Fitness Models – The Look

I’ve been an avid reader of Fitness for women for some time now. I have always coveted the look of their cover models and fitness models, although I’ve come to the conclusion that no amount of exercise is going to get me a four-pack, muscular arms and sinewy legs (in a nice way!). However I’ve been reading other fitness and fitness/beauty combo magazines (like Shape) and I think there is a sort of “standard” for the look of the models in these magazines, especially cover models.

To start, the look for the face is fresh, radiant and glowing. They don’t have much makeup other than maybe some blush and highlighter, and mascara on the eyes. This dewy look is really popular right now and especially if you are trying to promote a look of health. They also always have some sort of tan. I’m not talking about a tan that smacks of skin cancer or a fake orange but just a slightly darker, sunkissed look.

They tend to put them in something that shows off their stomach – which is always, always rock hard and defined, with a four (or more)! pack. They look sculpted all over – arms, back, legs, even their butts seem to be magically lifted.

Now, am I the only one who looks at these pictures and wonders why I don’t look like that? Even when I exercise regularly, I still look more like a regular person off the street than one of these ladies. I certainly think it’s better than promoting a sickly look, but *please* don’t get the idea that you will look like this if you just exercise. These ladies are genetically blessed (I keep reminding myself).

That doesn’t mean you can’t strive to look your very best – and I think this is a good look to go for, rather than pale and anorexic. If you can pull it off – good for you! (But use self tanner instead of laying out in the sun).

Do any of you ever read these magazines? What do you think of the models in them?

Claire