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Tell us what you think! Read what other Oxygen readers had to say and then upload your comments and photos if you have 'em!"

Outrage!
 

Lina JadeWe were stunned by the hundreds of emails and comments after we published a letter by Oxygen reader Michelle in our June 2010 issue. In response to an article that displayed fitness model Lina Jade’s shamrock tattoo, Michelle wrote: “For a magazine that promotes clean eating, healthy lifestyles and the best for your body, you featured a model with a tattoo . . . Tattoos detract from the beauty and effort of a weightlifter and are just plain ugly. Keep your standards higher.”


We could only publish a handful of your comments in the August 2010 issue, but here you'll find the rest of them (uploaded as comments).

If you want to weigh in, do so!  Add your two cents!  Also, post your own tattoo pictures if you've got ’em...


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454 Comments Post comment
By Brenda on Jul 10, 2010 - 12:49AM
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I would like to no how Michelle can say Lina does not take clean eating and a healthy lifestyle seriously. She looks amazing. I think it is time for Michelle to start considerlng investing in a pair of glasses tattoos should be the last thing on her mind.

By joanna on Jul 10, 2010 - 2:15PM
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Tattoos are the epitomy of "trailer trash". The majority of women who get them are overweight and blue collar. Love the body God gave you. No need to ink it. Why risk getting hepititis from a needle.

By Lisa on Jul 10, 2010 - 10:42PM
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Tattoos don't detract from the beauty of a healthy fit body. I think tattoos enhance the beauty like makeup or jewelry. Although I don't have a tattoo, I do have my navel pierced and I think it enhances my look. I am so glad to read that most Oxygen readers are not as judgemental and closed-minded as the Michelle who wrote the original letter in the June 2010 issue.

By Divi on Jul 11, 2010 - 1:54AM
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Hi! I have never read this mag b4 but thot i would see how the Ladies' side of the sport deals with issues. I was quite surprised with this argument. It is a non-issue! Tattoos are personal. To have or not to have, that is the question. This Michelle does not like it, so she does not like it. She obviously has no discipline to help her deal with her own issues. Please ignore her! What I would like to know is this: in the picture accompanying this article, the tattoo switched sides!! was that intentional ( like showing it looks good on either side) or an editing goof? Not that I mind!! She looks great and the tattoo is an enhancement when you look at the complete picture! I am just curious! Cheers all!!

By Rebecca on Jul 11, 2010 - 7:47AM
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Wow!! Really what century do these people live in where ppl with tattoos are trailer trash. First off who says that I am pretty sure there is things about you other people don't like. A tattoo is a piece of art work and it takes an artist to do such a thing to another person. There are a lot of uglier things out there than tattoos like the women who go to the gym who are overweight and want to want walk around in spandex and a sports bra. Come on people it's not like she had an arm sleeve of tattoos and it is where she can hide it if she wants too. Maybe all you out there who don't like her tattoo are just jealous of her body becuase she has a fantastic one so get a life. People who say things like that are just not happy about themselves and have to find some way to put another persons likes down.

By Angel on Jul 11, 2010 - 1:44PM
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Wow, Joanna. what an incredibly ignorant statement. Let me repost this for those who missed it..... By joanna on Jul 10, 2010 - 2:15PM Tattoos are the epitomy of "trailer trash". The majority of women who get them are overweight and blue collar. Love the body God gave you. No need to ink it. Why risk getting hepititis from a needle. I am a MD with multiple degrees, and a full back piece...

By Danielle on Jul 11, 2010 - 3:23PM
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Obviously the people commenting on the inappropriateness and "unhealthy living" because one has decided to tattoo themselves is completely and totally ignorant. I'm sorry to hear that people believe Hollywood's portrayal of tattooed persons as "trailer trash" is believed by the people who read this amazing magazine. I live in Louisiana, so obviously that makes me sound like "Steel Magnolias" and have "gators" running through my back yard! Hey guess what! I DON'T and not everyone who lives in Texas rides a horse everywhere. SO, therefore your theory of people who have tattoos are unhealthy....SUCKS!!! Do the rest of us tattooed, healthy, Oxygen Magazine reading ladies a favor and GET EDUCATED, because ignorance is unhealthy!

By Nomi on Jul 11, 2010 - 6:49PM
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I cant understand that in our day and age there are still people who are so close minded as to want to discriminate against body art. Who are we to judge someone's health and diminish all the hard work Lina Jade has put into looking the way she does (which is amazing). I train everyday often twice a day, I have a half sleeve and several other more conspicuous tattoos as do many women, I cant see how this is unhealthy. I am far from white trash Joanna and often get complimented on the artwork, even by 80yr ladies at the grocery store ;) Lets keep it about the fitness ladies, I see tons of male fitness models and bodybuilders who have body art. I dont see why we should be held to a different standard. Tattoos, piercings or whatever else doesnt matter when you work so hard to look and feel amazing.

By Liz on Jul 11, 2010 - 8:33PM
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As a tattooed (a backpiece, plus two others), fit and healthy person (just competed in my first show, training for my next in the fall), I was annoyed by 'Michelle's' comments and and a bit more annoyed that they were even printed. I'm also not "trailer trash" - I have two degrees, I'm working on a third and I've been working in corporate America for 11 years -- and I live in a condo, not a trailer. I'm happy to see so many positive comments about a person's choice to be tattooed in response to 'Michelle's letter' and 'Joanna's' comment. And the model with the tattoo looks fabulous!

By lyndeyoung on Jul 12, 2010 - 12:49AM
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This was just crazy, who is she to say what is attractive or not. I have a half sleeve and a large back piece and I believe that I have beautiful art work on my body. This women Michelle should be ashamed of her self.

By britney on Jul 12, 2010 - 12:25PM
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people are so annoying!!!! that means absolutley nothing just because you dont like them dosnt mean you have the right to judge her. all i have to say is GET OVER IT!

By Linda on Jul 12, 2010 - 2:32PM
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I am 54 yrs old and I love her tatoo, thought it was cute. Afterall it is her body. Why do people take things so personal. Life is to short to worry about what tatoos people have, oh and I dont have any tatoos.

By Tracey on Jul 12, 2010 - 3:15PM
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Wow! I had a feeling when I read Michelle's letter that many people were going to be offended! I agree with all who say that tattoos are an art form, a very expensive one at that. I myself do not have one, but have often thought about it, but like many have also stated, I want it to have personal meaning to me. Michelle's way of thinking is as outdated as those who still fuss over men wearing an earring! It is 2010 people!

By Kayla on Jul 12, 2010 - 7:19PM
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I am not a fitness model, nor am I in the best shape in the world. Instead, I am 17, and have been overweight for the majority of my life. For the past six months, I have been trying my hardest to change that, and have come quite a long way. For someone to judge another person because they have ink is completely ridiculous. What if this magazine put someone in that didn't have the most defined abs in the world? Would one shallow, ridiculous human being freak out? Michelle, whomever she may be, needs to shut it. Personally, I do not have a tattoo. I plan to change that when I get "Livestrong" in between my shoulder blades.. My reasons for that are what pushed me to get healthy in the first place. If I ever get the honor of making it in this magazine, I will BEG to do photos of my back so the world can see what pushes me.

By Joy on Jul 13, 2010 - 10:10AM
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I have always wanted a tattoo. After I read in the Bible in the book of Leviticus chapter 19 verse 28, I deiced not to get one for myself since GOD said not to put a tattoo marking on your body. That is my reason for not doing it. I have also read that some people do not take the proper measures when it comes to cleaning the instruments so that infections, germs and diseases will not spread from one to another. Granted this can and has happened in dentist offices as well. Maybe that was the angle Michelle was going with talking about being clean. In that respect tattoos can be "dirty". With all that said, we all have opinions and we can share them as long as we try not to offend others. We come from all backgrounds & were raised very differently from each other. I know there are people who will read my comments & think I'm stupid for following the Bible. That' ok, no harm done to me since you don't know me and I don't know you. The thing is Michelle isn't the only person who feels that way. She just happened to voice it. Many feel it's wrong to dye your hair or get breast augmentation since they aren't really "clean" and natural. It doesn't stop people from getting this done. It may not be a choice for YOU it's NOT for YOU to condemn a person because they do choose to do so.

By Shalon on Jul 14, 2010 - 1:23AM
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That is ridiculous! Way to judge a book by it's cover...never mind I can't even give you that excuse! Did you not look at the rest of her body? She is amazingly fit!!! How can someone disregard all of another person's health and fitness efforts over one square inch of their body? Do you not read other fitness publications or keep up with athletic events? People have tattoos!!! To many people they have personal meaning so how dare you allow that one aspect to mark them as a slob! Get real!!! Oxygen Magazine keep up the good work! lol maybe next time you should publish someone with a whole tattoo sleeve! That would to make things interesting!

By Bronwyn Parhad on Jul 14, 2010 - 7:57AM
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I just got my newest issue yesterday and the saga of the tattoo continues. I have 3 tattoos and love them. I didn't find anything wrong with the model's tattoo either. BTW, I am 62 years old, have read Oxygen for over 3 years, am a 9 1/2 year breast cancer survivor, and find the articles informative, helpful and continue to use the fresh new exercise ideas all the time. It's time to give it a rest! I think we need to move on.

By Maureen on Jul 14, 2010 - 11:03AM
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I can't believe that of all the things in the world that a person can complain about the topic they chose is a tatoo!! I thought we were past all the stereotypes about people with tatoos. I think they are beautiful and have special meanings to the person who has them. My husband has a small cross on his arm in rememberance of his father whom he never got to meet. Would she find my husband to be ugly because the small bit of ink on his arm? To make a assumption about a person based on the fact that they have body art is completely ignorant!! Some of the greatest people I have had the honor to meet have tatoos. I have been thinking about getting a tatoo to mark the birth of my daughter. Michelle, thanks for helping me with my decision I'm going to get the tatoo I have been thinking about for 2 years!

By Nicole on Jul 14, 2010 - 2:23PM
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I personally dont have tattoos but that doesnt make me biased against them. some of the most fit men amd women I know have tattoos. Exhibit a Bob Harper he is a beast and an awesome trainer but has many tattoos on his arms and legs as long as you keep it classy I dont see any problem and even if you dont its still not hurting me keep your body the way you want.

