive and always checking in to see what is going on with me.

Like I said before, I would like to be considered for the contest, but no matter what happens I will reach my goals. There are so many great people on these boards, both super fit and super obese. I could recomend any on my friends list, but Daretosoar would be a star in this contest.

[Daretosoar]

Originally Posted by Jumbo Rider

I just wanted add to the hit parade for Daretosoar. Always positive and always checking in to see what is going on with me.

Like I said before, I would like to be considered for the contest, but no matter what happens I will reach my goals. There are so many great people on these boards, both super fit and super obese. I could recomend any on my friends list, but Daretosoar would be a star in this contest.

Thanks for the vote of confidence. I would have tough competition with you. You have been doing so wonderful.

[ChRiStINe85]

there shouldn't be any question in your minds whether or not i can do this... my first transformation i LEARNED A LOT from and this time im doing it for the final time! no more yo -yo dieting this is my lifestyle and im proud of it

i have already gone from 29% body fat to 19% body fat in 4 months time... 2008 is MY year and i am going to shine on that figure stage!

check out my recent befores..and even my transformation story from 2006

a simple search of my name : CHristine DObrocky proves im not only up for the challenge but regardless if i get chosen or not I will reach my goals no matter what!

[I_WNT_ABS!!!]

[QUOTE=teenyGreen;97158291]That really sucks, because you guys made a huge mistake not including me last year. I know I would have beat Vanessa. This year I don't even qualify, because you are only considering people that are obese (35% bodyfat) wtf.

[I_WNT_ABS!!!]

I think it is a little ridiculous that everyone is so upset about the entry guidelines for this year?s contest. Looking at the pages of some of the people that are complaining?the have competition pictures!!! You clearly already know what it takes to get your body exactly where you want it and have the will power to follow through. Look at some of the pics of the people that have struggled for years and years with weight and have not had that support or mental breakthrough that you must have had at some point. Those are the ones that NEED this the most. You just WANT this. Once again I vote for people like myself, Daretosoar, and Jumborider as this is more than a competition to showoff how good you already look.

[anti-bonk]

Originally Posted by I_WNT_ABS!!!

I think it is a little ridiculous that everyone is so upset about the entry guidelines for this year?s contest. Looking at the pages of some of the people that are complaining?the have competition pictures!!! You clearly already know what it takes to get your body exactly where you want it and have the will power to follow through. Look at some of the pics of the people that have struggled for years and years with weight and have not had that support or mental breakthrough that you must have had at some point. Those are the ones that NEED this the most. You just WANT this. Once again I vote for people like myself, Daretosoar, and Jumborider as this is more than a competition to showoff how good you already look.

Yeh, some guys at work were in a 5k race. They wouldn't let me sign up because I wanted to ride my bike. They said it had something to do with the intent of the race to be for people who were actually running. But I think they were just discriminationg against me because they knew I would beat them on my bike.

[Stonecoldtruth]

Originally Posted by teenyGreen

That really sucks, because you guys made a huge mistake not including me last year. I know I would have beat Vanessa. This year I don't even qualify, because you are only considering people that are obese (35% bodyfat) wtf.

No intended offense, but your attitude is a bit.. elitist. They are saying they want to help people transform their bodies and their life and you say 'that sucks' because you can't compete in that. You should be HAPPY for the body you've achieved and cheer those on who are striving for the same thing.

Like they said...

Originally Posted by bbcom_developer View Post
We're hoping to foster a sense of teamwork and a supportive environment (rather than a competitive one).

SCT

[sbh2082]

Originally Posted by I_WNT_ABS!!!

I think it is a little ridiculous that everyone is so upset about the entry guidelines for this year?s contest. Looking at the pages of some of the people that are complaining?the have competition pictures!!! You clearly already know what it takes to get your body exactly where you want it and have the will power to follow through. Look at some of the pics of the people that have struggled for years and years with weight and have not had that support or mental breakthrough that you must have had at some point. Those are the ones that NEED this the most. You just WANT this. Once again I vote for people like myself, Daretosoar, and Jumborider as this is more than a competition to showoff how good you already look.

