Beauty and Beastmode

When I write about show prep for the bodybuilding competitions I do, most of my posts are about the more “masculine” side:  lifting weights, supplements, the science of food and body composition.  I’m comfortable in that Beastmode space.  From climbing the corporate ladder to being the youngest kid (and the only girl) to jump off the high dive board at the quarry, I always was on a mission to prove that I was just as strong, smart and tough as the boys.  (Which is why I loved that #likeagirl Super Bowl ad so much.)

But being strong doesn’t mean that I have to be a dude or dress like one.  There is another side to this sport that I’ve been ignoring, which is the more feminine aspect.

At it’s core, bodybuilding is a beauty contest, and I mean that in a good way.  Unlike Miss America, you don’t have to sing and dance or answer a question about world peace; it’s a beauty pageant in its purest form.  The judges at looking at the symmetry of your muscles, poise, and confidence reflected in your poses.  The physiques of the winners are meant to reflect the beauty of the human body, like the David sculpture for men or paintings of Greek goddesses for women.

But, I’m a no make-up, T-shirt and sneakers kind of gal and my hairstyle alters between “ponytail” and “messy bun on top of my head”.  Don’t get me wrong: I clean up well if I’m working in an office or going to a wedding or something, but I’ve never really been a girlie-girl.

However, for ten minutes on stage at the Arnold, I just need to get over that and have fun.  To me nothing says “Greek goddess” more than long curly hair.  For my figure competition two years ago I dyed my hair red and rented clip on extensions the morning of the show from the hairdresser.  It was fun but it was also like having an extra appendage to deal with, because I had to move it to the side while I was posing.  Now if you can walk and chew gum at the same time, this is really no big deal, but (sadly) I’m not one of those people; I should have practiced with the extensions first.

This time around, I’m sticking with my blonde hair and bought the 18″ hair extensions at a beauty supply store for $99.  It’s an upfront cost, but they last for two years and my daughter has already laid claim to them after my competition.  (She wants to be Rapunzel.)

If you are in Pflugerville, Texas and are looking for a great hair dresser, you should check out my friend Karelin Guinn at (512) 803-1639.  She did my highlights and showed me how to clip them in so I can practice with my goldie locks on my own.  She said if you curl your hair the extensions look more natural.

I’ve been having the best time with my Barbie hair!  It’s also helping me with my posing because I feel like I’m wearing a costume, and can be a character on stage.  It’s kind of fun being girlie.

How about you?  Have you ever tried hair extensions?

Lisa

Lisa Traugott is a Mom’s Choice Award winning writer, fitness blogger, wife and mom of two. You can read more about her in her new book, “She’s Losing It!” available at Amazon.com.

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