By Mel on Jul 14, 2010 - 6:15PM
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She is a beautiful woman and would be with or without the tattoo. Her hard work and dedication to her body are shown very well in the photos and are not detracted from in this photo. There are a lot of people writing about the disrespect she is showing her body... is there this kind of outrage over breast implants in fitness competitors? What about hair colouring? I personally don't have an issue with any of it but think that these are all personal choices that don't undermine the woman's efforts in fitness.

By Dee on Jul 14, 2010 - 6:50PM
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I love your magazine. It's so motivating. I was diappointed that I couldn't find a detailed muscle diagram in your glutes issue (which is awesome!) but it wasn't there.

By Tiana on Jul 14, 2010 - 7:15PM
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I don't have a tatoo myself and never will, but that is my choice. I cannot deem someone unworthy to be featured in Oxygen because they have one. That's just silly. Tiana

By Sara D on Jul 14, 2010 - 8:58PM
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Wow, it shocks me every time I hear people talk about tattoo's being bad. While working in the investment industry I was once told that I don't look like the tattoo type by someone I worked with. I asked them, "Tell me, what is the tattoo type?" Funny thing is, they couldn't answer me. I now work in the health food and supplement industry, work out four to five days a week and proudly have eight tattoos and show them off, as well as my fit physique. All of the women, and men, who come in and ask me for advice don't care that I have tattoos, they just want good advice so they can meet their health and fitness goals. I love Oxygen, I've read them for years and will continue to read them for years to come.

By Jenny on Jul 14, 2010 - 9:16PM
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I am an avid reader and into a healthy lifestyle, I love the fact that you feature real women and Tattoos are part of the real world out there. There is nothing dirty or unhealthy about them. Kudos to you guys for not covering the tattoo. I also have 4 tattoos they are an expression of me.

By Jody on Jul 15, 2010 - 1:27AM
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I was so glad to see that oxygen had devoted an entire page of their website for this ridiculous comment, and am so glad that many people also voiced their outrage about Michelle's statement. I am 22, have been working out, and reading Oxygen since I was 16. I have raised money and walked miles for breast cancer, I attended Jen's PHAT camp this year, and I motivate and teach many people how to lead healthier lifestyles. I take pole dancing classes, and will be teaching them myself soon. I take care of myself, and have a lot of self-awareness- and guess what? I have a half sleeve, my ribs are done, I have a tattoo on the back of my neck, and on my back. This is not unhealthy. It is a lifestyle choice, just like fitness is. To take away from this models hard work and to just focus on her tattoo was rude and revolting. If you don't like it fine, but don't rip on others choice and make ignorant comments about how it affects fitness.

By Diana on Jul 15, 2010 - 11:12PM
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tattoos are such a beautiful form of art i think, personally!! they are a different form of expression as is any piercing, haircut, or clothing choice for that matter!! ....i always wonder what is behind other peoples tattoos when i see them, because i know that my own tattoo has such a strong meaning for me!! people need to stop judging others on such a surface level. i personally thought it was pretty awesome that the tat wasnt airbrushed out or anything. shows she is a real, strong, woman. as all of us are!!

By Ilona on Jul 16, 2010 - 8:36AM
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Kudos for you for not aribrushing out the tatoo! Thank you for being the only magazine that doesn't airbrush these beautiful ladies! It is refreshing to see that in the day and age where you could. I say lave in the tatoos. Besides, I have 5-6 scars of varying sizes that I haven't covered with tatoos. They are from a battle I had with cancer and I wear them proudly. They are faded now, but if I ever was lucky enough and fit enough to be in your magazine, I would hope that you wouldn't airbrush them out. They are apart of me and my life and my struggles and my triumphs. They are real and they are a part of me. And Oxygen magazine is about the real woman, tatoos, scars and all. Thank you 02!!

By roxymaniac on Jul 16, 2010 - 2:21PM
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Seriously? If you can't look past tattoo's, you're incredibly shallow and old-fashioned. Sheesh. The magazine is about empowering women, respecting them for their hardwork and dedication to exercise and diet. Get over yourself.

By Kaycie Leigh on Jul 16, 2010 - 10:13PM
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In regards to tattoos - I think it is to each their own. I personally don't have tattoo's, but I don't mind seeing them in a magazine or on a model. Some actually perfectly accentuate the certain area that the tattoo is placed on. The only thing I am ever disappointed in seeing, is when a magazine chooses to sometimes show a tattoo and other times not (on the same person). Within a different fitness magazine publication, they chose to re-touch the cover and take away a model's tattoo and within the about the cover model section left it unedited with her tattoo visible. I think whichever publication should in the least be consistent (as Oxygen seems to be) and embrace the differences in models. I think Oxygen has done a great job in the present and past in holding both these qualities.

By Sharon on Jul 17, 2010 - 7:09PM
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Michelle seems like a very close minded person and maybe a little uneducated at that. Having a tattoo does not mean you are any less of a physically apt person. Having a tattoo in no way interferes with clean eating or the way you life your life. That's not even a valid argument as to why she shouldn't have been featured in the magazine. Someone please tell me how clean eating correlates with a tattoo. I'm having trouble understanding where the connection between the two comes from. FIRST OF ALL. The tattoo is on her inner pelvic area and does not distract you from the rest of her body. The fact that people are so wound up about a small tattoo is completely ridiculous. It's 2010 and most of America's younger population has them now. Get used to it. SECOND. I just came back from Washington's Natural Bodybuilding and Figure Championship preshow. GUESS WHAT AMERICA!? Some competitors had tattoos. YEP. I know it's really hard for you to wrap your simple and closed minds around the fact that bodybuilders could even fathom such a thing, but yes, yes they did. Some had larger tattoos than the ones the featured model is sporting in the pictures you complained about. I know that gave you a heart attack just thinking about it. Everything's going to be ok. Just breathe.

By Toni on Jul 17, 2010 - 7:38PM
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You know what is funny? After reading about the outrage of this tattoo being in the picture I realized that I read the entire article and never once notice the tattoo until now!!! I was just admiring her great figure and soaking up all the good information.

By Lindsay on Jul 17, 2010 - 8:43PM
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This is the second tattoo I had done. I got it for my grandmother who passed away. Her name was "Empress," and I did it under a dove because of the peace it represents, she always wore a dove necklace and always had a way of making peace amongst family members. I was very close to her and it is one way I have coped with the pain of losing her. I miss that she will not be there to see me get married or have my first baby. She was not there when I graduated from college and walked the stage. When I was growing up there was never an event she missed. It's sad to think that they will never know her, but this dove gives me a small amount of comfort.

By Francesca Elliott on Jul 18, 2010 - 8:08PM
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Women need to support each other more. I'm so tired of the cattiness. Why are we so judgemental against each other rather than helping each other? Just because someone has a tatto, it doesn't take away from her body and showing her hard work. I applaud Oxygen for showing women with tatoos rather than making it seem like it's a deformity that shouldn't be shown. With all the plastic women out there and photoshopping of pictures, it's nice to see a real woman!

By Salina on Jul 19, 2010 - 3:47AM
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To Judge a woman based on something so personal is appalling. Although I'm sure in Michelle's case she is just Jealous of Lina's perfect figure. Maybe Michelle is sitting at home with 15 extra pounds of judgement and criticism around her waist and feels the need to call something on Lina's beautiful body "ugly" to make her feel better about her own ugliness. In any case. PLEASE show us the type of diversity you have in the past. I am always frustrated when people write saying that you should not show young/old/pregnant/anybody other than their selves. I love all of the healthy role models that grace your pages. Keep it coming oxygen!

By Olivia - St Louis on Jul 19, 2010 - 3:54AM
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I just have to say that though I value the freedom of speech, since I served this great country; beauty is in the eye of the beholder and to just merely say that tattoos are ugly seems like nothing more than one persons opinion. If you like tattoos or you don't, fine. If it is not on your body than do not concern yourself. We have far greater issues than to debate merely opinions.

By Sarah on Jul 19, 2010 - 4:14AM
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I personally think tattoos are ugly. I'm not judging people who have them, it's their choice to put it on their body. I don't think they're less of a person. I just think they ruin a person's appearance. They are a distraction from your natural beauty. I don't understand why a person would put something so permanent on their body. What's much more alarming to me are the provocative ads Oxygen has been running for a little while now. I don't understand why they have to pair fitness with sex. I throw the magazines away right after reading so my daughter will not see them and think she should be like that. In fact, if they keep running the trashy ads, I will not resubscribe.

By Jennifer on Jul 19, 2010 - 4:17AM
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Wow, even my ultra-conservative 80 year old grandfather is more with the times than Michelle! In his words: "Get with the times!" I am one of the most respectful, professional and healthy people that I know and I have a tattoo that covers my entire back and one on my wrist. People are always surprised when they find out i have a tattoo because "i don't seem like that type of person." Having a tattoo doesn't change who i am, i doesn't mean that i don't care about my health or my body. Tattoos are expressions... a judgmental attitude is what is ugly.

By Jessica on Jul 19, 2010 - 4:22AM
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I like everyone's comments. I agree...a tattoo has NOTHING to do with health, fitness and overall health. This is what Oxygen Mag is all about...helping women to become and stay healthy. It's not to judge. The model is BEAUTIFUL and even if she had tattoos like she was on Prison Break, she's still got a SMOKIN healthy bod.

By Jasmine on Jul 19, 2010 - 4:57AM
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Just because someone has a tattoo doesn't mean they don't work out or diet as hard. Having a tattoo doesn't make them any less than 'high standard'. Dear Michelle, I'm sorry you judged Lina based on her tattoo and not her dedication and commitment in training. She has a stunning figure and obviously works hard for it. But you missed it because you were too busy snubbing her tattoo! I love being fit, and I think the right tattoo can enhance someone's body. Most of all, I don't think having a model with a tattoo has undermined Oxygen magazine at all!

