Think competing is just about the sparkles and stage lights? Think again.

In Episode 8 of The Macro Lounge, Rach and Chris break down the real cost of bodybuilding - from coaching and bikinis to flights, food, and the tan that can make or break your look.

Warning: contains rhinestones, sass, and maybe a little post-show bakery shame.

Chris even put together a free Competing Cost Budget Tool so you can work out exactly what you’ll be spending before you start prep. Download it here: www.boldphysique.com (Free Downloads section).

Whether you’re planning your first show or eyeing up a full season, this is the episode that’ll save you from nasty surprises on your credit card bill.

New episodes every Saturday - subscribe to us on Spotify so you never miss one.

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We couldn’t wait until Saturday for this one! Join us for a full recap of the ICN Hawkes Bay Show on 2 August where we talk about everything from perfectly executed posing to show-stopping physiques that lit up the stage.

We cover:

• Our standout athletes across figure, classic figure, swimsuit, sports model, wellness, fitness model, and bikini
• Which placings we agreed with… and the ones we didn’t
• Stage presence vs. conditioning – and why both matter
• The competitors to watch heading into Nationals

As always, it’s honest, a bit cheeky, and full of insight from two people who live and breathe this sport.

Not affiliated or associated with ICN New Zealand. Just our take.

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EPISODE 6: So You Want to Compete?

Here's What You Need to Know First
Thinking about stepping on stage for the first time? This week we dive into the signs you're actually ready to compete - physically, financially, mentally and emotionally.

From prep timelines to posing chaos, choosing the right federation, avoiding coach clashes, and embracing the suck (hello, Bulgarian split squats) - Rachel and Chris cover it all.

This is your roadmap for what should happen before you commit to a comp. If you're asking, "Am I ready?", start here.

New episodes every Saturday - follow us on Spotify so you never miss one.

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What actually makes a good coach? In this episode, we get stuck into the red flags, the green flags, and all the things athletes often don’t think to ask when choosing a coach.

Chris shares insight from decades of experience in the industry, while Rachel breaks down how to actually be coachable – and why that matters.

We talk about expectations, communication styles, hand-holding vs high performance, and why not every coach suits every athlete. Whether you're looking for a coach or are one, this episode’s worth a listen.

📩 Email us: [email protected]
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From colours and crystals to cuts and chaos – this episode is all things bikinis.

Rachel shares everything you need to know when choosing a competition bikini: how to pick a colour that works for your skin tone and personality, what judges notice (and don’t), what cut flatters your glutes, and how to care for your suit once the show’s done - and we also learn that Chris is red/green colourblind. Helpful!

Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned competitor, there’s plenty in here to help you avoid costly mistakes and show off your hard work the right way.

Connect with us on Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcast
Email: [email protected]

Which bodybuilding federation is right for you? In this episode, Chris and Rachel break down the differences between federations in New Zealand, from IFBB and NPC to ICN, and what you need to know before stepping on stage.

They chat about category differences, posing, progression pathways, and how to pick the federation that aligns with your goals and values – with plenty of laughs along the way.

Plug in, get your cardio done and lets get started.

Connect with us on Instagram: @macro_lounge_podcast

Email us at: [email protected]

Thinking about stepping on stage?

In this episode, we chat about why you should (or shouldn’t) compete, the realities of bodybuilding, and how to decide if the sport is right for you.

Chris and Rachel share honest insights on categories, expectations, and why at the end of the day, all you can control is what eat and what you lift up and what you put down!

⚠️ TW: This episode touches on eating disorders.

Connect with us on Instagram: ⁠⁠The Macro Lounge Podcast⁠⁠
Email us at: [email protected]

In this first full episode of The Macro Lounge Podcast, Rachel and Chris introduce themselves, their journeys into bodybuilding and bikini competing, and how they ended up starting a podcast that will probably never stick to the plan (sorry, Producer Bubsickle).

They chat about Rachel’s journey from competitive swimmer to world champion bikini competitor and bikini designer, and Chris’s decades-long involvement in bodybuilding as a competitor, judge, and coach.

Expect honest takes, a few side tangents, and plenty of laughs as they set the stage for what’s to come on The Macro Lounge.

Next episode, they’ll dive into why you should (or shouldn’t) compete and what the reality of bodybuilding really looks like.

Plug in, get your cardio done, and let’s get started.

Connect with us on Instagram: ⁠⁠The Macro Lounge Podcast⁠⁠

Email us at: [email protected]

In this short intro, your hosts Rachel (Accentuate Bikinis) and Chris (Team Bold Physique) give you a taste of what The Macro Lounge is all about – unfiltered chats about bodybuilding and bikini competition life in New Zealand, Australia, and beyond.

Expect expert advice, questionable jokes, a few sparkles, and zero adherence to the plan. Whether you're deep in prep or just curious about the sport, this is your new favourite cardio companion.

Plug in and let’s get into it.

Connect with us on Instagram: The Macro Lounge Podcast

Email us at: [email protected]