Cupcakes & Protein Shakes

Bikini Competition Journey: From Beginner to Stage Success, Lessons, Coaching, and Goals | Rachel Dempsey


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Guest's Fitness Journey

  • Inspired by Ashley Kaltwasser's videos after two years in the gym.
  • Started as a beginner with no athletic background, gained 15 lbs after marriage.
  • Discovered bikini competitions while stationed in Japan with the military, with no social media influence at the time.

First Competition Experience

  • Began competing in Germany; lacked stage readiness and had an unfit coach.
  • Struggled with posing and mindset—initially indifferent about placing but later became emotionally invested.
  • Learned it’s normal to lose in the first show and not to expect immediate success.

Competition History (7 Shows Since 2022)

  • 2022: Two shows, lacked proper preparation and results.
  • 2023: Competed in Germany, switched to a strict coach 7 weeks out, followed an intense vegetarian egg-white-based diet, and placed 3rd in Texas. Improved posing significantly.
  • 2024: Two shows after a 12-week cut, placed 4th in both, including the competitive Republic of Texas show.

Lessons Learned & Goals

  • Key takeaway: Stay consistent with diet and training, no cheating if you want results.
  • Big goal: Earn a Pro Card, grow during the offseason, and continue competing.

Key Changes & Support System

  • Best improvement: Followed the plan diligently, hired expert posing coaches (Lauren Dannenmiller or Bec from Posing School).
  • Suit color: Aquamarine, perfectly complemented her skin tone.
  • Transitioned careers from photography to vet tech.

Training & Nutrition

  • Cardio peaked at 2 hours/day.
  • Follows a meal plan without focusing on calorie count for better mental adherence.

Mindset

  • Focus on enjoying the stage experience rather than obsessing over placing.
  • Accepts the subjectivity of the sport; success requires patience and persistence.
  • Cautions against gambling with shows or coaches—find a reliable support system.

Closing Message

  • Embrace the journey, celebrate progress, and remain disciplined—it’s a marathon, not a sprint.

Follow IG: https://www.instagram

Welcome to Cupcakes & Protein Shakes, the podcast that gives you the tools and inspiration you need to achieve your fitness and wellness goals. Follow your host Savana Sharp on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok for even more great content and insider tips. Join the community on Facebook!

We've got some fantastic discount codes and links to share with you today! Use code "SAVANAS" for 10% off your purchase of Angel Competition Bikinis, and sign up for a free consultation with Savana to design your dream competition suit.

If you need help with bikini posing, book a session with Savana at https://calendly.com/savanasharpposing

If you would like to work 1:1 for bikini prep or lifestyle coaching with Savana please apply for coaching here: https://savanasharp.com/lifestyle-coaching-application/

Looking for some sweet Cupcakes & Protein Shakes merch? Check out our store at https://www.bonfire.com/store/s...

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Cupcakes & Protein ShakesBy Savana Sharp

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