By Chris on Jul 19, 2010 - 5:16AM
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I noticed that most of the replies on this subject were from those that HAVE tattoos stating that they are not "ugly" and a person's right and prerogative to have on their body. Now a note from a MAN who has NO tattoos. I personally feel they detract from a person's looks, both male and female, and while I don't want to get into the argument of whether it is wrong or right (we can and should do as we please with our bodies) I did want to voice that from an attraction standpoint, it detracts incredibly for me personally to see a tattoo on a woman's body, wherever it may be. Oftentimes the tattoos are placed in areas where the woman doesn't have to see them, but everyone else does....why is that? It is your right to change and alter your body through makeup, tattoos, piercings, etc., but at the same time, you have to also respect the very fact that those decisions impact the way you are viewed, your attraction level to the opposite sex, and yes even thought it isn't right, how you are perceived sometimes professionally. That being said, while it's your right to choose to get a tattoo and wear it proudly, it's also my right to not be attracted to you, and repulsed by it on a visceral level as a result of my own mechanisms that define beauty and what I like and don't like. While I won't judge or tell you you are wrong to alter your body in any way you choose, you should also be tolerant of my right to not like the choice you made to alter your body. It works both ways.

By Michaela Stone on Jul 19, 2010 - 5:36AM
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Well, what on earth is wrong with tattoos? If someone chooses to have one - or several for that matter - what's the problem? To say it lowers Oxygen's standards by showing a model with one is beyond ludicrous!!! Good grief! What century is this girl living in? A personal choice is just that. She looks amazing - and besides - her little tattoo is waaay smaller than mine!! Keep it real Oxygen - and don't let such jaundiced comments make you alter your great magazine.

By sara Burns on Jul 19, 2010 - 5:39AM
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Not everyone agrees with tattoos but to make that comment was very close minded.The saying "dont judge a book by its cover" springs to mind. I love Oxygen before i found this magazine i was stuggling this magazine helped my training and my diet habits. I'm healthier and happier now. wether a model has a tattoo or not is really not an issue. I find Tattoos can be amazing works of heart and symbols of hope or inspiration for people who have them.

By Twyla on Jul 19, 2010 - 5:41AM
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Love Oxygen, do NOT like tatoos. It's a personal thing, obviously, but IMO, tatoos place permanent "flaws" on an otherwise beautiful masterpiece.

By Angie Christine on Jul 19, 2010 - 5:48AM
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I have already sent an email as I was one that was outraged! My tattoo is the Crown of Thorns which is a full arm band on my left arm. It represents what Christ did for me and I wear one in honor of His life and His death. How could that possibly be ugly. This is only one of four tattoos that I have. I am in the best shape of my life at 36. The tattoos do not change my eating habits or my workouts. Just plain ignorant of the reader to make such comments.

By Alison on Jul 19, 2010 - 5:53AM
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omg.. some of you are so small minded. I have 3 tattoos, one being my childrens names and they dont hinder my training in ANY WAY. Do you think we sit there all day looking at our tattoos in the mirror and forget to work out?? I got my first tattoo just before my 40th and the second two just 4 months ago.. to you one minded idiots.. try asking us about our tats and I bet some of us have a story behind them!! As for Oxygen Mag.. you guys rock! keep up the good work!!!

By Cheri on Jul 19, 2010 - 5:56AM
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They are not for me but if that's what some people like it's their choice. I really don't like them on women's arms though. I've seen women with half and full sleeves and I just think it makes them look trashy. They fade so much too. Do you know that when iron oxide (or any kind of) tattoos migrate they go right into your lymph node system. That can't be healthy. I've read that permanent makeup (which I've considered) is becoming 'all the rage' too and when it fades (and it does) you have to have it 'touched' up. I just don't know it I'd want those 'metals' so close to my brain. I've also read that Heavy metal build up in your brain helps to cause dementia and altzheimer's (spelling?).

By Jennifer in Dubai on Jul 19, 2010 - 5:58AM
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I love Oxygen and read it cover to cover - EVERY MONTH! I was appalled to read Michelle's letter. As much as she's entitled to her own opinion, how dare she suggest the magazine has low standards! Michelle - Newsflash: YOU DO NOT SPEAK FOR ALL OF US! I don't have a single tattoo, but would never bat an eyelid or judge someone that has a bit of ink to differentiate themselves. You're suggesting that people with tattoos are dirty and unhealthy - what era are you from, the 1940's? WOW! That was a really intelligent comment on your part - or was it? I bet you're one of those "wanna-be's", that buys the magazine in the hopes it will make you fit and lean. LOL! Just for that - I'm going to get a tattoo! By the way - whatever happened to that age old saying - erm, Freedom of choice and expression

By Angie on Jul 19, 2010 - 5:59AM
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I just zoomed by all the comments to excitedly add my photo. I then went back to see my comment is number 15. Thanks for allowing your readers a voice! Now I have to go read the mag as I must have missed that part. Thanks Oxygen for having your readers involved in the magazine

By Julie on Jul 19, 2010 - 5:59AM
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I happen to have several tattoos and I am of the belief that everyone has their own idea of beauty. Not everyone is into tattoos but to make a comment with that kind of bite is harsh.

By Katharine on Jul 19, 2010 - 6:46AM
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Beauty is in the eyes of the beholder. Whatever we do should glorify God. We take care of what He gives us & some of us like to decorate it with works of art! Most tats have special meanings or cover something that we may not care to see. Either way, for those of us who choose to wear tattoos, please remember we have feelings too! I choose to wear tattoos for both reasons. Does that make me less beautiful? I don't think so. God doesn't make junk.

By Donna on Jul 19, 2010 - 6:47AM
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I have a tatoo and would NEVER recommend anyone get one, because what you like at age 18, you are sick of at age 48. Tatoos are in fashion NOW, but when I see beautiful young men and women marking up their bodies, ESPECIALLY their wrists and necks, I fell sorry for them because they don't know how bad they look and how much they will regret it later. Peoples perceptions of a tatooed person are NOT favorable. Tatooing is a huge mistake and is NOT beautiful!

By Laurie on Jul 19, 2010 - 6:56AM
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I do not have any tattoos, I am 44 yrs old and don't want any. I can't even tell you why, but I have two ugly scars on each thigh from a surgery to remove lumps I had when I was just under two. I think maybe because they are permanent I don't want anything else permanent on my body. I was not offended by that one tattoo, and as long as they are in good taste and not overdone I think it is O.K.. However, I think I like the purest route. Clean eating, killer workouts, bodies showing Excellence, TOO many tattoos might detract from that. But, I don't mind that one. She looked awesome. But, I would not want it to become the norm.!:) Where do you draw the line? I think the editors are capable of making the best choices and they but out a first rate magazine! Keep up the producing the best magazine ever!!

By Rebecca on Jul 19, 2010 - 6:59AM
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I agree with Michelle. I find tattoos to be a base form of body mutilation, not "art." Tattoos expose wearers to public humiliation, bias, and prejudice. The practice is also a health hazard, despite government regulations. There is nothing beautiful about them. It's sad that so many women followed a ridiculous trend that will no doubt be out of style in a decade or two, leaving them with a sagging symbol of some life experience and the regret that they chose to leave a permanent mark to commemorate it.

By Boycie on Jul 19, 2010 - 7:15AM
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You can't please all of the people all of the time, but it does show you portray real women and don't feel the need to airbrush models to make them perfect - more of the same please, I say!!

By jessie on Jul 19, 2010 - 7:16AM
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i have seen some tattoos i didn't really like and some really amazing ones but, i have yet to see one that didn't have some special meaning to the person who had it put on. it is a personal choice. i didn't even notice the tattoo when i first read the article and had to go back and see what all the fuss was about. after looking at it i thought wow look at her abs. what is all the fuss about? if it was a magazine about tattoos then i would understand. it is not so focus on all the hard work she put in to having such a amazing body and not the art work she has.

By Kate on Jul 19, 2010 - 7:20AM
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I don't have any tattoos, not that it matters one way or the other. The first thing I notice about Lina Jade is not her tattoo, and I feel sad for Michelle that she can't see past it. I don't think it detracts from her beauty and hard work at all - in fact, it's part of who she is, so it actually contributes to her beauty. Only thing ugly here is the judgemental attitude. As for standards, I would be terribly disappointed in Oxygen if they were to disregard all the hard work that goes into achieving a figure like Lina's just because of how she chooses to decorate that hard-earned figure.

By Melody Gardner on Jul 19, 2010 - 7:22AM
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I've been reading Oxygen since its inception in 1997 (and have the back issues to prove it!) You've always been the magazine that "pushed the envelope" and didn't hold back. So, for one small-minded person to slam a beautiful, hard-working female with a great body because she chose to personally express herself with body art is just proof that you need to keep doing what you do! I have a tattoo across the small of my back and it reads "Illigitimati non carborundum." Loosely translated in Latin, it means, "Don't let the bastards wear you down!" Never has it been more appropriate to share that message with others!

By Judi on Jul 19, 2010 - 7:26AM
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I love Oxygen and find inspiration everytime I read and reread my issues. I saw the letter about the tattoos as well as all the comments about Michelles's comment. I think one thing that is being missed here is that everyone has a right to an opinion. One person can see something as beautiful and another can see it as ugly. I myself have a tattoo and have plans to get another. My best friend sees them as "trashy", but that's her opinion. We all have a right to express ourselves wether it be body ink, piercings or pink hair. We may not like someone's opinion, but we do live in a free country.

By Lillian on Jul 19, 2010 - 7:29AM
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I'm not a tattoo fan myself. I buy this magazine to learn more about being healthy & fit & strong. I do think some tattoos take away from the natural beauty of the body. I would rather not see them all over the magazine. I think Oxygen has keep it's magazine very tasteful and I think it should continue to do that. I believe someone made the comment that tattoos are a very personal thing. If that is the case all the more reason to keep the tattoos out of the magazine.

By Allyson Robb on Jul 19, 2010 - 7:29AM
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I'm not a fan of tattoos, and I don't have an issue with people who have tattoos - it's another form of body art. Live and let live I say. It's great that one woman's comments has generated such a wealth of discussion. Don't change what you're doing Oxygen - Ally from Bellshill, Scotland

By Krystal on Jul 19, 2010 - 7:39AM
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Really all this because a model has a tattoo is it or isn't it 2010 I think we need to get over the whole tatoo stigma.

By Jeanne on Jul 19, 2010 - 7:42AM
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Tattoo I know are a very person choice..I never got one since I never could decide on what I would permanently want or location of my body I wanted to put it. But as a lover of how awesome the body looks fit and how appreciate of the hard work it takes to look fit and healthy. Over the years I have come to despise the look of tattoos especially on women. In my eyes a womens body who is fit and toned looks so much more beautiful and natural without a tattoo!! I am going to be the proudest women when I get old and people will say who's Jeanne?? oh she the one with NO tattoo's!

