OK, let’s talk about this crazy eating contest thing I tried. I’ve always thought those competitive eaters were nuts, but I figured, why not give it a shot? So, I signed up for a local hot dog eating contest, just to see what it was like.
First off, I started to look up how those guys do it. The amount of food is insane, right? Found some wild tips online, like stretching your stomach and stuff. Seriously. So a few weeks before the contest, I tried to eat bigger meals. I wasn’t stuffing my face, but I was definitely eating more than usual. I would eat until I was full, and then I’d try to eat a bit more. Each day, I ate a little more than before.

They also say you gotta drink tons of water, I guess to expand your stomach or something? So, I started carrying a water bottle everywhere. I felt like a balloon, to be honest. I was drinking gallons of water every day, it felt like. I had to pee every hour!
- Eat bigger meals to stretch your stomach.
- Drink a lot of water to stretch your stomach.
- Practice eating fast.
- Try not to chew too much.
Then there’s the whole technique thing. Those pros, they don’t really chew. They just swallow those hot dogs whole, almost. I tried that at home – bad idea. Almost choked! But I did try to eat faster than usual. It was messy, but I think I got the hang of it after some practice.
So, the day of the contest comes. I’m a little nervous, not gonna lie. There are some serious-looking people there. I mean, some of these folks looked like they’ve done this before, you know?
We start, and wow, it’s harder than it looks. I managed to get down a few hot dogs pretty quick. I dunked them in water, just like I saw on TV. But then, it hits you. That full feeling. It’s rough. My body was telling me to stop, but I kept pushing.
The Aftermath
I didn’t win, not even close. But I ate more hot dogs than I ever thought I could. I think I ate 15. It was brutal. Afterward, I felt so bloated and sick. I think I’ve had enough hot dogs for a lifetime, seriously. I definitely don’t think I’ll be trying that again soon. It was a wild experience, though. I have a whole new respect for those competitive eaters. They’re in a league of their own.
But hey, it was fun to try something new, even if it was totally out there. I might not be a competitive eater, but at least I can say I tried, right?