^^^^Thats not necessarily a VERY fair statement either though, just because some of us have done competitions DOES not mean that we don't still have to bust our @$$ to stay in shape or to even get this way! As I previously stated I went from 170-175 to 130 but why should I have to eat like a pig and get fat over the next month JUST to be selected?!!

[Dedicatedforlife]

Originally Posted by I_WNT_ABS!!!

I think it is a little ridiculous that everyone is so upset about the entry guidelines for this year?s contest. Looking at the pages of some of the people that are complaining?the have competition pictures!!! You clearly already know what it takes to get your body exactly where you want it and have the will power to follow through. Look at some of the pics of the people that have struggled for years and years with weight and have not had that support or mental breakthrough that you must have had at some point. Those are the ones that NEED this the most. You just WANT this. Once again I vote for people like myself, Daretosoar, and Jumborider as this is more than a competition to showoff how good you already look.

Some people struggled the other way around buddy. I personally would love to step on stage, and a competition like this would motivate my ass to push as hard as I can.

[teenyGreen]

Originally Posted by I_WNT_ABS!!!

I think it is a little ridiculous that everyone is so upset about the entry guidelines for this year?s contest. Looking at the pages of some of the people that are complaining?the have competition pictures!!! You clearly already know what it takes to get your body exactly where you want it and have the will power to follow through. Look at some of the pics of the people that have struggled for years and years with weight and have not had that support or mental breakthrough that you must have had at some point. Those are the ones that NEED this the most. You just WANT this. Once again I vote for people like myself, Daretosoar, and Jumborider as this is more than a competition to showoff how good you already look.

Well, that's my opinion. I was 236 pounds. Do you think I lost that in 12 weeks? Is that a healthy goal to go from 35% bf to 15%? If you weigh 200 pounds you would have to lose almost 50 pounds of fat to get to 15%. That person would need to lose 4 pounds a week. Aside from that, I thought this was "bodybuilding.com".

Originally Posted by stonecoldtruth

No intended offense, but your attitude is a bit.. elitist. They are saying they want to help people transform their bodies and their life and you say 'that sucks' because you can't compete in that. You should be HAPPY for the body you've achieved and cheer those on who are striving for the same thing.

Like they said...



SCT

I'm elitist, and I really don't care about other people's weight loss. I don't go through a rigorous training program and diet during contest prep to "look good" or "loss weight". Frankly, I looked a bit scary just bones and muscle. I do it, because I enjoy the sport, I enjoy the challenge, and I'm anal retentive.
But to all of those I offended except Vanessa, I have a great deal of respect and admiration for her, too bad. I am pissed. I will whine over it, because I anticipated this being my year to win this contest to add to my resume. I do want it dammit.

[MsFit Chef]

I have my own personal goals I would love to reach.
This is will be an added bonus on my part.
By the end of December 2007, I will reach one of my main fitness goals.
I would like to continue by adding this contest to enhance my transformation.

Thanks!
Jesse

[getfit74]

I don't have a problem with the way they have it set up, the people with the higher BF% are going to make the most dramatic changes hands down and I think this would be great motivation for any of us.
Me personally I wanted to get in strictly for the motivation nothing like posting your pics each week and doing the blog thing to hold yourself accountable for your own progress knowing thousands of people are watching.

It seems that there are is a lot of bickering about who gets in/wins etc etc. and I just can't understand that. This is a great site with a lot of knowlegeable people willing to share there insights and help others and that's what this should all be about, I know that's why I joined. Lets not turn a good thing into a mudslinging contest. I think everyone did a great job last year and I'm sure the guys they pick this year will do great as well, and they all have my respect for all there hard work.

Also just a little food for thought, a lot of people are using this as an excuse I believe. As in oh darn I didn't get picked so I can't get in shape. Whether your picked or not you can still set your goals and achieve them. You just gotta hold yourself acountable and do the work. You can always do the EAS Body for Life 12 week challenge. My workout partner and I plan on doing it starting around jan/feb as a friendly competition. So for all that don't get choosen it's not the end of the world, you can always enter the Body for Life challenge, it's open to everyone. So don't use not getting into the BB.com challenge as an excuse, get out there and reach those goals!!