By Kerry on Jul 19, 2010 - 7:45AM
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My tattoos are totems and physical celebrations of my life journey. I believe that tattoos are art and should be celebrated as such, wherever we find them.

By Sarah on Jul 19, 2010 - 7:49AM
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Tattoos aren't ugly, but they have seen their day

By Staci on Jul 19, 2010 - 7:52AM
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I think that anyone so closed minded should hop back in their time machine because the 50's are calling. Its just like saying the color of your skin or a birth mark on your face makes you different and if your not like me, your ugly. Where do these people come from, Uranus? We live in a world with so much discrimination and hate as it is and we still have people who hate on you just to be hurtful and mean. Can't we all just get a long and stop being ugly to each other?!?

By Melissa Engelman on Jul 19, 2010 - 7:54AM
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There is absolutely nothing wrong with tattoos. I have two myself and love them. Every tattoo you see is very individual and mean?s something to the person that has it. Just because you don?t understand it doesn?t make it wrong or ugly. Are we becoming that shallow that we don't even notice the athletic body of the model or what she is trying to show / teach us, but instead a small tattoo? What is wrong with women these days? Why is it that so many women pick each other apart or say nasty thing just too supposedly make them feel better. Let's stop cutting each other down and celebrate the fact that we are all different. We all have different ideas of what beauty is so let?s just let each of our uniqueness come out. Put in the hard work and you too will reap the benefits. If those women don't want to work hard and eat right and strive for a healthy lifestyle, then they can just shut the H*** Up!

By Jet on Jul 19, 2010 - 7:56AM
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I love your mag, the women you feature are amazing & so inspiring. I would rather cut off my hand then get a tat.. I love my body the way it was made.. I think they are ugly & that they detract from true beauty. They are a distraction TO ME. I've heaps of friends with them. Some for incredible reminders of loved ones or events... Others out of boredom & as a cry for attention. I can handle a model with tat in your mag, I choose to look deeper. We all have our preferances..and that's what makes the world go round!

By Donna Jeske on Jul 19, 2010 - 7:57AM
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I have three tatoos and I love them. One on the anle, lower back and upper back. They are not ugly by any way. As soon as I have a flatter stomach area (because of Oxygen and Eating Clean) I hope to get one on my lower front stomach. Oxygen continue to show the beautiful women with or without tattoos. They continue to be an inspiration for us all.

By Jennifer Lockhart McHugh on Jul 19, 2010 - 8:06AM
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To each her own. Period. You cannot argue taste. I have no problems with tattoos and lots of people I know, fit or not, enjoy and look good with their tattoos. Fit people can look even better with them. If you are a person who does not appreciate tattoos, then don't get one! If you want them even on your ear lobes, that's your business. But don't complain if you hate them decades later! LOL

By Christine on Jul 19, 2010 - 8:10AM
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I see nothing wrong with them; as long as they are in good taste I say go for it. What I don't like to see (on men or women) is to have them plastered just about over every inch of visible skin. As with most everything we put on our bodies wheather it be clothing, make up, or tattoos--a little goes a long way--what we put on should enhance not detract from our appearance.

By Sherri Barker on Jul 19, 2010 - 8:18AM
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I am shocked that someone like Michelle even reads Oxygen. It seems she is very small minded, very judgemental, and worse than that, not supportive of her fellow females. I have multiple tattoos scattered around my body. I am 39 years old. I take my fitness and health seriously. My tattoos all mean something personal to me. They are who I am. Just as scars, body shapes, or eye color is to everyone else. People who would judge me on my tattoos, are not in my positive circle of life forces. And my positive life forces/friends includes all my fellow Oxygen readers! Keep on publishing REAL women!

By Austin on Jul 19, 2010 - 8:20AM
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Is there anything ugly about my back...I think not. At 52, I proudly show off my fitness level, artwork, ability to be comfortable in my own skin and self-confidence. It's my life, like Lina...can we please just enjoy it without the peanut gallery voicing their sanctimonious, judgemental opinions. Thank you Oxygen for helping me maintain a level of fitness, integrity, knowledge and inspiration for myself and my clients. As a personal trainer, it is your magazine and Tosca Reno's Eat Clean Diet that assists me in meeting all of our goals! Austin

By michelle on Jul 19, 2010 - 8:23AM
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unfortunantly this is the way or society still is, i am a regular rade of oxygen and i have almost 2 full sleeves. doesn' stop me from anything that i do. i get judged from the outside but i am the most determined person anyone would meet. I have worked extremely hard to get myselfwhere i am, over the past 4 yrs have lost 40 lbs. its is for someone that never worked out a day in he life. i still have my battles with things and tattoos give me strength,( i i can sit thru that pain i certianly can push thru a tough workout o life in general.) i have always gotten this kind of treatment in all parts of life (school work and home) and its sad that this is still where society is at. keep on posting these fantastic girls and there tats!

By Deanna on Jul 19, 2010 - 8:28AM
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I just want to say that it astounds me that today with all the political correctness, how someone is not entitled to their opinion without others making rude remarks like Michelle, via email who says..."dumb ass comment", or Audrey, via email who says "some will always remain square" or Brenda, via email..."needs to learn to be a little less close minded". It seems to me after reading all these remarks, that you are entitled to your own opinion AS LONG it is the one everyone else has, otherwise you are considered a dumb ass, square, and close minded to name a few. Leave Michelle, the reader who felt the tatto was ugly, alone. She is not a dumb ass, square, or close minded, she just has a contrary opinion!

By Lena on Jul 19, 2010 - 8:28AM
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wow!... I used to feel that way about tattoos when I was a kid.. I now consider them art work...they tell a story and usually have some deep meaning...In fact I'm considering getting one when I'm done my weight loss journey...I find them very sexy now!. I think her comments were really insulting to the people who have them and to the magazine! I bet she finds the male fitness models with tattoos sexy.. and the difference is?????

By Jen on Jul 19, 2010 - 8:31AM
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I love reading a copy of Oxygen. I'm not a fan of tattoos and in my opinion I think the people who get them are searching for more attention. Tattoos draw attention and when I see a woman with one I just wonder what the heck where you thinking!

By Maria on Jul 19, 2010 - 8:35AM
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I personally do not have tattoos and would probably never get one in my life just because I do not like how large tattoos look on a female's body. However, I think that they do not look unhealthy in any way. At least I do not associate them with unhealthy lifestyle, and if somebody chooses to have a tattoo, I find it absolutely rediculous to judge them for it! Lina's tattoo is tiny and tasteful and could easily be covered up if needed, so I do not understand the mean comments. I wonder if Michele would say that piercing is bad too :)

By Stephanie on Jul 19, 2010 - 8:36AM
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While I would never say anyone with a tatoo is ugly, I will say that I am not fond of them on anybody. I think it detracts from the beauty of a human body. Our bodies are amazing and such a gift, and I don't understand why someone would want to draw all over it, permanantly. I guess that is just me and others have their own opinions.

By Jackie on Jul 19, 2010 - 8:41AM
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As far as I am concern the person that took the time to comment on tattoos has way to much time on there hands. Take that energy and go workout. I am an extremely busy person but I just HAD to take time and say that what it really comes down to is if it does not affect your life who cares what others do.

By Charity on Jul 19, 2010 - 8:42AM
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Who cares that one has a tattoo! Look at their bodies, obviously they are the epitome of good health! Tattoos are a personal thing, I personally have 2 and love them. It has no bearing on whether someone is healthy or not- if you believe that you could say people who dye their hair or take pills to lose weight or have fake boobs aren't healthy.......get over it and enjoy the magazine.

By Lissy on Jul 19, 2010 - 8:43AM
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I personally think tattos are tacky on anyone and go out of style pretty quickly. I think beautiful skin and muscles is enough on its own. The models don't wear jewelry to express themselves personally in the shoots either. I prefer beautiful clean skin and don't need to see their tats. But that's just me....

By Diana on Jul 19, 2010 - 8:44AM
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I love Oxygen magazine and am a loyal subscriber. For Michelle to say that "tattoos are ugly" is just ridiculous. Of course she is entitled to say and think how she feels, but "ugly"? Really? There are so many different types of self expression and things that people do to their body to make them feel or look beautful. If that's what they want to do, hey, more power to them. I certainly do not think it detracts from the hard work they put into eating clean, staying healthy and having a kick ass, rockin' body, as does Lina. The first thing to pop out at me was NOT her tattoo. I love her shamrock. I wish it was bigger. I have tattoos, and I'm so glad I do. My work was done by some extremely talented artists and I am honored to have their "art" on my back. Yes, even the unicorns on my shoulder that I got way back in 1987. Hey, everyone loves unicorns right? Keep up the good work Oxygen!!

By gertraud Breitkopf on Jul 19, 2010 - 8:45AM
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A very small one could be ok but this stuff one sees nowadays is ridiculous. I am against it.

By Linda on Jul 19, 2010 - 8:45AM
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While I do not have any tatoos myself, I would note that sometimes people get them to help themselves feel more attractive or confident by covering up scars from surgeries, accidents, birthmarks, etc. It is wise not to prejudge someone you do not know just for having a tatoo.

By SkyeBleu on Jul 19, 2010 - 8:53AM
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Tattoos are a choice. And it has been quite a long time since they have been taboo. When I saw the ugly tattoo comment in a previous issue of oxygen I thought "maybe this person should keep their comments to themselves". You see, just because you personally don't like something, doesn't mean everyone else has to conform. As long as the tattoos are tasteful, there isn't a problem. I have a very large tattoo that starts near the back of my neck and flows down towards my.... glutes. it is of flowers, water, a geisha... its beautiful. I do not expect everyone to like it, but I am very proud of it.

By Leila on Jul 19, 2010 - 8:57AM
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I love beautiful, well placed tatoos. That being said, I do feel they can detract from the lines of a models body, depending on where they are placed. While I feel that Lina's tatoo is a bit distracting, it definitely not ugly. And most definitely do not agree with the insinuation go against the practices of a clean and healthy lifestyle!!

