How does it feel to be a model for a day?

We asked our athletes how it felt to participate in our Jockey® activewear photo shoot.  We wanted to know their take on using “real people/athletes” vs. professional models.   Here’s what some of them had to say:

“I think we are all REAL ATHLETES.  Those of us who enjoy and participate regularly in physical activity enjoy the benefits physically and emotionally as well as socially all year long.  I love that more companies are starting the “real people” campaigns.  I have seen many friends affected by eating disorders and think that to the extent we can change the perception of what is healthy and fit, we can provide people with more realistic expectations and goals.  I also think that everyone needs to look inward and be happy with who they are and compare themselves with others or social norms less.  I love that Jockey is recognizing the “real” people out there who are working hard to feel good, be healthy and happy with themself.  THANK YOU!” - Keri, Rock Climber

“Whatever motivates and inspires others is my take. Whether you like to skate in a park or prefer to do yoga, as long as the reaction is positive, that’s what it’s all about.” – Sabin, Skateboarder

“First, I have to say that I had an absolute blast being a “model” for the Jockey® shoot!  Everyone was so nice and friendly and made everything fun.  Even though the professional models most likely make things easier for the photographers as they probably don’t ask so many questions and know what they are looking for, I feel that the “real athletes” capture the “essence” better – instead of “pretending” to run, I was really running, focused, and thoroughly enjoying it!” – Jenny, Long Distance Runner

“I think by using real athletes in photo shoots shoppers don’t have to be convinced to buy something.  They can see a true taste of what items look like on the “real” people who wear them.” – Stacy, Swimmer

“My body has been shaped the way it is from the sports that I have played.  A professional model pretends to be something they are not or plays the part to appease the general public.  They become a prop that is fictional and unrealistic.   A real athlete model stands for something that is pure, honest and true.” – Kara, Dancer

“The real athlete’s motivation for doing what he or she does is internal, while the stereotypical model finds their motivation externally from other sources.  The genuine athletes do what they do, no matter what the conditions are, no matter if anyone is watching or cheering for them, no matter what time of the day, no matter how they feel, they do it.  Many times, it can be very lonely, where it is you versus yourself; the real athlete tries to be better than last time, at each practice, at each press, at each mile.  They push themselves to be faster, stronger, and more agile.  When they realize that they have given all they can and can give no more, that’s when they know they have done their best.” – Neil, Racquetball player

“I think that using “real athletes” instead of models for this shoot made a lot of sense.  Most athletes are muscular and fit. I think this is an important quality when modeling athletic clothing. While a professional model may be in good shape, they do not have the same build.” –Julie, Soccer

Want to learn more about our featured athletes?  read their bios

What’s your opinion on using real people in a photo shoot instead of professional models?