Getting a Tattoo

June 21, 2011 // Al Kavadlo

Tattoos and working out have a lot in common. Both are a means of beautifying the body, both involve mental toughness (and can help develop that mindset) and both involve putting yourself through an ordeal in order to achieve a desired outcome. They can also both become a little addictive once you get going!

I got most of my tattoos during my teens and early twenties, but recently I was once again hit with the itch for some new ink. Since I already have script writing on my wrists and neck, I decided to get similar lettering on my ankles in order to tie it all together. I chose the words “Decision” and “Action” because that’s about as succinctly as I can sum up the formula for success. You have to follow through with your plans, otherwise they are totally useless. It’s good to be reminded of that, and now I will be every day.

New Tattoos and Working Out
Since this particular tattoo was relatively small, the healing process didn’t interrupt my workout regimen. However, other pieces that I’ve gotten have required a few days off from training (which is part of the reason why I’ve slowed down with acquiring new ink). Larger tattoos and those in sensitive areas (knees, ribs, elbows, etc.) tend to require the most rest time.

I get a lot of questions about my tattoos and the tattoo process, so I decided to bring my camera along with me and get a little footage during my recent appointment with one of NYC’s top ink-slingers, Alex Sherker of East Side Ink.

Watch the video below to see how it went: