How to Be a Fitness Model

Working as a fitness model can be a rewarding way to show off the physique that you've worked so hard to attain. You can also show people how beautiful optimal health can be. It's not an especially easy field to break into, but if you have the looks and the desire, you can work as a fitness model.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

1. Get in excellent shape. Because fitness modeling shows off your toned and sculpted body, you need to get in the best shape of your life before considering it. Work with a personal trainer to structure a program that allows you to reach your fitness goals.

2. Be naturally photogenic. Even if you're an attractive person, you may not be right for fitness modeling if the camera can't catch your look. Though the focus of fitness modeling is on physique, your face must look attractive on film as well.

3. Work with a professional photographer to put together a portfolio. Even if you haven't yet worked as a model, you can still have a strong portfolio to show to perspective clients.

4. Create professional fitness model business cards. If you don't have graphic design skills, hire a designer to create your cards. Always have a small stack of them ready to hand out.

5. Compete to gain exposure. Though not a requirement, if you can place in a competition, more people in the business will know your name.

6. Know the major names in the fitness modeling industry. Reading a variety of fitness and bodybuilding magazines can keep you up to date. If you recognize important people when you meet them, you can make a much better impression.

7. Network in the industry. Attend fitness trade shows and bodybuilding events, introducing yourself to key players. Give a business card to each person you talk with and get one in return. Follow up on your contacts.

8. Exude professionalism, no matter how small the job. Give as much to working a booth at a small trade show as you would to a feature spread in a major magazine. The fitness and bodybuilding industry is not especially large, so your reputation can quickly spread.

Tips & Warnings

• Browse a variety of fitness magazines to see the type of physique you need to work towards to be a fitness model. Being in good shape isn't enough.

• Request samples of fitness work from a photographer before you hire her. She may be a great photographer, but if she can't show off a person's physique to its best advantage, you shouldn't use her.

• Research the federation holding a competition before you enter. Each federation looks for different qualities, and the winner of one federation's competition might not even place at another.