Bikini Contest Prep | Here We Go Again!

Happy Monday friends!  I may not be operating at full speed today, having spent the last 4 days in Dallas with my blogging girlfriends (see what I packed to wear here), staying up too late, and indulging in all things girly and fun. I felt like I was a kid again having an all-girls sleepover for 3 nights, complete with getting ready together and pillow talk. But, you know how it is when you go away for even a few days, it seems like when you get back there’s so much to do from unpacking to laundry to grocery shopping, etc.  
My boys survived and enjoyed their guy weekend, and I’m sure it was good for them both. Sometimes my son just needs alone-time with Dad.  I can’t say the same thing about our poor plants.   Do men really just not notice that the previously healthy and perky plants are wilting away and near death?!?!  Or is it just mine?? I tended to them when I got home, so hopefully, they’ll come back to life.
And speaking of coming back to life, if you follow Honey We’re Healthy, you know that I trained for and competed in my first fitness bikini contest last July.  It was a long-time bucket list item for me and I finally built up the courage to go for it last year.  Exercise has always been a way for me to blow off steam, release stress and feel good about myself.  While I was going through my Dad’s illness, I would work off all the anger, frustration and stress at the gym and it also helped me feel better about myself.  Of course, I want to be healthy and look good too.  I don’t feel embarrassed or ashamed about that, even when people don’t understand my motives.

FITNESS CONTEST 2014
For my first contest, I started working out seriously and eating healthy in January 2014.  Then, to help get me ready for the contest, I hired a trainer in March, and after 14 weeks of training together, I competed on July 3, 2014.  I was in the best shape of my life and felt really good, even weeks before the contest date.  
It was a lot of work to get to that point, but in retrospect, it was just a matter of doing what I knew needed to be done day in and day out.  I actually didn’t have too much trouble sticking to the diet because I liked my food (and there was plenty of it) but the training!!  Oh, the training was always physically demanding, even as I got in better shape and we pushed harder.  Plus, I was doing 45 minutes of cardio about 4 days a week on top of the 3-4 days of weight training.  So, the time commitment was significant too.
At the show, I placed 4th in my age group (over 35) and was humbly proud of my accomplishment.  When I look at the picture below, it’s actually hard to imagine that’s me. I’m definitely not looking like that now. 
bikin contest prep NPC

