Fusion Hack: Mindset And What It Takes To Be An Olympia Athlete With Drew Brannon
Welcome back, Fit Body Lifers!
This week’s episode of Fit Body Lifestyle is one for the dreamers—and the doers. If you've ever said, "I want to step on the Olympia stage one day," or even just "I wonder what it takes to compete," then honey, this Fusion Hack is your roadmap.
Greg, Jami, and special guest Drew Brannon break down the real path from your first posing suit to the biggest stage in bodybuilding: the Olympia. They pull back the curtain on what it actually takes—from habits to qualifications to the mindset you need for the long haul.
Because let’s be real: getting to the Olympia isn’t about a straight line—it’s about building a foundation, trusting the process, and becoming a better athlete every single step of the way.
5 Key Takeaways:
1. Start With Habits, Not Just the Stage
Before stepping under the lights, you need to master the basics: training, nutrition, recovery, and consistency. That’s your real first “competition.”
“The first step isn’t just stepping on stage. It’s building habits—and finding a coach who’ll guide you with integrity.”
2. Understand the Competitive Classes
Your first show offers several class options:
True Novice: First-timers only—one shot, one class.
Novice: Until you win an overall.
Masters: Age-based (35+).
Open/Unlimited: The only class that leads to Olympia.
If Olympia is your goal, you’ll eventually need to win or place top 2 in your Open class to qualify for national-level competition.
3. The National Level is Where Pro Dreams Begin
After placing at a regional show, you can compete nationally to earn your IFBB Pro Card. Each national show has its own criteria, and some offer Masters-only paths as well.
“This is where the competition gets serious—and where patience becomes your superpower.”
4. Pro League = New Rules, Higher Stakes
Once you earn your pro card, it’s game on. The IFBB Pro League is tougher, with a points-based system for Olympia qualification. There’s only one Open class, so you’ll need to bring your absolute best.
“The pros who thrive are the ones who built their craft in the NPC, not the ones who sprinted through it.”
5. Don’t Rush the Climb—Fall in Love With It
Rushing through the amateur ranks can leave you underdeveloped and overwhelmed. The journey builds resilience, maturity, and joy. As Jami shared, earning her pro card at 40 gave her a deeper appreciation of the process.
“There’s no expiration date on your dream. Take your time. Have fun. Grow through every phase.”