By Maye on Jul 19, 2010 - 8:58AM
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I can't believe that Michelle is so shallow! Lina's body is INCREDIBLE! If she feels that little tattoo "detracts from the beauty and effort" that Lina has put into building her amazing physique, I truly feel sorry for her. It is a shame that SHE cannot see past the tattoo, and wants to call it - and tattoos in general on anyone - ugly. I really don't have an opinion either way regarding tattoos or body piercings, etc. I myself have a tattoo and feel such things should be left to personal preference. I would not care if one of your models had her eyebrows, nose, nipples and lip pierced, her ears gauged, AND a tattoo running down her neck and her back. While I may look at it and think "Wow, I would never do that. How could she have done all that? That's not attractive in my opinion." I would still be able to see the beautiful toned and sculpted body in spite of it, and I would respect that model for her dedication and discipline to acheive it. Nor, would I think it was an indication of low standards of Oxygen magazine to feature her.

By Madeline on Jul 19, 2010 - 9:00AM
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Personally, I don't care for tatoo's where you can see them. I don't feel it's attractive looking, particularly on ladies. It looks dirt that I want wash off. But I love art and admire it as so. If it's put in a place that is hidden, for special eyes only, it's sexy.

By Antonietta on Jul 19, 2010 - 9:01AM
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Hmm Michelle, judgemental much? I feel that tatoos are a personal choice that do not detract from someone's physique. If you are healthy and care about your body, what does it matter if you have a tatoo or not? It is a personal decision and form of expression. Oxygen, keep doing what you do - showing strong, healthy, beautiful women who care about how they look, feel and promoting good examples of that!

By Coleen on Jul 19, 2010 - 9:01AM
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I have been reading Oxygen for years and I was taken back that someone would make such a comment. I actually just got my 5th tattoo over the weekend to commemorate running my first marathon. I know the tattoos I have have specific meaning to me and whenever I look at them they remind me of the positive things they represent. In a world of fashion magazines plastering unrealistically skinny girls on their pages its refreshing to see women who are healthy, fit and not human clothing racks. Keep up showing the beautiful athletic women I see when I read Oxygen...it motivates me in a healthy lifestyle.

By Cynthia on Jul 19, 2010 - 9:02AM
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I don't agree with the comments regarding Oxygen's standards were lowered because a tattooed model was on the cover nor do I agree people who have them don't promote clean eating and healthy lifestyles. I do agree with the comment that tattoos are (somewhat) ugly. Everyone is entitled to their opinions afterall, do I think tattooed people are less intelligent? Absolutely not but I wonder if they think about the future and what those tattoo are going to look like (especially on women) as they age and their skin begins to sag. The body is a beautiful thing and for me I can't imagine marking it permanently with a tattoo to somehow show to the world my past or my beliefs, excetera, whatever the reason for them why is it some people feel they need to show the world. I've seen tattoos come and go over the years and have also seen the cost involved and pain in removing them. Tattoos are definately not for me but I have no problem with others enjoying them but quite frankly I don't understand the need for them and i honestly don't think they make the body look better in any way.

By Julie on Jul 19, 2010 - 9:07AM
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I also must post my two cents worth. I have been an avid weightlifter and clean eater for about 14 years. At 51, I am very strong, healthy, happy and a good productive citizen giving to my community on a daily basis. I also sport many tattoo's which I wouldnt change. If I were a tattooed man, would anyone even notice or care?,

By Carly on Jul 19, 2010 - 9:09AM
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I can't believe such a big deal is being made over such a small thing. The model looks AMAZING! Her tattoo is small and cute. Even if it wasn't, who cares?! I have a tattoo and it's part of who I am. There is nothing wrong with it. Get over it!

By Evette on Jul 19, 2010 - 9:17AM
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I think it is sad that people feel the need to resort to name calling and such when they do not agree. The whole tattoo's thing is a personal preference. If you have an opinion of tattoo's, give it but don't attack Michelle for hers. As for me, I am a competitor that doesn't like tattoos. I think the human body is beautiful without the pictures and writing added however, I would not have liked it if they airbrushed the tattoo out because then I would begin to wonder what other things are airbrushed in the magazine.

By Maria on Jul 19, 2010 - 9:23AM
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I have to say that everybody has a right to their opinion and Michelle is entitled to hers and I am entitled to mine. I find tattoos to be disgusting and make one look cheap and trashy. I don't even date men with tattoos. Not that it matters, but I just realized the men without tattoos happen to make twice the salary of the ones who have them....someone should look into that study... About Angie posting a comment stating she has 4 tattoos and is Christian, I guess she forgot her body is a TEMPLE for the Holy Spirit. Way to take care of your Temple Angie!!! :o/ Keep up the GREAT work Oxygen!!!

By Gwen on Jul 19, 2010 - 9:24AM
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Michelle should be cautious the next time she puts in her opinion. Beauty, by the way, comes from the inside not the outside. God gave us a beautiful body to work on and keep healthy and fit. However, to judge the beauty of this model based off on a tattoo is ignorant and mean. I have three tattoos and they make me feel on top of the world. One is the name of my sister who passed away. I love my tattoos and any other woman who has one that has great meaning to them should be proud to show them. We should not allow women to undermine our view of beauty based of a personal opinion. Lynda Jade, you have an incredible physique and should be proud of that. Beautiful!

By Alison on Jul 19, 2010 - 9:26AM
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I have a full arm sleeve of tattoos(well...almost full, I have 2 empty spots of flesh left) and 2 "socks" if you will(from my knees down are covered) . I have personally have many stuck up snobby ::curbing language:: witches :-) say nasty & mean things about my tattoos and how they look "trashy", and then they go try to flirt with my husband who is covered in them (what can I say boxers are sexy:-) women can't resist the gloves I guess). Funny thing is they almost always were stuffed full of silicone(literally cantaloupe sized) wearing outfits that barely cover their butts and boobs, they have no tattoos and can't figure out why he never was into them, the reason is so simple- Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, plain and simple. I'm not hating on anyone with implants, I myself am a proud member of the IBTC (Itty Bitty Titty Committee) I am a STRONG believer in it's your body, do what you want, it's none of my damn business. As for myself I have been vegan for 12 years , I workout regularly, and I truly look up to ALL the women featured in oxygen magazine for their discipline,hard work, and dedication. Sorry you're so boring and close minded Michelle, life is a lot better when you open your heart and mind up to new things and experiences.

By Dianna on Jul 19, 2010 - 9:27AM
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The comment Michelle made greatly insulted me as i am someone who proudly has been "inked". Two years ago I made the decision to have a beautiful tattoo done on my back. As this tattoo was symbolic of major life changing events it was like having another birthday. Written in Japenese and completely down my spine it means transformation. With this tattoo I started my new life, inside and out. I found a love for the gym that was surpressed by my ex husband. I have transformed my body and have hit many of the goals I set out to do. My tattoo is always there to remind me of the never ending journey I am on as we are changing everyday. I get more compliments on it as it is more like a piece of art and have been approached by artists to sit for them in order to sketch it. I don't see how anyone can still have the mindset that something so accepted in society can detract from the healthy person way of life. I wear a suit to work everyday, hit the gym at 4:30 every morning, eat clean religously and appreciate everyday I am given. If having a tattoo makes me less of a person to someoene than that is a person that needs to open their eyes and see the world for what it is, a wonderful place to express yourself!

By Lisa on Jul 19, 2010 - 9:28AM
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I'd like to think that my tattoos do not detract from my healthy life in any way. If Oxygen refused to feature models because of tattoos, I'd be very disappointed.

By Tara on Jul 19, 2010 - 9:36AM
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So having tattoos makes us ugly, thats the most close minded statement I have ever heard. They have NOTHINg to do with being healthy or living a healthy lifestyle. I have over 15 tattoos, most of whch have a meaning or document a life changing situation. I am actively persuing bodybuilding and I think there are enough people that judge us based on that alone, leave the tattoos out of it and don't judge anybody! Thank you Oxygen for showing a strong women WITH a tattoo!!! It just made me love your magazine even more!

By Gia on Jul 19, 2010 - 9:43AM
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I don't know about unhealthy but it is my personal opinion that tattoos are ugly and even trashy looking. The body is a thing of art, why put graffiti on it? That being said I didn't even notice the tattoo on this lady until mentioned. She only has one tattoo which is pretty tame these days it seems. It is interesting to note that it is on different sides of her body in the pictures above. Is it even real? Even though I am put off by tattoos I have a lot of friends with them and I just see right past them (when i can) and focus on the person not how they have marred their bodies. It is important to be accepting of others even if you don't entirely agree with what they are doing. The world would be a boring place if we all did the same things.

By Karen on Jul 19, 2010 - 9:47AM
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Just a "devil's advocate"/"food-for-thought" comment: If our bodies are like our works of art -- sculptures if you will -- then are tatoos not like grafitti?? I would not want any on MY body (and I am also a successful figure competitor) however I would also not write into the magazine and comment on it...

By Kandice on Jul 19, 2010 - 9:47AM
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I was angry to say the least, I compete in bikini and figure and am heavily tattoo (full sleeved full rib cage and others). It has never affected me on stage OR in my professional career (I am PhD student studying environmental microbiology) I can't believe that there are so many narrow minded people out there and for someone to complain about a tattoo that a model has who has kicked butt for her body. Seriously we all have what others would consider flaws but thats what makes us, us. I would LOVE to see Oxygen occassionaly have a model that is heavily tattooed and I'd volunteer ;) Keep up the great work Oxygen!!!! (karllk@comcast.net if any interest in seeing my pics)

By Hesper on Jul 19, 2010 - 9:48AM
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I believe tattoo's are a person's own choice. We are all created different for many reasons and in many ways. For one to express themself with a mohawk, multiple body piercings, outlandish attire, and even tattoo's is an art form. How one is perceived is tied to the viewers emotion's, prejudice, or lack of knowledge. I feel in a land of choice we can accept each individual for whom they choose to be, what they wear, or how they adorn themself whether we agree or not. Be thankful we are able to not only discuss a topic such as this but also view many living art forms. Imagine how dull and simple life would be.

By Maria on Jul 19, 2010 - 9:50AM
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Even though I don't prefer tattoos myself and like to see a clean body, I don't fault others for it. If I could switch bodies with her I would in a second even though she has a tattoo!

