Fitness & Bodybuilding is the fourth title in Marie Porter's Spandex Simplified series, and is all about designing and creating spectacular and durable posing suits for fitness athletes of all disciplines - Figure, Bodybuilding, Sports Model, Fitness, and more.

This book is appropriate for beginner to advanced levels of sewing ability, and is written from both a designer, and former "performance" athlete's point of view. It will teach everything from the basics, to tricks of the trade. Spandex Simplified: Fitness and BodyBuilding will prepare the reader to design and make almost any design of posing suit or routine costume imaginable!

Given the cost of decent competition bikinis, this manual can more than pay for itself with the savings from just one project.

The entire book is written completely in laymans' terms and carefully explained, step by step. Only basic sewing knowledge and talent is required. Learn everything from measuring, to easily creating ornate applique designs, to embellishing the finished suit in one book!

Please note: As spandex patterning and sewing techniques are largely the same across many styles of costuming, a large portion of each Sewing with Spandex title is the same/similar to the other Sewing with Spandex titles. We recommend consulting the Table of Contents for each book you're considering:

Basic Principles of Fitness Design

- Proper Fit & Design Considerations
- Figure Flaw Camouflage
- Designing for the Competitor
- Designing for the Music
- Visibility
- Functionality
- Colour Theory
- Choosing a Posing Suit Colour
- Unity
- Selecting Fabrics

Pattern Alterations

- Measuring
- Using a Pattern
- Sizing a Pattern
- Adding Length
- Removing Length
- Adjusting Curve of the Back
- Adjusting the Butt Length
- Adjusting for Leg Openings
- Adjusting the Skirt Line
- Base Pattern Alteration Final Notes

Sewing Techniques

- In the Beginning
- Cutting the Fabric
- Seams
- Elastic Application
- Thread Colour Selection
- Colour Blocking
- Applique
- Lace Overlays
- Piping
- Contrasting Elastic Binding
- Lining
- Hems
- Zippers
- Closures
- Making Straps
- Making Strings
- Hems

Posing Suits

- Basic Triangle Top
- Strappy Underwire Top
- Basic Bikini Bottom
- Basic String Bottom
- Strappy Bikini Bottom
- Basic Mens Posing Suit
- Strappy Mens Posing Suit
- Basic One Piece Posing Suit
- Underwired One Piece Posing Suit
- Keyhole Underwired One Piece Posing Suit

Routine Costumes

- Basic Assembly
- Sports Bras
- Tights
- Booty Shorts
- Applying a Sleeve
- Backs and Necklines

Embellishments

- Hand Painting
- Foil Embossing
- Glitter
- Crystals
- Sequins

Accessories

- Scrunchies
- Wristlets, Leg Warmers, Padding Covers

Proper Care of Competition Wear

Resources

Note Pages