What are the most common errors made during callouts ? Is there something I should be aware of that helps me showcase my physique that

competitors often forget in the heat of battle ?

The biggest mistake made during callouts is not presenting your body properly . So the first thing is that you need to learn how to pose correctly ! This is where plenty of practice before shows is key .

Another mistake : Many competitors take too long to hit the pose after the head judge has

called for it . Callouts are for comparisons between the athletes — if everyone else in the lineup has hit the pose and you are still preparing , you may miss the chance to be compared with the others in the group .

Similarly , hitting “ extra ” poses before going into the requested pose does nothing more than waste time for both you and the judges and definitely should be avoided . Hit

the pose that ’ s asked for in a timely manner , and hold it long enough for all the judges to get a chance to see you .

You also want to make sure you appear confident and relaxed , even if you are feeling nervous and anxious inside . You must look like a winner if you want to be a winner . Remember to smile , and learn to relax your face even while tensing the rest of your body . ( This , again , comes with practice .)

154 FLEX | MARCH ’ 18