It’s time for another reality check by yours truly and this time it’s a discussion on skin tone. OK, well maybe not a discussion – more like a rant. Bodybuilding stages these days seem to be haunted. That’s right. Haunted! More and more often I see lineups on stage with one or two “ghosts” floating through the mandatory poses. No – I’m not having a stroke or on some kind of hallucinogen. I even see some muscular “Caspers” in the fitness and bodybuilding magazines today. Not sure what I’m talking about? It’s people who don’t tan. Many still fail to realize that whether your under the bright lights of the competitive stage or the hot lights of a photo shoot – those puppies can wash you out.
A dark tan is one of the keys to really showing off your muscles and deep cuts. Definition is enhanced with a golden brown glow. And if you’re concerned about UV rays – there is a load of self-tanning creams and sprays out there that get you almost the same results. So there is no reason for you to be depriving yourself of the head-turning power of a good tan. But be careful – as with all things muscle related – it can be overdone.
Tricks of the tan:
- A good base of natural tan either via the sun or a tanning booth can help with a good, competitive bronze. Try to start tanning at least 6 weeks out from competition. Then you won’t have to rush it an risk burning or damaging your skin.
- With a good base tan – it is still necessary to apply a tanning oil or cream (and several coats at that) prior to stepping on stage. Be sure to check in advance with the regulations of the show you’re in to see if certain oils and creams are banned. When you apply them, having someone else’s assistance always helps. There’s no nice way to put it; you’re painting yourself and the only way to make sure you don’t need another coat is a second set of eyes.
- Lindsay Lohan syndrome. If you opt not to chance the UV damage and go with bronzing creams or sprays – choose a pigment that works to make you BROWN – not orange or grey.
Of course, if you still prefer tanning, that option is still open to you. Be sure to start well before the competition to be sure you know your tolerance. Also, certain medications do not react well to the beds, so check with your doctor before you start. Stand up booths take less time but are more expensive. Most salons or gyms will give you your first session free to see which bed you prefer. Whatever you do, darken up in time for the judging – you don’t want the kid from THE 6th SENSE sitting in the crowd whispering “I see white people.”