Back-to-Back Wins & Pro-Level Mindsets | Battle on the Gulf Coast Recap 🏆

This past weekend, LaceyStrong Coaching brought the heat to the 2025 Battle on the Gulf Coast — and we didn’t just show up, we showed out. With a team full of competitors bringing their best to the stage, this event marked another powerful moment in a season that’s just getting started.

And for me as a coach, it was an unforgettable one.

🥇 Mississippi Coach of the Year — Again

The biggest moment this week? Taking home the Mississippi Coach of the Year award for the second year in a row — and the Louisiana Coach of the Year in the same year, again.

Winning both coaching awards back-to-back isn’t just a recognition — it’s a reflection of the team, the system, and the culture we’ve built.
Consistency. Execution. Leadership. That’s what wins awards — and more importantly, it’s what drives real results for every athlete we coach.

Coaching Insight: Don’t Chase the Win — Build the Physique

This week, I challenged my athletes to flip their mindset:
Stop chasing trophies. Start building a winning physique.

When you obsess over placing or earning a pro card, you lose sight of the real goal — to become a pro-level competitor, no matter what division you’re in. If you chase the physique with the same hunger you chase the win, the victories will follow naturally.

Mindset first. Physique second. Everything else takes care of itself.

Shoutout of the Week: Wallace Britton

I want to give a major shoutout to Wallace Britton, who stepped on stage for his first ever show this weekend. Wallace is a full-time police officer, and still found time to train, prep, and show up ready. That kind of commitment and discipline is what this team is all about. Proud doesn’t even begin to cover it.

What’s Next: Cajun Muscle in 2 Weeks

The season continues and momentum is building fast. Our next stop:
Cajun Muscle, happening in just two weeks.

More athletes. More physiques. More opportunities to raise the standard for what it means to be part of Team LaceyStrong.

Final Reflection: Let the Losses Build You

This week I reminded every athlete:
Losing isn’t failure — unless you let it change your heart.
Use every placing, every feedback, every hard moment as fuel. Keep your eyes on the bigger picture: growth, evolution, and showing up as your best — regardless of the outcome.

Ready to Compete With Purpose?

If you’re ready to train for a show, transform your body, or finally stop second-guessing your fitness journey, now is the time.
With 5x Coaching Awards, including 2x Mississippi Coach of the Year and 4x Louisiana Coach of the Year, Lacey Pruitt brings unmatched experience and leadership to every client relationship.

Apply now for:

• NPC & IFBB Prep Coaching

• Custom Training & Nutrition Plans

• Online Fitness Coaching for Lifestyle & Competition Athletes

• Local Coaching in Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Lafayette, and across the South

👉 Join Today - where mindset, muscle, and momentum come together.

50+ Athletes. One Team. One Vision. | LaceyStrong Coaching Recap

This week marked a major milestone for LaceyStrong Coaching — the kind of moment that reminds you why you do this. With our second Athlete Meet-Up of 2025 and the upcoming Battle on the Gulf Coast show right around the corner, the energy within the team is unmatched.

If you're searching for Louisiana bodybuilding coaching, NPC competition prep, or just a real fitness community in places like Baton Rouge, Ponchatoula, New Orleans, or Lafayette — you’re in the right place.

Team Energy Like Never Before: 50+ Athletes Under One Roof

This week’s highlight? Walking into Ponchatoula Fitness Center and seeing over 50 LaceyStrong athletes training together, laughing, posing, lifting — locked in on their goals. The biggest in-person turnout we've ever had.

Huge thanks to Ponchatoula Fitness Center for opening their doors and giving us the space to grow stronger — together. For me as a coach, seeing everyone in one place… it meant everything. This wasn’t just a gym session. It was a reminder that we’re not just building physiques — we’re building family.

Coaching Insight of the Week: Let Me Drive the Car

A powerful reminder I shared with the team this week is simple:
Let me drive the car — you just be the athlete.

So many competitors overthink during prep. They get in their own heads, second-guessing every bite, every step, every look in the mirror. But that’s my job. I’m here to take care of the mental, physical, and emotional load so you can stay focused on showing up, executing, and trusting the plan.

The best physiques come from athletes who trust the process. That’s where growth happens.

Team Shoutout: You Made My Year

This week, the entire LaceyStrong Team showed up and made a dream come true. All I’ve ever wanted was to build a team culture that feels like family — and this week proved that it’s already happening.

To everyone who came to the meet-up: thank you. You made this the highlight of my year.

What’s Next: Battle on the Gulf Coast – June 14th

The season is heating up and the next big stop is here:
Battle on the Gulf Coast — going down June 14th.

We’ve got competitors ready to hit the stage with intensity, confidence, and next-level conditioning. If you’re attending or competing, come say hi. The LaceyStrong team will be showing up strong, as always.

Want to Join the Most Connected Coaching Team in Louisiana?