By Alexis on Jul 19, 2010 - 9:50AM
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First off, I absolutely love Oxygen, it is one of the only health & fitness magazines I read because it is so informative and includes many aspects of keeping a healthy and active lifestyle. With that being said, I am an avid runner, spinner and weight lifter with approximately 20+ tattoo's...I don't even keep count of them any more. I do not think it makes a difference whether or not you have ink to determine if you are living a healthy life. Michelle, wake-up sister it's 2010 and WOMEN are living their own lives according to how they see fit and if having tattoo's is one of those ways, then so be!

By Tamlynn on Jul 19, 2010 - 9:53AM
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I personally don't have any tattoos. God didn't even give me a Birthmark so I have chosen to keep with that theme. It is not my place to judge anyone else's choice! It takes the same amount of hard work and dedication to sculpt lean muscle whether or not there is ink on the skin! We are all sinners in need of a Savior so be cautious about throwing stones!

By Chantelle Enns on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:04AM
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When you published the picture of Lina's tattoo I did a little happy dance because I am competing for the first time this year and I have a large Egyptian tattoo on my back. While I do understand that multiple tattoos can possibly distract judges in a fitness contest I think the world is evolving and 1 out of 2 people have a tattoo these days. I think by posting this picture you connected with a whole new readership and it's obvious that people out there feel the same.

By tammy hickey on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:05AM
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I have this issue and i think her tattoo is very cute.I have 2 myself and is very proud to have them.I see nothing wrong with a beautiful woman in shape showing off a tattoo.In todays world they are everywhere.It doesnt mean your less of a person cause you have one. Kepp up the with the great magazines of oxygen! Tammy :)

By Denise Boyle on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:05AM
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This tattoo business is a perfect example of how using the correct words are huge in conveying your thought. If the reader claining to hate tattoos, the reason extends itself far more than just some ink. Tattoos are an art form and a human canvas is the best place to appreciate them. The few I have and like most others have a meaning behind them. The fact you are wearing your "heart on your sleeve" gives no individual the right to tarnish the pride you have for MAKING A COMMITMENT to permantly put something on your skin. To those that have recklessly made the decision...they will learn as well in time. To be covered head to toe may be a bit extreme, but I applaud those who do for their passion of the art. I have complimented on my tattoo and scolded for it. No matter what the comment is, I KNOW it is beautiful, because of the notion behind it. Our lessons as children are too much forgotten by adults #1 Don't judge a book by its cover and #2 If you don't have anything nice to say about someone, DON'T say anything at all. I feel for the reader that opened up this stinky can of worms, but we all need these things to happen to keep ourselves in check with what is really important. How about this lesson is that we as women...OXYGEN WOMEN, find the good in ourselves and our peers?

By Jamie on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:07AM
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Tattoos are not that bad. I don't have any, but they don't bother either. Some look neat & clean and can be sexy. Especially on those who take care of themselves. You have to look past the tattoos to see the real person. It's the character not the tattoo that matters.

By Christie on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:09AM
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I think the tattoo that Lina has is very sutble to some of my friends lol. Everyone will have their own opinions about tattoos and other issues. It's not what makes up a person, it adds mystery to the person's character. A tattoo here and there shouldn't be an issue. If they're covered from head to toe where it distracts seeing the definition and hard work of bodybuilding then I can understand. The article was about working on the delts. Lina has wonderful muscle definition and I was able to see how the correct movements showed the muscles. Keep bringing the photos and articles Oxygen. I'm not complaining. Most of the fitness models are inspirations to me. Tattooed or not!

By Gloria-Colo on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:14AM
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How does a tattoo define who you are or how you live? I also have two tattoos both also for personal reasons that honor the ones I love. Dont like it? Dont look. It isnt anyone's business and who is it to judge? Personally, Im not a fan of full body tats so I wont get one but that doesnt mean the person that has them is ugly, bad or otherwise. Tatts dont define who the person is and just like beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so are tatts. They arent for eveyone and that's ok too. It's called Individuality.

By Lori on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:16AM
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Why don't we lift each other up instead of tear each other down? A tattoo is something that doesn't hurt anyone or anything. Michelle, I bet you've made choices that wouldn't work for me. I don't think I would call you out on it in a magazine for all to see. Like momma said, "keep it to yourself."

By Fiona on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:18AM
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Gosh what a statement coming from Michelle. I have no idea how one can associate a tattoo with clean eating and healthy lifestyle. I have a tattoo and am very proud of it as it is a reminder of my freedom I obtained after a very bad and hurtful break up. I still go to gym, still do the clean eating and I do take care of my body. Michelle I do belive that you need to first establish why people have tattoo's and on obtaining that information then decide if it is ugly or the lowering of one's standards. a tattoo is art and should be regard at that. Michelle please move with the times and stop being critical of people becasue we do not confrom to your standards.

By La'Shauna on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:18AM
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I have two tattoos and wanted to get more, but when I read Leviticus 19:28 I decided not to get them. I still like the ones I have.

By Lesli Barron on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:22AM
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The only people who should have tattoos are people with great bodies. That said, IF YOU HAVE A LEAN, MUSCULAR BODY YOUR BODY IS THE BODY ART and you have no need for a tattoo. You'll get more attention with your ripped physique than you ever will with a tattoo.

By Shannon on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:23AM
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I don't have any tattoos, but I do admire people who have them, they tell a story or show something about that person, tattoos are an art form and if someone wants to express something meaningful to them through art that is their business. I have been getting the Oxygen magazine for a few years now and the women look amazing and with or without a tat. There are those people who will always find one thing they ?think is wrong? and dig at it. I believe the magazine does a great job and if a lady has a tattoo that should not take away from what she is doing for the magazine; I would hate to see the magazine not have models that can represent well due to someone complaining about a tattoo.

By Lisa N. Effingham, Illinois on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:24AM
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First of all, let me say that I totally agree with tattooing. I have several and all have been influenced by one time in my life or another person in my life. However, to give Michelle all this attention is only feeding into her need for it by saying something she knew would bait readers into a frenzy. Michelle, though small-minded in her comment, does have a right to her own opinion, even though the majority of us do not share it. I for one pity this individual for her lack of intellect and insight into what is a valuable article in every way. Once again, kudos to Oxygen for allowing us all to get this monkey off our backs and to verbalize our agression to such a comment.

By Theresa on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:25AM
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I for one love tattoos, I have 2! People need to stop being so critical of others and focus on themselves. There's a reason why so many people have self-esteem issues in this day and age, because of people like Michelle. Keep you're negativity to yourself and stick to the old saying "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all."

By Pamela on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:26AM
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WOW! I believe everyone is entitled to their opinion and that we can agree to disagree, however, making a statement like that regarding tattoos I feel is way out of line. They do not detract from fitness and good health, and I'm in agreement with what's already been said by the previous comments. I have three tats, they have very special meaning in my life...the one on my shoulder is Japanese for strength as I celebrated 29 years clean and sober! It is a reminder to me how strong a woman I really am! The one on my right abdomen is three roses at different stages of opening. My daughter designed it for me. It represents myself and my two children, the loves of my life! I am now fit after not being active until I was almost fifty! Thanks to the beautiful (and a lot of tattooed women!) women and Oxygen! I'm 54 now and my Doctor says healthier than her 20 year old patients!! Thank you Oxygen for showing us what real women look like, because that what I believe the majority of women want to see...it is such an inspiration!! ROCK ON!!! I've included a pic of my roses tat, my daughter just did the same one on her forearm to honor me!!!

By Lori on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:27AM
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I am taking a gamble here by providing my own comment but I am one who does not personally like tattoos. I'm assuming we're all entitled to our opinions. I have been on the competition stage and plan on competing again this year. Unfortunately, when we are on stage, tattoos do detract from one's physique and this I would have to agree with. What I don't agree with, however, is Michelle's statement that tattoos are ugly. While they do take your eyes away from one's physique, I do believe that it is a personal choice. Also, I believe that while showing the odd tattoo may be fine, Oxygen would have to take a look at who they are marketing to. I, for one, would not hire someone to represent my business who had visible tattoos and/or piercings. Call it what you want but in the end we are still a judgemental society.

By Kelley on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:30AM
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There are no "cookie-cutter" women. We are unique in every way and what I like about Oxygen is that the models they use vary in many different physical attributes. To me, a tattoo is a personal choice and is just as unique as the individual sporting it. I love my tattoos! If someone else thinks they're ugly, that's their problem. To make disrespectful comments about a person's tattoo or trying to decide the caliber of the person based on a tattoo is so tacky.

By Daisy Keresey on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:33AM
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I believe every human being has only one thing in this world that they can truly call theirs and thats their body. What we do it whether it be lift weights, get tattoos, put holes all over it, or let it get fat (which is just gross) its our choice and our freedom to do as we please. I don't care if you don't like my body, and I don't care about your opinion on my body, its mine and I'm going to do to it whatever I please and so should everyone else. :)

By Della on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:33AM
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Sounds like No Tattoo-Michelle is out numbered! I think she needs to lighten up and quit being so judgmental. Gotta run- I have an appointment for my next tattoo!

By Sue on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:40AM
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BREAST IMPLANTS THE BIGGER ISSUE!!!!!!! I was completely shocked when I read that people had a problem with a fitness model having a tattoo. Its an artistic expression of who she is and isn't causing her any harm. If we want to point fingers then perhaps there should be comments on the breast implants that clearly a good portion of these fitness models have. It sends the message that although you can get a body like most of these women, you'll never quite be there unless you get silicone balls placed in your body. Really that's more healthy and a better image to promote then a tiny tattoo? I'm thinking there's a glitch in this logic.

By Linda on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:42AM
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With a body like that who is worried about a tattoos. :)

By Lisa on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:44AM
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Tattoos are very subjective you either like them or you don't. I honestly don't think such a tiny tattoo takes away from the beauty of this models body at all. Tattoos are symbolic art much like jewelery. Which I personally think is beautiful. At age 43 I just got my first tattoo which I love.

By Mollie on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:45AM
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Most people with tattoos understand that the art is a form of expression. I have set a personal fitness goal for myself and I plan to honor it with another peice of body art in the form of a tattoo. I have to earn my next tattoo by reaching my fitness goal. Seeing the model in Oxygen just makes me work that much harder. Oxygen, please, continue to keep it real.

