Written by Kathryn Lekas, Editor-in-Chief
Photo by 6ix models
When it comes to capturing pics, let’s be honest: as fitness lovers, we might be tempted to hit that bicep flex a bit too often. Even in holiday photos with family and friends. So, how do you find that balance between showing off your well-earned physique and looking relaxed in festive photos? Take a handful of details from stage to celebration with some modifications and you’ll nail it.
1. Confidence
Stage: You have to show big confidence in the presentation and display of your physique on stage.
Celebration: Channel that same confidence into your holiday photos, but in a relaxed way. Instead of focusing on flexing or showing muscle definition, focus on how you feel. Confidence radiates through your posture, eyes, and smile.
2. Shape
Stage: When on stage, we often use an “X" analogy to create dramatic lines. This shape highlights broad shoulders, a narrow waist, and well-defined proportions, making the body appear balanced and structured. The X shape draws attention to areas like the shoulders and hips, giving that strong, statuesque look.
Celebration: In everyday photos, swap the X for a more natural “S" shape. This softer pose flows from head to toe, emphasizing curves without looking too stiff or staged. Try a slight tilt at the hip, a relaxed bend in the knees, and positioning your shoulders at different angles.
3. Angles
Stage: Angles are everything on stage. We turn to the side to showcase our shape, twist to make our waistlines smaller, and use angles to manipulate how our muscles appear.
Celebration: While angles are still important in holiday photos, go for less exaggeration. Avoid straight-on shots; instead, turn slightly to the side and shift your weight onto one leg. A little twist at the waist or a gentle tilt of the head can make a big difference, creating depth and movement in the photo without looking posed.
4. Hands
Stage: On stage, hands are often placed in very specific positions—either accentuating certain muscle groups or creating intentional lines for symmetry.
Celebration: Your hands should still have a determined place. Try one hand gently on your hip, resting in your pocket, or softly brushing your hair back. Natural gestures make your pose look effortless, which is exactly what you want for holiday photos.
5. Close-Ups
Stage: At the Arnold Classic and the Olympia, the Athlete Meet n’ Greet usually ends around 9 p.m. and Pro Fitness Athletes are typically on stage by 9 a.m. the next morning, which doesn’t leave a lot of time for sleep, but we still have to look fresh.
Celebration: This time of year can be busy and leave you feeling tired, stressed, or sleep-deprived. Freshen up your look before any close-up:
• Hydrate: Drinking water is key, but a good face mist is also fab.
• Power Nap: Close your eyes when you can. A solid 20 minutes can do wonders.
• Breathe: It’s often underestimated but the right breath can be the pinnacle of a pose. I take a five second breath in, hold for five seconds, and then 10 to breathe out. This helps to look ready.
6. Posture
Stage: A competitor’s posture is key to showcasing muscles and symmetry, with shoulders rolled back, chest lifted, and core tight.
Celebration: You don’t need to go into full-bodybuilder mode. Keep your shoulders back and chest up, but soften your stance. Think more “tall and confident” rather than “tight and posed.” Good posture not only enhances your appearance but also exudes confidence, which shines through in photos.