Whether you’re training for your first NPC show, chasing a Pro Card, or simply want expert guidance on nutrition, posing, training, and supplementation — this is where you belong.

Led by former IFBB Pro and 5x Coach of the Year Lacey Pruitt, LaceyStrong Coaching offers:

✅ Custom online coaching
✅ Bikini & wellness prep
✅ Lifestyle transformation programs
✅ Athlete meet-ups across Louisiana

Ready to stop guessing and start progressing?

Apply Below.

National Stage Moments & Big Team Wins

This past week at LaceyStrong Coaching was nothing short of unforgettable. As a coach who’s deeply invested in each athlete’s journey, being able to stand beside my clients on a national stage was a reminder of why we do what we do. From Junior USA’s in Charleston to the NPC Peach Classic in Atlanta, Team LaceyStrong showed up strong, polished, and competitive.

🏆 Coaching at Junior USA’s — A True Milestone

This weekend, I had the privilege of traveling with Victor Cooks and Erika Mitchell as they stepped on stage at Junior USA’s in Charleston, South Carolina — one of the most competitive national shows in the country. Both athletes brought their best physiques to date, and seeing them make a serious run for their IFBB Pro Cards was a career highlight as a coach.

It wasn’t just about the look — it was about the energy. Their confidence, poise, and presence made a statement. And as a coach, being able to stand there with them, knowing the hard work that went into every cardio session, every macro count, and every posing round — it meant everything.

🌟 Client Shoutouts: National & Regional Excellence

I want to give a major shoutout to:

• Erika Mitchell – Nailed her stage presence and conditioning at Junior USA’s. Her presentation was on point and her growth as an athlete showed in every pose.

• Victor Cooks – Peak conditioning and poise on stage. His national debut was a proud moment for the entire LaceyStrong team.

• Shontell Edwards – Competed at the NPC Peach Classic in Atlanta and brought her best look yet. Her structure and overall stage polish lit up the stage.

💡 Coaching Insight of the Week: Bodybuilding Is a Privilege

This week, I reminded my athletes (and myself) of something important: Bodybuilding is a privilege, not a burden. It’s easy to get caught up in the pressure of prep, but every step of this process — from cardio to check-ins — is something we choose to do. Slow down. Soak it in. These moments don’t last forever.

When we stop chasing perfection and start appreciating the journey, everything shifts. You grow not just as a competitor, but as a person.

🔋 Personal Coaching Reflection: Be Fully Present

As a coach, one lesson hit home for me this week — and it’s simple: Put the phone down. Be present.

During these big moments — from pump-up room prep to post-stage hugs — my job isn’t just to coach macros and posing. It’s to be there for my clients. This week reminded me to take it all in, enjoy the moment, and give each athlete my full attention. Because the memories we create together matter just as much as the medals.

📅 Coming Up: Next LaceyStrong Team Workout — June 7

We’re keeping the momentum rolling with our next LaceyStrong Team Workout and Meetup on June 7. These events are more than a training session — they build culture, connection, and community within the team. If you’ve never been to one, now’s your chance. You’ll leave better — guaranteed.

Ready to Compete or Transform? Join LaceyStrong Coaching

Whether you're working toward your first show, building your lifestyle transformation, or going all-in on your IFBB Pro Card dreams, LaceyStrong Coaching has the tools, structure, and experience to get you there.

With a nationally recognized program and a 5x coaching award winner at the helm — including 4x Louisiana Coach of the Year and 1x Mississippi Coach of the Year — this is where champions are built.

👉 Apply now to join LaceyStrong Coaching and start your journey today.

Louisiana State Championships

🏆 4x Coach of the Year & 8 Athletes on Stage — The LaceyStrong Standard

This past week was a monumental one for LaceyStrong Coaching. From the moment we stepped into the Louisiana Open State Championships, it was clear this weekend would be something special — and it did not disappoint. With eight LaceyStrong athletes stepping on stage and Coach Lacey Pruitt taking home her 4th consecutive Coach of the Year award, this week was a reflection of what happens when strategy, discipline, and belief align perfectly.

🔥 Louisiana Open State Championships Recap

The Louisiana Open is one of the most competitive bodybuilding shows in the region, and this year, the LaceyStrong team showed up in full force. With eight athletes dialed in, conditioned, and confident, the backstage energy was unmatched. This wasn’t just another show — it was the kickoff to a powerful 2025 season, and the results spoke for themselves.

🏅 Coach of the Year — Four Years Running

One of the most humbling and fulfilling moments of the weekend was being awarded Coach of the Year for the fourth year in a row — 2022, 2023, 2024, and now 2025. This award is more than a title. It’s proof that consistency, leadership, and care for each athlete’s journey create results that speak for themselves.

“I’ve wanted this 4th win so badly — not for the recognition, but to prove to myself and my team that when you never give up, when you show up every year, and when you stay committed to your mission, incredible things happen.” – Coach Lacey

💡 Peak Week Coaching Insight: Stress Can Break a Physique

A valuable lesson I shared with my athletes this week — and one that makes a huge difference during show week — is to eliminate stress as much as possible leading into show day. Peak week is about precision and calm.