By Elizabeth on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:45AM
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I love the fact that Oxygem published a model showering her tattoo. I recently got my first and only tattoo. The seahorse on my hip means so much to me. Not only does it have personal meaning but it is also incredible motivation to stay fit & healty. No one wants to see the cute little seahorse turn into a giant seamonster.

By ? Cheri, via email on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:49AM
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I must say Michelle does not sound so intelligent on her comments regarding tattoos. Just because a person has a tattoo does not mean they do not promote clean eating and healthy lifestyles. I have 4 tattoos and am an avid figure competitor. I am probably more healthy than 90% of the people who don?t have tattoos. People need to think before they open their unintelligent mouths!!!

By ? Cheri, via email
 on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:49AM
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I must say Michelle does not sound so intelligent on her comments regarding tattoos. Just because a person has a tattoo does not mean they do not promote clean eating and healthy lifestyles. I have 4 tattoos and am an avid figure competitor. I am probably more healthy than 90% of the people who don?t have tattoos. People need to think before they open their unintelligent mouths!!!

By Sue on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:52AM
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I think tattoos look trashy.

By Elaine on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:54AM
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I love Oxegyn, and i love tattoos! so please dont pick only ladies for your articles that dont reflect the vast array of women out there who choose to better their bodies both physically and visually. As a woman who decided not to go into her forties without a fight (I turn 43 on July 26th) i want to see more like me, i am tattooed AND in shape, clean living, etc...why is this person suggesting there is only one path to the healthy fit lifestyle you promote. What i dont want to see is only one particular shape form or color on your covers...it has taken alot of time and effort and i want to see that i could possibly be there(even if i cant). If all i see are women who dont reflect me why would i read your magazine. Keep up the great job, dont change for anyone!

By Nikki on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:55AM
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I wouldn't get any, but I don't have a problem with other women's tatts. If it looks good, it looks good. Some are tasteful, some are not.

By Brandi on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:58AM
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I have three tattoos: My husbands name tattooed on my ring finger, lower back and bikini area. I intend on getting my two son's names tattooed on my 3rd and pinky fingers. :o) I feel that tattoos are a form of expression, just as your body is a form of expression. People get tattoos for a multitude of reasons: to remember a loved one, to remember an occasion, or just because they enjoy them. I also feel that placement of a tattoos means all as well. It upsets me that someone who doesn't know a person or the story behind the tattoo feels they have the right to judge. I was thrilled to see a tattoo in your issue and to know that Oxygen isn't afraid of expression!!!!! Thank you Oxygen :o)

By Joy on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:02AM
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If it isn't your body; don?t worry about. Tattoos? have meaning to the person that wears them. Keep your standards "higher"?! Are you kidding?! Look at Lina Jade she has an incredible amazing body. I don?t think a "tattoo" justifies implying she isn?t good enough. Shame for judging someone?s choice of personnel expression.

By Cheri on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:03AM
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Tattoos are a personal choice. They are becoming more and more popular and people are getting them done at earlier ages. I have even seen them on my 8th grade students! As someone who got a tattoo for her 18th birthday and ended up hating it a year later, I simply think people should wait until they are a bit older to make a wise choice in their ink selection. If you ban the tattoos, ban the piercings too. Then you would have to eventually move on to make up, because if you truly want to see the natural beauty of your models, why use make up? Then some people would be offended by certain clothing brands or materials. Where would it stop? Let's get real, tattoos are common place and there is no reason why we shouldn't expect to see them in the magazine. I didn't notice the tattoo, I simply saw great arms & awesome abs on a beautiful woman.

By Margaret on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:04AM
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Reader Michelle is perpetuating the myth that there is only one beauty ideal. True beauty comes from within. Her judgmental comments about the "ugliness" of tattoos is more of a commentary on the kind of person she is than anything else. Oxygen celebrates healthy, strong women and, unlike many other magazines, doesn't rely on the stereotypical waif prototype to sell magazines. We are all free to have our opinions. The danger of expressing them is showing the world what kind of people we really are. It's ok not to like tattoos for yourself. But, why judge others because they have them? Just my 2 cents worth.

By brenda on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:06AM
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Tattoos are beautiful. I don't think there is anything wrong with them and it doesn't take your eyes away from anything.. I read that issue and never even notices it. I have a tattoo on my calf that covers the whole thing and its has a meaning to it.. We don't get them just because.... I think this reader needs to grow up little bit..

By Candice on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:07AM
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Tattoos are a personal preference and very common. A tasteful tattoo can be very attractive and some hold a very special meaning to the wearer. I say live and let live. People need to be less critical of others and worry about themselves.

By Marcie, VA on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:10AM
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Tatoo's when they are tastefully done, enhance a beautiful body not detract from it. What I can't understand is why a magazine that focuses on hard workouts and healthy eating as the way to get a great body would run ads for products that promise to give you the body of your dreams if you pop this pill, mix this powder, down this supplement or use this cream. I think tatoos are the least of your worries. My question: Does Jamie E get her body from a bottle or eating right and working out? What about Alica Marie and the other. Hasn't Hydroxcut been on the 'watch list' for bad product? I'm 5'2" - 45 lean and petite with a well toned body, with no surgery or pill gimicks. I mix a post workout smoothie with skim milk, vanilla whey protein powder and 1 teaspoon each of pomegranate, blueberry and acia powder. I watch what I eat and cook healthy. I take vitamins. I workout 3-4 days a week for an hour. There are no limits to what I can do. Oh and by the way - I was diagnosed with MS in 1994 and the dr. said I'd be in a wheelchair, he was wrong thankfully. I take a daily shot of a drug that keeps the MS at bay.

By Nancy DiBartolo on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:10AM
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Oxygen is a publication that promotes not only a strong body, but a strong mind, through education. Tattoos are a form of self-expression, and each one has a story. Listen and learn, rather than be afraid and judge. However, only those with an open mind - and an open heart - understand this. Live and let live. Nancy Montreal, Quebec, Canada

By Carol Adams on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:10AM
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The people out there that have a problem with a tattoo need to get over themselves. I personally do not have one, but only wished that I had her body and her dedication to get to the point where she is today and showing it off. Good for her! A tattoo doesn't do the talking her body does, and if you are so superficial that you can't see past a tattoo and look at the hard work then I feel sorry for you.

By Karyn on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:14AM
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I agree, tatoos distract from a person's natural beauty. These models have awesome bodies, why tarnish them with a tatoo?

By Jenny on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:17AM
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To me tattoos are ugly. Enjoy what god gave you. Don't destroy your body.

By Theresa on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:18AM
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This is ridiculous! I think tatoos look awesome. I don't have one (yet) but at 45 I want to get one! Let people express themselves however they want. Who made anyone the "self expression" police? Holy cow....come on people... chillax already!

By Stacey on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:19AM
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Provided a tatto is done by a professional in a professional setting, there is absolutely nothing unhealthy about having one. Contrary to the writers narrowminded opinion, a tattoo is an expression not a lifestyle. It is part of American culture and is on the rise.

By Barb on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:19AM
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Tattoos are very personal. Although they may not be for everybody, I don't think they're ugly at all. I personally have one. If you don't like tattoos- hey that's your choice, but realize it has nothing to do with having higher standards. Get a life lady. If the bother you- guess what you don't have to look at them. Live and let live.

By Michelle on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:19AM
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I'm sorry to offend but I agree that tattoos are ugly. It seems that everyone is making a desperate attempt to differentiate themselves but in the end they all look the same. I can't tell you how many birds, butterflies, barbed wire strands and chinese symbols I have seen. The worst part is that they draw the eye to sometimes undesireable views...if all people with tattoos looked like the models in your mag it wouldn't be so bad but that is because of their hard work and rockin' bods - not because of their tattoo.

By Sharon on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:21AM
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Who cares if she has a tattoo or not!!! That's one of the dumbest things I have ever head someone complain about. So, what they should have Photoshopped it out? Maybe then we just shouldn't be real people either! I mean it's a darn tattoo - seriously what's the big deal? Does a tattoo define a person or what make them "bad" give me a break!

By Julie on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:24AM
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I have never posted on a forum, but I have to say this struck a nerve. What time period do we live in? A tattoo does not detract from the beauty of a woman. They can be done very tactfully and the model mentioned is beautiful!!! Women need to stop being so critical of one another and keep their opinions to themselves. It's nice to know that this reader would think a beautiful woman is hideous if she had a scare from a surgery or any type of imperfection. Come on ladies, what happened to expressing ourselves ! Who wants to be the same as everyone else?

By sandra on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:24AM
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I think tatoos are an artistic expression. They are a wonderful way to express your thoughts and feelings, lets the outside world have a little glimpse of who you are inside.

By Pat on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:26AM
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I have read the tatoo-related comments with interest. I agree with the great majority of respondents that Oxygen has not lowered its standards by featuring a model with a tatoo. That said, tatoos are not emblematic of a healthy lifestyle or good taste. They are a simply a form of expression, as are clothes, behavior, music choices, hairstyles and haircolor and sometimes smoking. What marks tatoos as different is their permanence. And despite their increasing popularity, I certainly perceive tatooing as a lower-class, lower-income, low-expectation phenomenon. Tatoo parlors are located in the seedier parts of town. The more tatoos on a person, the more I tend to shudder. "What would his or her mother say?" Though a given tatoo may be interesting or cute and have a special story, my immediate reaction to a visible tatoo is generally one of sadness. "How could that intelligent-looking person have been so silly?" I rather feel that tatoos reflect poor judgment, as they are so permanent and they do not become more attractive with age. They actually become ugly over time. Tatoos in the 20th century were generally limited to Russian prisoners, sailors, gang members and social deviants. Despite wider acceptance in today's society, particularly amoung the youth, say teens and twenties, tatoos remain an anti-establishment or Peter Pan ("I don't want to grow up.") expression. Most youngsters eventually leave their youth behind and enter the adult world. You can quit smoking, change your hairstyle, put on adult clothing, but the tatoo stays and fades into a blotch. Pity those whose tatoos creep up the throat or neck or down the arm and are not so easy to cover up. Oxygen will likely periodically publish a photo of a model with a discreet tatoo. I anticipate that these will be kept to a minimum in keeping with the desire to promote good lifestyle decisions. Thank you.

