A career in professional modeling is a prestigious one. Many people spend years trying to break into the modeling industry and few succeed. The life of a professional model is one filled with challenges, expectations and an incredible amount of discipline. More than anything, a model must be regimented and disciplined. Many people think they want to be a professional model but do not fully understand how high the expectations will be. Before committing to becoming a professional model, it is advisable to give a great deal of thought to the realities of professional modeling.

One of the toughest challenges of being a professional model is the diet you must follow. Models are known for their trim figures and absence of fat. This is not by accident. Models are very careful and diligent about monitoring what they eat so as to control their weight. Not only do models eat healthier foods than the average person, they also eat smaller portions, and deny themselves many foods that the average person would call a staple.

In order to stay toned and fit, models also exercise religiously. Every day, they put themselves through a workout routine that burns calories and sculpts their bodies. Even when they are tired, sick or simply not in the mood, they still have to follow through with exercising. This is an expectation that is enforced on every model. Cellulite and flab are not an option for a professional model.

And lastly, the work schedule and lifestyle of a professional model is a challenging one. A professional model must be willing to be incredibly mobile as their work often forces them to travel. Photo shoots, fashion shows and other appearances may be located near or far and the model must be willing to travel. Not only that, but a professional model may have an extremely full schedule. They may be due to appear in a number of places within a short amount of time, and staying on top of the work schedule is essential.