That’s why I create a full custom show schedule for every competitor I coach — with mapped-out eating times, posing windows, and check-ins. Structure reduces stress, and stress can absolutely ruin your look if unmanaged. The more relaxed and confident you are heading into the show, the better your physique holds.

👏 Client Spotlight: Scott Hickey

A massive shoutout to Scott Hickey, who stepped on stage for the first time with me this weekend. He brought a polished, highly respected look that turned heads — and set the tone for many more shows to come. First show, first win. Proud is an understatement.

📅 What’s Next for LaceyStrong

Next up: Optimum Classic on May 24th
Another high-level show, another opportunity for the team to shine. Expect more athlete spotlights, more behind-the-scenes moments, and more competitive physiques stepping on stage — built with purpose and guided by experience.

🧠 Final Thought: Pressure vs. Self-Belief

This week reminded me that pressure isn’t always a bad thing — as long as it’s not self-sabotaging. The pressure to do well is natural, but when it turns into doubt, it can slow your momentum. Go with your gut. Trust your preparation. Believe in your work. That’s what gets results — and that’s what I remind myself, and my clients, every single week.

Are You Ready to Compete or Transform?

Whether you're prepping for your first NPC competition, working toward an elite-level bikini or wellness package, or just trying to look and feel your best — LaceyStrong Coaching offers the structure, strategy, and mentorship to get you there.

🔗 Apply now for online coaching and become part of one of the most competitive, results-driven teams in the country.

LaceyStrong Weekly Recap

Team Energy, Discipline Wins, and Peak Week Momentum

Another powerful week in the books for LaceyStrong Coaching, and momentum is only growing as we gear up for the first bodybuilding show of 2025. This week was filled with major client wins, breakthrough realizations, and a massive team moment that set the tone for the season. Whether you're in the middle of prep, new to fitness coaching, or chasing your next personal best — this post is packed with lessons and updates to fuel your journey.

Client Check-Ins & Peak Week Grind

This past week was all about peak week prep, dial-ins, and keeping the energy high for our first competition of the year. Every athlete completed their check-in, and progress was strong across the board. With peak week underway, the vibe was intense but focused — and exactly what you'd expect from a high-performing fitness coaching program that prioritizes customized prep strategies and results-driven accountability.

Highlight of the Week: First Team Workout & Athlete Meetup of 2025

Seventeen LaceyStrong athletes came together in person for our first official team workout and posing meetup of 2025, and it was nothing short of electric. Hosted at Franco’s Gym — a facility known for supporting elite-level training — this was more than just a group lift.

Community & Connection: Why It Matters

For many of us, it was the first time meeting face-to-face. We trained together, posed together, shared stories, and created the kind of team energy that you just can’t replicate online. As a nationwide online bodybuilding coaching team, moments like this are everything. It’s one thing to check in online — it’s another to see firsthand what drives your teammates, how they move, how they train, and why they show up.

This is the culture we’re building at LaceyStrong Coaching — a tight-knit community of dedicated athletes with one common goal: get better, together.

Coaching Insight of the Week: Motivation Is a Lie, Discipline Wins

One of the most important mindset shifts I taught a client this week was this:
Stop chasing motivation. Start building discipline.

Motivation will come and go — especially during bodybuilding prep, contest seasons, and hard dieting phases. But discipline? Discipline stays. Discipline is what brings results when motivation isn’t there. It’s what separates those who talk about success from those who live it every single day. Whether you're prepping for a show or just starting your fitness journey, showing up on the hard days is what builds the physique and mindset you want.

Client Shoutout: Jay Veasman

A huge shoutout to Jay Veasman, who just entered his first peak week in 5 years. His mindset, dedication, and positive energy have been inspiring to everyone on the team. Stepping back on stage after a long break isn’t easy — but he’s handled it like a true professional. Let’s go, Jay!

What’s Coming Up: First Show of the Year!

The countdown is on:
Our first show of the 2025 competition season hits the stage April 19th, and the LaceyStrong Coaching team is READY. The energy is high, conditioning is locked in, and the vibe is nothing short of championship-level.

Follow along for real-time updates, peak week photos, client transformations, and more — it’s going to be a big weekend.

Final Reflection: Believe in Your Clients

As a coach, this week reminded me of something powerful:
When someone has even one person who believes in them, anything becomes possible. The biggest win isn’t just physical transformation — it’s seeing someone start to believe in themselves again. That’s why I do what I do.

Want to Work With LaceyStrong Coaching?

If you're ready to take your training, nutrition, posing, or prep to the next level — with a coach who shows up, leads from the front, and believes in you before you believe in yourself — now is the time.
👉 Apply for online coaching today and join one of the fastest-growing fitness coaching teams in Louisiana and beyond.