POST-CONTEST
In the months following the contest, I indulged in way too many sweets (ice cream is my dessert of choice- hello Haagen Dazs Caramel Cone #drool!!!!) and started eating whatever I wanted with little exercise.  Of course, the pounds and body fat creeped back on.  The picture below is from January 2015- 6 months after my contest. Yeah, I’ve got a little pouch, but I’m still a happy person.  🙂 
nike shoes nike workout clothes
capris (similar) |  Zella Z5 tee 
By November 2014, I knew I needed help getting in shape again so I started back with my trainer. He has helped me so much in the last few months, but it’s been an up and down situation with all the struggle my family has been through.  As you can see from the In-Body Analyzer body fat test I did in January, I was 111.6 pounds and 23.4% body fat.  I worked for the next 40 days to lose fat and gain muscle and did pretty well, going down to 110.3 pounds and 19.8% body fat.  You can see from the chart that I added muscle and lost fat, which is the goal.  But between March and mid-April, I lost my Dad and so I wasn’t eating much and when I did, it’s wasn’t very healthy.  I lost about three pounds in 6 weeks and also lost musc
le and gained fat, going back up to 22.5%.  It doesn’t take long to get out of shape.
I’m not consumed by these numbers, but they are good to know because they reveal the composition of your body so you don’t get controlled by the scale.  Muscle weighs more than fat (but takes up less space), so I don’t get freaked out if I’m not losing pounds.  Watching the numbers on the body fat test is also a good measure to find out what’s working and what’s not in terms of how you’re eating and training.   
body fat test bikini contest prep
CONTEST PREP 2015
Now that we are accepting our life’s situation and learning to live our new normal, I’m ready to focus on another fitness goal.  My trainer helped me decide to compete in a second contest this July since it’s far enough out to get in shape and it’s also in my hometown so I won’t have to travel.  I’m the type of person who always wants to achieve more in life and do better than I did before, so this contest will be me against myself, hoping to present a better version of me at the time of the contest than I did last time.  As of now, I’m 11 weeks out from the contest, so there’s lots of work to do.  
nike running training shoes nike workout clothes
capri pants (similar) | tank (similar) | sports bra | shoes | visor | watch | flip-flops 
By the way, I’ve had both the visor and these capri pants for so long and they last!  Because they are so old, the capris aren’t available online, but they are similar to these new legendary dri-fit tight fit capri.  If you’re like me and get too hot in leggings for working out in Spring/Summer, but like the fit and feel of the thicker material, try these capris.  
nike running training shoes nike workout clothes
The visor goes with me everywhere from running the park, to weekend errands, and the pool.  Mine is a little faded, but I’m not surprised because it’s been used a lot for so many years and I’ve washed it a bunch! 
nike running training shoes nike workout clothes
kid sunglasses (similar) | sunglasses (on sale) | earrings (similar
As for my white watch, I got mine on big-time sale and haven’t been able to find it on sale since, but Michael Kors has a similar white and gold watch (I love!) and I just saw that Nordstrom is price matching, so it’s 40% off- only $164.98!  How perfect for summer!!
Michael Kors white gold watch
Now, I’m back training with my trainer 3 days a week and this time, I’m doing 40 minutes of cardio 6 days a week.  Last time, I only did 45 minutes of cardio 4 days a week and that was only for about the last 6 weeks of the contest.  I’m curious to see what effect changing this up will accomplish over the next 11 weeks. 
nike running training shoes nike workout clothes
Since I exercise so much, I need good quality workout clothes that fit well, perform well (wick sweat away, keep you cool, etc.), and that look good too.  I’m crazy over the cute, colorful Nike athletic shoes for working out. In the past, I’ve always just had blue, black or white athletic shoes, but these hot pink running shoes make me so happy!  Some days, you need every bit of encouragement to drag your butt to the gym. Am I right?! 
I ordered this Nike Free 5.0 14 running shoe after reading the reviews (129, 4 1/2 stars) and would also rate them high.  They are lightweight, comfy and breathe well.  They come in aqua/black, grey/pink, and black/white too. 
nike running training shoes nike workout clothes
I needed some new sports bras too and just got this Pro Classic Padded Dri-Fit Sports bra.  I don’t need the padding with these girls, but the padding is removable, so you don’t have to wear it.  I didn’t realize you could remove it at first, so the picture below is with the padding in.  I’m a 32-34D and the medium fits great.  The design is fun too. 
nike running training shoes nike workout clothes
nike running training shoes nike workout clothes
I also got the Nike Free 1.0 Cross Bionic Training shoe, but those aren’t for running because the sole is thinner and not as supportive as a running shoe.  I like them for weight training because they are so light and not at all bulky. You could wear these for walking around, especially running errands or just going for coffee with your friends.  
nike running training shoes nike workout clothes
nike running training shoes nike workout clothes
Isn’t the purple and pink color combo cute?!

nike running training shoes nike workout clothes
Sometimes, especially after working out, I like to get out of my athletic shoes and put on a comfy slip-on so I tried out the Roshe Run Slip On sneaker.  I love the breathability and comfort of this shoe, but I was so surprised how big they were! I typically wear 6 1/2 or 7 in athletic shoes, but both those sizes were huge on me in this shoe.  I put on the 6 1/2 here, but I need to exchange them for a 6.  I usually only wear a 6 in a sandal.  Bottom line: I’d recommend ordering 1/2 or 1 full size down. 

