Carla Smith knew her past training put her at a disadvantage heading into the Canadian Fitness, Figure and Bikini Championship July 23 in Saskatoon.
Given that, she was happy with placing seventh out of 13 competitors in the female masters figure division.
As a long-time successful bodybuilder, the Estevan resident knew it would be a struggle to "soften" her body enough for the figure event, which she entered for the first time.
"Basically, I was too ripped up so I needed to be softer yet," Smith said.
"I kind of knew that I wasn't soft enough, but you have to start somewhere."
She said she enjoyed the experience but now must decide whether she wants to continue in this direction, undoing more of the work she did during a lengthy bodybuilding career.
"It was princess for the day and it was great. You get me on stage and I just love it.
"It was a great experience. To pursue it more, you have to soften up. That'll be the next call - do you soften more?"
Smith will now take some time to rest while continuing to train. She plans to spend more time as a personal trainer.
Smith said a friend who tagged along to the nationals was surprised by the experience.
"She couldn't believe it. She got a whole new outlook on the process.
"It's something that if anybody was ever interested at all, they gotta do it - even if you just stop at doing a novice show. Just to say you've been there, done that."
