The Dos and Don't of Fitness Modeling

So you say you are a fitness model….you hired a trainer, got into shape, ate healthy, stuck to the bland diet of dry chicken with asparagus and now you got this “kick a**” physique ….So now what? The common belief for most women (and men) in fitness modeling is that doing the work to cultivate a stellar physique will in turn land them a gold mine of modelling assignments. Well the harsh reality remains that a killer body will NOT pave the way to landing you features and covers of magazines. Models, whether professional or aspiring, are left discouraged, disappointed, and confused on what they are doing wrong. Even more so models will make common mistakes in their approach and networking with industry professionals.

If you haven’t heard this before, let me be the first to tell you that one must be MORE THAN A MODEL! Being in shape is not enough especially in such a competitive market with tons of new faces. Having a strong mind, body and voice will make you a triple threat, thus making it hard for industry professionals to refuse you. Similar to applying for any other job, whether in an office or bank, you must exude confidence and intelligence; have great communication skills and a marketable image. Possessing these qualities will definitely make you more than a model. Remember, whatever you do, your actions will always leave a lasting impression on photographers, magazine editors and other industry professionals; so make sure it’s a good one.

DO - remember it’s more of what you can offer the to the industry or company, and not what the industry can offer you! Many models/competitors often forget this very important point. Don’t expect sponsors and photographers to come knocking at your door, you will only be discouraged. You may have won a slue of shows, but what you do on stage does not reflect what happens off stage. It is still up to YOU to seek out potential sponsors, or photographers and approach them with your ideas and how these ideas will be beneficial to their business. Sorry ladies… a pretty face just won’t cut it!

DO - Network & Market but Don’t Nag! Make an effort to appear at events where most of the top magazine editors and industry professionals will be. It’s a great way to introduce yourself, and open the door to future communication. Almost like putting “the bug in their ear” of who you are. If you are just starting out as a model, keep it short and professional. Introduce yourself, let them know that you are up and coming. The most important thing here is not to oversell yourself or to be self indulged. Rather, engage in a light conversation about how fascinated you are with their product or editorial. This illustrates to them that you are well versed with what they are professed in. At the end of the conversation THANK THEM with pleasure and leave it at that! These actions are very professional and pleasant. DO NOT hang around and bug them. DO NOT NAG AND SUFFICATE THEM! Not only does the person you were speaking with notice, but so does everyone around you that may be “people watching”. This will label you as a “groupie” or someone that is much too eager to get ahead. In turn all your previous efforts of professionalism have now become annoying, as a result this may close your door of opportunity.

DON’T - “name drop” to get to the top. DO - BRAND YOURSELF! “I know so and so…” I am sure most have been guilty of trying to associate themselves with another industry professional in hopes to better their chances of being recognized . You may think that the “name dropping game” is helping you, but think again. It may even work against you, especially if you really don’t know who you say you know or just know them in acquaintance, this puts you in a vulnerable position. The worst is when the person of hire looks into your claim by making a few phone calls only to find out what you have said, isn’t really what it appears. The best thing is to be UNIQUE in your own way and brand yourself accordingly. If you are confident with your abilities then let nature takes its course. You can brand yourself in many ways for example, by name, fashion statement, and product or personality trait. Branding yourself gives you an identity and allows you to stand-alone . It is your own qualities that make you shine. Be who you are and you will be respected and remembered by your fans, friends and professionals.

DON’T - show up out of shape Remember first impressions are always lasting ones. If you get called for a modelling assignment and you feel you are not ready, DON’T GO ! The worst thing to sabotage your image and the chances of getting rebooked are next to none. If you are in shape, great! If you happen to be in your off season, perhaps politely ask if you could rebook the assignment date. Most industry professionals are very understanding of the “on and off” seasons and trust me, they want you looking your best, even if it means waiting. Remember good things are worth waiting for. DO - Be Prepared - Create your physique for the photographer Whatever the work assignment may be , always, always , always be prepared. There are many ways to prepare yourself. For example if you are booked by assignment for a particular magazine, do your own research. Find out what image or physique they are looking for. Would they rather a mainstream look or would they prefer a more leaner look? These are important questions to ask in your preparation. The last thing you want is for them to say “we need to postpone this assignment” Also ask if clothing, hair and make up are provided and do you need to provide anything of your own. If you are looking for sponsorship or looking for work in the fitness industry, ensure that you research the company , their products, market and goals. Companies are always drawn to individuals that have a working knowledge and vested interest in what they stand for. Showing that you have taken the time to get to know about who they are will stem their interest in you.

DO - create a tasteful image Your image is everything so setting the right image for yourself is very important. It will set the standard on how people project you in the industry and what type of assignments you will have. It is your choice whether you choose an image that exudes much sex appeal, the girl next door, a mainstream look, curvaceous or a tomboy. Which ever you choose make sure your image is tasteful. Just because you may exude sex appeal, it does not mean that you have to take photos that are ‘trashy”. After all, “T and A” can make or break you depending on your choices and presentation. These choices will also dictate how you market yourself. To maximize on your marketing ventures I would strongly recommend an image that is versatile. Having the ability to personify yourself in different ways is very appealing to those in the industry and the public eye. Case in point there is an “art to modeling” and it’s up to you to reinvent yourself to keep your audience appeal..

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