nike running training shoes nike workout clothes
And talk about comfort with these Nike Gym Vintage Capri Sweatpants.  This is a more fitted, thin sweatpant that is great for lounging in.  I don’t workout in them though because I get too hot. 
nike running training shoes nike workout clothes
ALTHETIC SHOES
I went through the selection of Nike training and running shoes and rounded up the top options below.  A good shoe can make or break a workout, right? 
nike running training shoes nike workout clothes
1 | Lunar Cross Element Training Shoe :  A stabilizing, supportive training shoe with mesh upper and foam cushioning at the midsole for springy response and comfort when launching and landing.  Note: neon colors are brighter in person.
2 |  Air Pegasus 31 Running Shoe : Nike zoom and cushion foam provide responsive cushioning in a plush running shoe designed with a no-sew upper for a sleep and easy fit.  23 reviews, 5 stars.
3 |  Free 5.0 TR Fit 5 Print Training Shoe : Comfort, stability and flexibility combined in a breathable mesh training shoe.  11 reviews, 5 stars.  9 patterns/colors.
4 |  Zoom Fit Mesh Training Shoe :  A sleek, ultra-lightweight shoe designed specifically for cardio, strength and core workouts with Zoom Air technology for ultra-responsible cushioning and breathable mesh to keep you feeling cool.  4 colors.
5 |  Free 1.0 Cross Training Bionic Training Shoe : An ultra low-profile, zero drop training shoe brings a barefoot feel to your workout with an anatomically designed heel and forefoot.  Laces are wraparound Flawier cables for a supportive, stabilizing fit.  24 reviews, 4 1/2 stars.  3 colors.
6 |  sold out 
7 |  Free 5.0 TR Fit 4 Print Training Shoe : For cardio, core, circuit training or other gym workouts, this Nike trainer is designed for multidirectional movement with a lightweight, breathable mesh upper that offers superior support.  Provides flexibility and traction with a barefoot feel, while Flywire technology and an inner sleeve lend dynamic support and snug, secure lockdown.  550 reviews, 4 1/2 stars.
8 |  Free 5.0 Running Shoe :  Super lightweight running shoe with a low-profile midsole for a fluid, rocklike fit.  Provides the food-strengthening benefits of barefoot running with the comfort and protection of a traditional shoe.  204 reviews, 4 1/2 stars.
9 |  Free 5.0 TR Fit 4 Training Shoe.  This one is the same as #7, but in solid colors.  550 reviews, 4 1/2 stars.
10 |  Free 5.0 Flash Running Shoe :  Super light running shoe with a highly flexible silhouette to mimic barefoot running with an adaptive, supportive fit and reflective weather-resistant fabric.  204 reviews, 4 1/2 stars.

Y’all know I’m crazy for my Zella socks (and workout wear), but obviously Nike has their own line of socks too.  Do you wear them?  I like the no-show or low socks, but hate when they shrink to a size my son could wear or slip down during a workout.  If you have the Nike socks, let me know how you like them.  
So, what I wanted to ask you is: Would you want bikini contest prep updates here on Honey We’re Home?  
I was thinking of merging the two blogs into one (Honey We’re Healthy content all in a ‘Fitness’ tab on Honey We’re Home) just because it’s so hard to have the time to keep up both blogs in a meaningful way.  Let me know if you are interested in that, or if you like that I keep the health/fitness/recipe content separate from this blog.  I’m still weighing that option. 
P.S.  I just made the switch to make my blog mobile friendly, so if you read my blog on your phone or iPad, it should be easier to read now.  Thank you so much for stopping by and making Honey We’re Home part of your day! 🙂 

*UPDATE:  Thanks so much for your feedback! I have now added a FITNESS tab to the top of my blog and I’ll be updating it regularly, so check it out for all things health & fitness related! 
And, you can check out these related posts:


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affiliate links used 
Thanks to Nordstrom for sponsoring this post and helping us look cute while working out. 


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Meet Megan

Hi! I’m Megan, mom to a thoughtful teenager and spunky young girl. We call Houston home and recently moved into our dream home. I traded my lawyer hat to become a full-time blogger in 2010. I love sharing my passion for affordable fashion, home decor, organization, & fitness to help inspire you to take care of you!

66 Comments

  1. Yes! Please include your training updates on this blog! I'm especially interested in your favorite workouts and any supplements you use!

  2. I would love for your to document your prep!! I check your other blog all the time to see if there are updates/ search recipes. Good Luck!!

  3. Hi Megan,

    I would love for you to merge your two blogs! I wasn't totally aware that you had a separate blog for fitness. Adding a "fitness" tab to Honey We're Home would be fantastic!

    – Caroline k

  4. I am so excited to see your next fitness comp journey!! I'm 22 weeks out from my first competition! I kept checking your healthy blog to see if you would update and i'm glad I saw your instagram post to read this!!!

    1. Oh, that's awesome!! 22 weeks is a long time to prepare, you'll have the marathon (not sprint) mentality. One day at a time adds up to BIG results! I'm cheering you on from Houston!! Keep me posted too!

  5. I have loved both blogs and I can't imagine the time it takes to create two different posts! I think you should definitely combine both. It will help you stay sane and this blog will be a more complete picture of you. Good luck with your prep!