[Free Weight Friedel]

[Stonecoldtruth]

Originally Posted by getfit74

I don't have a problem with the way they have it set up, the people with the higher BF% are going to make the most dramatic changes hands down and I think this would be great motivation for any of us.
Me personally I wanted to get in strictly for the motivation nothing like posting your pics each week and doing the blog thing to hold yourself accountable for your own progress knowing thousands of people are watching.

It seems that there are is a lot of bickering about who gets in/wins etc etc. and I just can't understand that. This is a great site with a lot of knowlegeable people willing to share there insights and help others and that's what this should all be about, I know that's why I joined. Lets not turn a good thing into a mudslinging contest. I think everyone did a great job last year and I'm sure the guys they pick this year will do great as well, and they all have my respect for all there hard work.

Also just a little food for thought, a lot of people are using this as an excuse I believe. As in oh darn I didn't get picked so I can't get in shape. Whether your picked or not you can still set your goals and achieve them. You just gotta hold yourself acountable and do the work. You can always do the EAS Body for Life 12 week challenge. My workout partner and I plan on doing it starting around jan/feb as a friendly competition. So for all that don't get choosen it's not the end of the world, you can always enter the Body for Life challenge, it's open to everyone. So don't use not getting into the BB.com challenge as an excuse, get out there and reach those goals!!

Awesome post man! I think you have the right attitude for what this should be about, as well as what our personal fitness is all about. Reps on recharge!

[anti-bonk]

This makes no sense?

If BB.com were having a physique contest and all the obese members started complaining that they were being discriminated against- that would make no sense either. The contest is what it is. The developers of the website have made guidelines, and unfortunately this contest some people will have to sit out because they don't qualify because they are in really good shape. Congratulations! I applaud you. Mabye one day I will be able to say the same.

Here's an idea- why not tag along with the competition and show what standup people you are by encouraging the ones that do get selected. I'm sure with all the accumalitive knowledge you all possess you could be of great help and encouragement to some beginners who could use your help. One of the stated intentions of this contest is the teamwork mentality.

The last OBF contest (on this website) I did not qualify for. I didn't get indignant about it. I followed along just about everyday and hoped everyone would do their best while I waited for my next opportunity.

[Stonecoldtruth]

Another idea, that might appease the masses, would be for Richard to consider running TWO contests at the same time. One geared towards a 'fat loss/transformation' theme, and another geared on an 'overall physique' theme. Obviously that would allow competitors to compete against others with similar goals and then I'd get to see Ness kick teeny's ass.

[carriepeck]

I would love to be considered for this challenge.

[I_WNT_ABS!!!]

Originally Posted by sbh2082

^^^^Thats not necessarily a VERY fair statement either though, just because some of us have done competitions DOES not mean that we don't still have to bust our @$$ to stay in shape or to even get this way! As I previously stated I went from 170-175 to 130 but why should I have to eat like a pig and get fat over the next month JUST to be selected?!!

I do not mean to come off like you do not work hard to get where you are....in fact I completely admire eveyone on here that is in great shape like you. What I am saying is that some of us may NEED this motivation and competition to push us more than others. By getting into the great shape you and some other already in, it seems like you have the will, and mental toughness to get your body where you want it. And the fact that you already did it wothOUT a competition proves you really don't NEED this.

Originally Posted by stonecoldtruth

Another idea, that might appease the masses, would be for Richard to consider running TWO contests at the same time. One geared towards a 'fat loss/transformation' theme, and another geared on an 'overall physique' theme. Obviously that would allow competitors to compete against others with similar goals and then I'd get to see Ness kick teeny's ass.

I agree great idea and if it happens I would love to see anyone whin it other than teeny beclause she clearly doesnt fall under this category "We're hoping to foster a sense of teamwork and a supportive environment (rather than a competitive one)."

