Rewiring After the Stage: The Mental & Physical Challenge of Reverse Dieting

In this week’s episode of The Psyche Behind the Physique, IFBB Pro and head coach Maddy Michielssen sits down with her athlete and friend, Miki, fresh off her first competition stage. Together, they tackle a topic often overlooked yet crucial for competitors: the mental and physical challenges of reverse dieting post-show. From the science behind neural pathways in prep to the struggle of re-establishing a healthy relationship with food after intense discipline, Maddy and Miki share invaluable insights.

Miki opens up about the unexpected challenges she faced reversing with a healthy food mindset, while Maddy provides tips for rewiring the brain, maintaining accountability, and navigating the emotional highs and lows of this phase. They discuss the importance of a supportive coach in the reverse journey and practical strategies to s ...