  6. I like reading the workout updates over here on this blog – I'm totally fine if you want to combine them. And thanks to you I'm totally turned on to Zella gear now. I bought some socks and love them. I bought the Work It capris and love them. And I need some new running shoes so will have to check out some of your recommendations. It's funny that we're so close to the same size – right down to bra size and shoe size. 🙂

    1. Ah- you like the socks too!! They are good, right?! I found that all my other athletic socks were shrinking too much and them slipping off my ankle when I worked out. Cheers on being the same size!!

  7. I think combining both blogs is a great idea. I didn't even know you had another blog. I'm looking forward to hearing about your training for the next competition. Good luck!

  8. Good for you, Megan! I loved reading about your journey last year to your contest, can't wait to read about it again. I have made your protein pancake almost everyday for breakfast since you posted it in July.

    I think you could merge both blogs. I like the idea of having all your content in one place. It is a huge piece of who you are, along with all the content you add here on HWH, so I think it makes perfect sense.

  9. Yeah, I don't see why you can't have the two subjects on one blog. I am so happy you're doing another bikini contest! I found it so inspiring last year and really have learned a lot. I'm looking forward to hearing more and know you're going to do great … again!

  10. You're an inspiration! I would definitely read the health/fitness posts on honey we're home 🙂

    Also..don't know how to switch the name but my post comment might come up as Adam Walker. My name is Siobhan 🙂

  11. So exciting! Loved following your progress last year and would love to follow again. Combining the two blogs and having the a fitness tab over here sounds like a great idea! I'm always checking Honey We're Healthy so it would be great to see that stuff here! Go for it! Good luck with the contest prep. I'm sure you'll do awesome! xo

    1. Thanks Lisa! I'll post the next update next week. Thank you so much for reading HWHealthy! I've just not had enough time to post there lately, but I enjoy that content so much.

  12. So exciting! I followed along on your first journey and I can't wait to hear how this one goes! Would love to have updates on this blog!

    1. Thanks for following along Lori. It really helped me get through my cardio on the treadmill when I would read and respond to comments on my blog and on Instagram. All the positive support made a big difference.

  13. Would love to see your fitness posts! I'll read them on whichever blog you post them on 🙂 You are looking fabulous already 🙂

  14. Love the idea of you merging your blogs, but regardless of where you post your competition prep updates, I'll be following them! You did awesome last year, and it's so exciting that you're taking on the challenge again! Good luck and go get it!

  15. I think combining the blogs would be great, but truly do what is easiest for you! I'll read them no matter what! Thanks for sharing this journey with us!!

  16. Megan, you're such a beautiful girl. I enjoyed following along as you prepared for the bikini contest last year, and I was so proud that you earned a medal! I'm guessing all your blog friends and readers were really rooting for you. I'm glad that competing again has given you that little extra "oomph" to take exquisite care of yourself after you've been through such a rough time. Isn't it nice to know that we're only responsible for our own motives and actions, not for what other people might think of them? Thank goodness we only have to answer to God, who is so kind and loving and gracious!

  17. I have the same super old black classic capris from years ago and they are my fav and still in good shape. Since they are so old, I felt it was time to upgrade to new ones and they are NOT the same. 🙁 I am so sad. Those legendary (which I bought in crop, capri and the legging) are thinner and the fabric just doesn't feel the same. They also don't fit the same. It's such a bummer. I am such a Nike snob but I opted for Lulu crops yesterday because I want a my workout clothes to have some weight to them (if that makes sense) I guess I'll have to switch to all compression by Nike because their basics feeling like I'm wearing panty hose! FYI I'm a total brat when it comes to workout clothes 😉

  18. I'm looking forward to following you along again! You did such a great job last year 🙂 it's on my bucket list as well to compete once I get my two little girls in full day school (ages 4&2 right now). I really enjoy the birds eye view watching your journey. Meals, workouts, and cost breakdown would be greatly appreciated! I'll be tuning in wherever you decide to post 🙂

  19. Yes to combining the blogs! I like variety in the posts and have been wanting a close to the fitness challenge you were doing! New mobile view is good as I'm on my phone now!

  20. So inspired by you!! I'd love to do the journey with you (albeit I live in London). As so interested I. What you eat, what protein shakes you buy, etc! You're one of my favorite blogs to follow and so happy to hear you're doing another competition. So well done!

  21. How do you find a good trainer I’m in Oklahoma City I did a contest 6 years ago and I want to do another one and I know what I need to do but I need somebody else to push me at least way to gain weight I lose weight I gain weight I’m almost 63 years old and less active than I was can you give me some tips or do you know somebody in Oklahoma City

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