Tattoos and competition.

[aabbott88]

As you can see from my profile pic, I have tattoos. I have a half sleeve on my right arm, a chest piece, back piece, and a few others. How will my tattoos affect my career as a bodybuilder? I want to compete in my first show about this time next year. What are your thoughts on tattoos and competing. Are there any rules against them? Thanks! By the way, please don't hate, I'm pretty new at this.

[db2012]

everybody will tell you something different.

Id say you have to check with the federation your with.

some judges will knock it, others will ignore it. Its all about whos judging that day. They don't help, but even Dorian had tats and look at him...

Your best bet is to use heavy tanning like protan and it will cover a lot up.

[littlearm]

I'd say that even just 5 years ago, it was pretty rare to see a bodybuilder on stage at an amateur show with large tattoos. Nowadays, it's fairly common. While some judges may look down upon them, by now there will probably be enough ink on stage that any negative impact should be minor. Just focus on your physique and you should be fine.

That being said, for people who don't have any tattoos and want to compete seriously in bodybuilding, I would suggest not getting tattoos. Even if it doesn't hurt your placing, it could definitely hurt your chances of getting photo work.

[dvsness]

It's fine, and quite common.

[shawnajewell]

Although tattoos aren't ideal as they can detract from the physique, there aren't any rules against them. However, if judges are looking at 2 physiques that are otherwise equal in size, symmetry and conditioning, there is a good possibility that the physique with tattoos would be placed below the one without. Appearance (skin tone, color, etc.) is part of the judging, but it shouldn't affect you horribly. I would advise not to get any more though if you plan to continue competing in bodybuilding.

[TimmiiV]

from what i've noticed, they don't detract from the points. that is if there is a clear winner. if it's extremely close, they will take a look and make a decision on that, but my dad has plenty of tattoo's and recently discovered the use of heavy tanning products that almost hide the tattoo's as well as clear up any blemishes on the skin!

[gurave710]

Nice article. By organic one could pop out many things. Best Regards