[Daretosoar]

I think that no matter what way bb.com chose to go on this, someone is not going to be happy. It looks to me like a lot of opinions have been voiced for the qualifications of the challengers. Its time to let bb.com make the final decision about the rules and the challengers. We need to be supporting each other with or without a contest. That is why we are here.

I will happily support and encourage whomever is chosen for this contest. I see a lot of great applicants and I think everyone of you can benefit from the accountablity and motivation that it will provide. Best of luck to all of you in reaching your goals.

[dvsness]

Fwiw, I have zero interest in participating in this contest. I'm friggin' bulking. I just think it should be like the last one, where no one was excluded based on current appearance or bodyfat percentage. The contestants were varied as can be, in both physique and background, and if you look back on it, were very supportive. Hell, I gave nutrition advice to a few because I wanted to see them succeed despite us being kind of 'rivals'. George and Chuck came to my last show. The experience forged friendships, helped make me who I am today, and I don't like seeing it being denied to anyone.

[Free Weight Friedel]

Originally Posted by getfit74

I don't have a problem with the way they have it set up, the people with the higher BF% are going to make the most dramatic changes hands down and I think this would be great motivation for any of us.
Me personally I wanted to get in strictly for the motivation nothing like posting your pics each week and doing the blog thing to hold yourself accountable for your own progress knowing thousands of people are watching.

It seems that there are is a lot of bickering about who gets in/wins etc etc. and I just can't understand that. This is a great site with a lot of knowlegeable people willing to share there insights and help others and that's what this should all be about, I know that's why I joined. Lets not turn a good thing into a mudslinging contest. I think everyone did a great job last year and I'm sure the guys they pick this year will do great as well, and they all have my respect for all there hard work.

Also just a little food for thought, a lot of people are using this as an excuse I believe. As in oh darn I didn't get picked so I can't get in shape. Whether your picked or not you can still set your goals and achieve them. You just gotta hold yourself acountable and do the work. You can always do the EAS Body for Life 12 week challenge. My workout partner and I plan on doing it starting around jan/feb as a friendly competition. So for all that don't get choosen it's not the end of the world, you can always enter the Body for Life challenge, it's open to everyone. So don't use not getting into the BB.com challenge as an excuse, get out there and reach those goals!!

Awesome Post!!!

[toners923]

Hello Everyone this is my first time posting on this and I want to comend all of you! The reason I joined BB.com is for motivation! I am 38 yrs old And I am tired of being obese(35% starting and now 32% BF in a week)! I have loved the sport of Bodybuilding my whole life But was never serious about striving to be fit(Big and shredded)! For the first time in my life I am serious! This contest is a great Idea for those in shape and not, What a great motivational idea!! When I read everyone going back and forth It made me feel good to see so many people passionate about being fit and transforming there lives forever! Keep on Keeping on! So I will be watching from the sidelines and gaining more motivation as I watch and learn from all of you! It is a shame there can only be a few cause you all derserve to be in it. Good luck to those chosen! cause I will be watching and learning and reaching my own personal goals along the way!

[Maddi]

Dear Rich and fellow judges,

I believe I should be chosen for this contest. Right now I sit at approximately 22% bodyfat. When I began my transformation, I was a more than morbidly obese 68% bodyfat.

I have worked my tail off in order to lose over 46% bodyfat...and keep it off!

This in spite of a perpetual state of hypothyroidism that STILL is not responding to medication.

I bust my ass 2-3 hours per day, 6 days per week. I have never had the honor to meet someone more dedicated to the weights than myself.

Why then do I need this challenge?

I need it for the dieting aspect. I need it for a goal and a deadline. I need it to prove to myself that I have what it takes to step on stage in Vegas 08.
I need it to have a venue to speak with the women who are now where I once was. Morbidly obese and praying for death.

There is a light at the end of the tunnel. The road is not an easy one, but it is there for those who choose it.

I am a living testimony to the absolute wonder that is bodybuilding. I want my light to shine to those who are in dark places.

My physical goal for this contest? I want to bring my body fat down from 22% to 15-16%.

My spiritual goal? I want to inspire.