The community asks, CrossmAG answers! Some time ago, you asked us:
“Why do bodybuilders use spray tans?!”
At that moment, we realized that perhaps not everyone knows the true meaning of this custom! Think that, well before the famous and very muscular Jersey Shore characters popularized the GTL lifestyle (gym, tan, laundry – gym, tanning, cleanliness and order), bodybuilders were already applying spray tan on their bodies, for competitions, but also in everyday life.
This practice leaves those outside the world of technology a little speechless bodybuilding, but believe it or not, it does part of bodybuilding itself and has a very long history, what way are we going to tell!
Why do bodybuilders tan?
You must not misunderstand; the classic tan we all think of has nothing to do with that of bodybuilders!
Regardless of natural complexion, bodybuilders work hard to drastically darken their skin and add shine, especially before stage performances.
In most cases, this result is obtained by combining a basic tan, obtained by the sea or with lamps and sunbeds, with synthetic spray tans.
The tan improves muscle definition; after months and months of grueling training to enter a competition, the goal is to get the most defined physique.
A darker complexion stands up well to strong, intense lighting from races and the contrast between the lights and the dark skin helps to highlight the muscle striations.
Tanning sprays and benefits
Besides show off the finer muscle details, bodybuilders also use spray tan for other reasons:
- Visual contrast: the artificial tan allows you to have a large leeway with the colors for the race outfit; in fact, you can choose almost all the colors for the bikinis and swimsuits to show off during the competition
- Repaired skin: using tanning beds can increase the likelihood of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer; the spray does not put the skin at risk. Also, if the base of the body is lighter and, therefore, not subjected to a sunbed or lamp tan, it is easier to achieve an even effect with spray tan.
History of tanning in bodybuilding
Beautify your body with a tan is an integral part of bodybuilding visual brilliance during posing routines of the race; this sport has evolved over the years, as have the norms and approaches athletes take towards tanning.
- Dawn: XNUMXth and XNUMXth century bodybuilding stars applied plaster or other powders to their bodies to enhance the show and look like Greek statues
- Golden Era: in the 60s, 70s and 80s the tan became a well accepted aspect in the world of bodybuilding, so much so that those who decided not to use it were penalized during the judgments
- Modern tan: current artificial tanning protocols are very accurate; tanning rituals start the day before the competition and last until a few minutes before the competition. With each competition there are more and more professional operators who perfect the skin of the athletes right up to the last minute.
And you, did you know about artificial tanning sprays? Have you ever used them? Let us know in the comments and remember to follow us on our telegram channel
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