Fitness modeling can be an incredibly rewarding, profitable, and fun career if you invest the proper amount of time, dedication, and energy; however, the industry has become increasingly competitive – especially with the advent of social media sites like Instagram – over the years, posing a challenge for newcomers to the scene. For a fitness model, staying in shape isn’t just a lifestyle, it’s also how they bring home their paycheck.
This constant demand on the body requires you to stay in shape year-round; as a fitness model, you will never know when an opportunity for a new trade show, television commercial, or infomercial may pop up. It pays to stay in shape year-round. Here is a list of tips for fitness models looking to stand out from the crowd.
- Having a Great Body is Just the First Step
Proper nutrition and exercise is always in the forefront of every fitness model’s mind; however, proper facial expressions and body language make up a large percentage of the package. A confident attitude and a great smile will accentuate the body you’ve worked so hard to build, while a slouch and a frown will detract from all of the tough work you’ve put in.
Even if you feel silly doing it, practicing proper body language and facial expressions in front of the mirror (weeks in advance) will help ensure that you look your best on the day of the expo or shoot.
- Personality
If you are working an expo or trade show, your body may be just enough to draw a prospect in; however, it’s going to be your friendly disposition that helps keep a potential client interested long enough to hear what you have to say about the product you are representing.
The confidence that you bring to the table is just as important as the body that comes with you. Remember that you’re at the expo, event, or shoot for a reason: you got hired! An air of self-doubt, worry, and self-consciousness will show in-person and on photograph; a confident attitude will let the client know that they picked the right model for the job. Fitness models and trade show models are tasked with the duty of being as friendly, exuberant, and personable as possible, while maintaining an air of knowledge and professionalism. Which brings us to our next point…
- Study Up
The company, brand, or product you are representing is going to expect that you know as much as possible about their brand. It doesn’t matter whether it is a new exercise machine or sports drink; if a potential customer asks a question, you should know the answer. When you get to the expo or shoot, you should know everything there is to know about the company. It also helps to ask questions if you are unsure about a potential inquiry.
- Always Act Professionally
As a model, you are your own brand. This means that how you conduct yourself at the expo, the trade show, on social media, in the gym, and in day-to-day life all count. You never know what behavior may open or close doors for you, so always act and look your best and treat others with kindness.
- Set a Consistent Routine
A consistent, well-rounded routine that focuses on aerobic and anaerobic exercise is a necessary component of being a sought-after fitness model. It isn’t just enough to train arms or legs; try full-body, compound exercises such as the squat, rows, bench-press, and deadlift for a proportionate and strong body. Cardio also helps keep the water-weight off and your energy levels high.
- Diet
Just as important as exercise, diet will make or break your physique. This means saying no to junk food that may be present at the shoot or expo and always keeping your nutrition in check. This means an adequate amount of protein, vegetables, fruits, and lean meats every day.
On the days leading up to the event or photoshoot, it is also important to watch your carbohydrate, sodium, and water intake. The difference that bloat can make from an excess amount of water and carbohydrates can be huge! Experienced fitness models know how to manipulate these variables days before the shoot.
Hire Fitness Models
The Preferred Promotional Model and Talent Group (PPG talent) represents multiple athletes, fitness models, and healthy active individuals. Our sports models have worked at trade shows, expos, and promotional events, and have been seen on television, commercials, infomercials, social media, and film. Our fitness models are well-versed in the areas of emceeing, speaking, meet & greets, modeling, crowd-gathering, and more! If you need a fitness model from a reputable agency to represent your company, contact PPG Talent today!
If you are a fitness model looking for representation, visit our talent submission form.