Philip Fusco is beach-body ready
In the world of fitness modelling, one of the big names and in-demand bodies is Philip Fusco.
Fusco grew up in New York City, getting his start in the modelling world as a teenager when he was discovered on MySpace. Now, in his 30s, it’s clear that the camera still loves every inch of Philip Fusco. In this shoot - by photographer Armando Adajar - Fusco is showcasing our HUNK swimwear range.
We love the way that he’s able to subtly show off the reversible design of the swimwear - it’s a feature that we’re really proud of, and you can see why these bold colours and patterns are going to turn heads wherever you wear them.
After the photo-shoot was done and dusted, we took the opportunity to ask Fusco about life, swimwear, and hot tips for the summer.
Swimwear styles
“I go for shorts, not the briefs…” explains Fusco, when I ask which style of swimwear he prefers.
“My favorite style is the shorts that come to just above the knee - stopping at the meaty part of the leg.”
Swim-shorts are generally the preferred option for guys from North America, however on the beaches of Europe you’ll generally see guys of all shapes, sizes, and sexualities embracing the swim-brief.
So, as well as personal preference, your choice of swimwear is likely to be influenced by your vacation destination.
“My number-one destination is the Bahamas…” confirms Fusco, as we discuss which destinations are at the top of his travel wish-list. “I stay at Atlantis on Paradise Island.” On the beaches of Europe you’ll generally see guys of all shapes, sizes, and sexualities embracing the swim-brief
I asked him if he had any summer skin-care tips for guys who are going on a beach vacation.
Fitness motivation
To maintain a physique like Philip Fusco, you’ve got to be taking your health and fitness fairly seriously.
Many of us have ambitions of hitting the gym hard and getting lean and strong, but it takes a lot of focus and persistence to achieve the results needed to land a magazine cover or swimwear campaign.
“I stay motivated because self-care and self-love is extremely important - as long as it isn’t overdone…” explains Fusco, when I ask him how he stays motivated on the health and fitness front.
“Looking your best will translate into feeling your best. If you feel your best, you’ll be a much better person - kindness will radiate, and the world will be a better place.
Of course, there are days that I don’t want to go to the gym. I try to take one day off each week.
If I’m not feeling motivated but it’s not my day off, then I force myself to go.
I know that I’ll be feeling like a million bucks by the time I leave the gym.”
Insta inspiration
In today’s world, building a career as a successful model requires a lot more than just looking good and knowing how to work a camera.
Social media is a key tool in building a following and creating commercial opportunities.
Fusco’s Instagram game is particularly strong - he’s got about 130K followers watching his every move.
“I decide what to post based on a couple of factors…” says Fusco, when I ask him if he feels a bit of pressure to present a specific perspective on his life and career through his Insta posts.
“If I feel the photo is worthy of being seen by the world, or if I feel that the photo could benefit at least one person in some way.
I hope my posts motivate people - that’s my intention.”
Plans for the future
The career of most male models is relatively brief, but Fusco has been stripping off for the camera for more than a decade.
“I’ve been modeling since I was 17…” confirms Fusco, when I ask him about some of the high-points of his career so far.
“There’s been a lot of highlights - working with Armando on this shoot is definitely one of them.
I’m proud of all the magazine shoots and TV shows that I’ve done.
Plus, shooting in Australia was one of my most memorable trips.”
“I just want to keep inspiring people…” shrugs Fusco, when we talk about what the future might hold.
“Giving out fitness and training advice, and hopefully making covers for as long as possible.”