Jerry Brainum delves into the potential pitfalls of having numerous tattoos as a competitive bodybuilder.
Tattoos enjoy far greater acceptance now than in the past. This trend is evident within the realm of bodybuilding, where it’s become increasingly common for contestants to showcase more extensive tattoos on stage. However, do these extensive tattoos hinder their chances of winning? And what other lesser-known risks might bodybuilders face? In our most recent episode of Straight Facts, Jerry Brainum explores the possible health hazards and competitive drawbacks of extensive tattoos in bodybuilding.
Jerry Brainum aims not to offend anyone, nor does he want to be overly critical of those who choose to express themselves through tattoos. Therefore, before diving into this episode, he makes it clear that he doesn’t condemn individuals with tattoos. Brainum firmly believes that a person’s value or character shouldn’t be judged based on their body art.
However, in the domain of competitive bodybuilding, tattoos have a more pronounced impact on the perception of one’s physique. Rather than evaluating the morality of tattoos, Brainum focuses on their objective effects on competitive bodybuilders. Let’s dissect it further.
Can extensive tattoos adversely affect competitive bodybuilders?
Jerry Brainum starts by explaining the clear distinction between having a simple tattoo and having numerous ones. He doesn’t believe that one or two tattoos will significantly impact a bodybuilder. However, numerous tattoos, such as full-body art or “sleeves” that cover large areas of the physique, can theoretically pose more significant issues.
Jerry Brainum highlights that the objective of competitive bodybuilding is to showcase your physique and compare it with others. Extensive tattoos can make it more challenging to see a bodybuilder’s definition, as they can obscure muscle clarity—especially dark tattoos filled with black ink. This isn’t merely about personal preference but a logical point: if judges can’t clearly view the details of your physique, they can’t score you as highly as others on stage.
Are there potential health risks associated with tattoos?
Apart from the competitive bodybuilding stage, there are other minor yet potentially hazardous risks to consider before getting extensive tattoos. As Jerry Brainum noted, tattoos can hide or obscure early signs of skin cancer. Skin discolorations or moles, which serve as warning signs, might be harder to detect underneath extensive dark tattoos.
Jerry Brainum also refers to a study showing that extensive tattoos can reduce your sweat rate by 50%, which can be more detrimental for bodybuilders. Reduced sweating might complicate workouts. Additionally, on competition day, the bright lights and extended comparison rounds can become even more challenging.
Finally, Jerry Brainum cites studies indicating the toxic risks associated with tattoos. Although he mentions few anecdotal reports of illness caused by tattoos, it’s not entirely out of the question.
Various studies have demonstrated infection or disease risks if tattoo artists do not follow proper hygiene practices. Moreover, some studies have identified contaminants, including carcinogens, in certain inks. While the risk is minimal for simple tattoos, those who cover significant body areas with dense coloration increase their risk.
Wrap Up
Ultimately, Jerry Brainum reiterates that he doesn’t intend to use scare tactics to demonize tattoos. While society shouldn’t regard tattooing as entirely harmless, the overall risk is very low. However, competitive bodybuilders should consider more carefully whether to get extensive tattoos, as they can potentially impair sweat rate and complicate training. Most crucially, extensive tattoos can obscure your muscle definition on stage.
Catch Jerry Brainum’s detailed discussion on tattoos and bodybuilding in our latest episode of Straight Facts above. Make sure to tune in every Wednesday for new episodes of Straight Facts!