By Denise on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:27AM
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That is YOUR opinion! The beautiful thing about this world is we all have different tastes, we like different things for ourselves, and everyone has a difference of what is beautiful! Wonder if they had a model with a disfigured face, are you going to say that is ugly to? keep your opinion to yourself! there are those of us that find the beauty in everything and everyone and everything has it purpose and beauty! you are way off base to put your narrow view on a magizine that has millions of diverse readers! grow up!

By Marie on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:29AM
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Talk about judging a book by it's cover! The only thing we can accurately gather from Lina's tattoo is that she is a unique individual, something we should all strive to be. I'd like Michelle to define exactly what the 'standard' is. Quite frankly, how does Lina's tattoo make her any less of a person or a great human being? Just for example, I am a fitness freak, and I strive to eat clean. I lift weights and run half marathons for charity (cancer, etc.). I have a Masters degree in science, I am a Captain in the Army National Guard, I work on clinical trials full-time for a pharmaceutical company and I've completed Army Airborne school to earn my 'jump wings'. And yes (*GASP*), I have a small butterfly tattooed on my hip. So does that tattoo make me any less of a person? I'm not trying to toot my own horn, but beauty isn't just skin deep and you really shouldn't judge someone or consider them any less of a person just by a little ink on their skin. Lina's tattoo symbolizes one thing: she refuses to conform, as many, if not all of Oxygen's readers follow suit. Below that hard-bodied, tattooed exterior is probably an incredible person who takes life, health, fitness, and her own happiness very seriously. In fact, she's so committed to being unique that she symbolized it with a tattoo. This is 2010 and women are amazing people. We endure so much in life and continue to push forward, constantly raising the bar and exceeding expectations. After decades of being amazing but repressed, we're finally being acknowledged for the great human beings we are. I know many amazing women who have tattoos. Tattoos are a choice; while you may not choose to sport one on your own body, do not let your own choice cloud your judgment of somebody else who also made a choice.

By Karine on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:31AM
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Hi girls!First of, love the magazine and keep them coming!Every month is a pure joy!!! I have 6 tatts, some I did younger some older...I don't hink they are ugly, especially if they have a meaning fo the person wearing them. After years of thinking that my legs were too big, while they are in fact, muscular, I decided to get a tattoo on my left calf..THe result is stunning!High heels and a defined calf= heads turning! It gives me the rock and roll edge that I always had. I still train real hard and still love that tattoo.Women, just be proud!!

By Denise on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:36AM
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Opinions are like a$$holes, everybody's got one. Personally I have two, working on a third. In this case and in my opinion, if the tattoo really retracted from the beauty and effort of this model, I imagine Oxygen would have either airbrushed the tattoo out, use tattoo cover up on the model, or, dare I say, not use the model for said reason at all. Clearly, this isn't the case, so obviously, and noting her final statement on that comment "... are just plain ugly", it is just that - AN OPINION. Good for Michelle for not obtaining a tattoo, but to some people, they are either considered art, or memorials - although I disagree about why, or what some get, it is not for me to say. That clover makes me think she [the model] is proud of an Irish heritage, or it is some form of symbol for luck... perhaps it could be in memorium of an Irish relative, whatever the case, Oxygen shouldn't worry over comments from anal readers. May I also mention, people like Michelle should turn down their noses a little. There is nothing wrong with tattoos and are becoming more and more the "norm" - she made it seem like Oxygen and/or this model committed a crime.

By Samantha on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:37AM
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REALLY! I wish all I had to worry about was other people's tattoos. This woman is in fabulous shape and the only type of person that would focus on the small tattoo is someone that is insecure and extremely critical of other women that they are jealous of. Get over it, get it the gym and stop judging people.

By Jen on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:37AM
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I would have to agree. I hate tattoos. They take away from the beautiful skin that a person is born with. Also they start to stretch when your body is changing from different weight gains during training. Then they don't look right at all. Also, FYI, from the picture above, the tattoo on the model is shown on both sides of her. Someone flipped the picture incorrectly. Tattoos also give photo editing away. ;P

By Lisa Walker on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:38AM
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Tattoos are a persons choice and has absolutely nothing to do with their physique......I personally do not like large tattoos but small discreet tattoos can look good. I have two small ones and cannot wait until I get in the shape to show them off a little....

By Mary Fairclough on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:43AM
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For me, getting tattoo was to signify an accomplishment in my life. I find it very tasteful and it's in a location that is not seen only by a few people.

By Shannon on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:43AM
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Now a days tattoo's are very common. They use to be looked at in a negative way. There are tv show's like LA ink, and it is stylish in some way to show a tattoo or a full sleeve. I am not into tattoo's, but feel in no way does having a tattoo mean Michelle should not be featured in a magazine. If you start descriminating in that manner you might really miss some outstanding talent. Also what you mark your body with on the outside does not reflect what's on the inside. Clean eating promotes good nutrition, and exercise increases cardiovascular health. Michelle has worked hard and deserved to be praised for her a accomplishments. Not for a tattoo that maybe has a special meaning! If you are picking a part each althlete are you really getting what you need out of the articles? I think Michelle was harsh with her comments and maybe should have kept them to herself. Telling people that something is ugly about them does not promote a postive feeling for most people.

By shelley on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:44AM
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I saw the tatoo on the model, and didn't really find anything offensive about it. I have a small tatoo as well on my ankle. Does it detract from the overall look/presentation of the magazine - not in my opinion. If the model had a significantly larger tatoo, or several of them - it would bother me more, and yes, it would detract from the magazine's goal of showcasing fitness. It is up to the discretion of the magazine whether to cover the tatoo or not. I still look forward to my magazine every month, and I will continue to read it regardless if the model has a small tatoo or not. Keep up the excellent work!

By ? Cheri, via email on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:44AM
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I must say Michelle does not sound so intelligent on her comments regarding tattoos. Just because a person has a tattoo does not mean they do not promote clean eating and healthy lifestyles. I have 4 tattoos and am an avid figure competitor. I am probably more healthy than 90% of the people who don?t have tattoos. People need to think before they open their unintelligent mouths!!!

By mary tiger on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:45AM
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Well in this beautiful country of ours people have the right to express themselves anyway they choose. So whether someone feels they are ugly that's they're opinion but they should not bash others for having them.

By Sandra on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:50AM
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I dont see how a tiny tatto makes the model any less presentable. No doubt this lady is only jealous.

By Cindy, via email on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:55AM
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I must say Michelle does not sound so intelligent on her comments regarding tattoos. Just because a person has a tattoo does not mean they do not promote clean eating and healthy lifestyles. I have 4 tattoos and am an avid figure competitor. I am probably more healthy than 90% of the people who don?t have tattoos. People need to think before they open their unintelligent mouths!!!

By Sherri C on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:56AM
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Tattoos are are a beautiful form of self expression! I personally think that Oxygen has very high standards, and have never felt as though they have drifted from them. As to the the comment about tattoos being "ugly" perhaps she should expand her level of acceptance!

By Melissa on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:59AM
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I agree with Cindy, that having a tattoo has nothing to do with clean eating and a healthy lifestyle; but I do think tattoos are ugly. You can never really tell what it is supposed to be -- they just look like scribbly ugly ink and they ruin the look of a beautiful body, in my opinion. I know they are wildly popular now, but I still think "single-wide trailer" when I see one!

By tina on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:59AM
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your opinion is your own and exactly that, tattoos may not be for everyone but there is no reason to say they are ugly or that oxygen should keep there standards higher. who are you to choose where and what standards should be. The models choice to choose body art is her own and the fact that she worked her rear end off to look this fantastic is all anyone should notice, what do you look like did or do you work this hard what are your flaws and who is anyone to pick on them. parden my harshness but opinions are like assholes everyone has one but not everyone needs to see or hear them. And for all you ladies out there complaining about the models wearing bikinis and how trashy it is just stop are you that jealous and petty, really look how amazing these models look and just try to realize how hard they have to work to get like that they deserve to show it off i am getting ready for a competition and its is so hard to get your body like this. So they deserve to wear these outfits hell if you looked like that you would be so proud an wear them too.

By Deborah on Jul 19, 2010 - 12:05PM
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Scarey that people still are that judgemental.. Have you been to a body building show lately?

By josephine on Jul 19, 2010 - 12:05PM
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Tattoos are not ugly. They can be nice as long as they are tasteful. Many tattoos have meaning such as a symbol of someone's tribute to a deceased love one, or representation of how someone feels. I have a tattoo of an indian warrior woman on my left upper arm that represents my heritage. I chose this as a tribute to my grandparents who were Navajo and Apache decent. I like my tattoo, and didn't get it until the age of 40. I understand that not all people agree with disfiguring your skin, but tattoos don't make the person, they are very artistic pictures made by good artists. Plus, I get many compliments on my tattoo.

By Tori Burke on Jul 19, 2010 - 12:06PM
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Too many and too big ARE ugly! It DOES distract from all that hard earned muscle!

By Donna Mama on Jul 19, 2010 - 12:07PM
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Tastefully done tattoos are beautiful and are a personal expression of ones self...it's a personal choice and if you don't like them tough, i'm sure there's something you do that others don't like as well... people in glass houses shouldn't throw stones. Just remember what is cool at 17 may not be so cool at 50...think your tattoo ideas thru and make sure it's something you want to live with and somewhere were it won't be a problem later on in life...

By Crystal on Jul 19, 2010 - 12:10PM
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Tattoos are a big sign that says, "Hey look at me and my body, aren't I cool." but, if a woman has true confidence in her self she doesn't need to mar up her body with tattoos! Besides, as she ages those tatts tend to sag, and if she's dumb enough to put her boyfriend or husband's name on her and the relationship ends, then she has to pay to get it removed. (And it's never completely removed, there are tell-tale traces left.) There's no more individualism in this world anymore! It's either conform or your out! It's rare to find anyone who stands on their own two feet and doesn't go along with the crowd! It's funny... people, in striving to be so called "Individuals", do what everyone else does!

By Chris B. on Jul 19, 2010 - 12:12PM
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My wife is a diehard Oxygen reader and I thought I would give my 2 cents on this issue from a man's point of view. Skip the tats! A women's body is sacred and should be kept that way. The latest tatoo craze is just that, a craze. 5-10 years from now you're going to regret that little so called "artwork". It is also a little funny that most tatoos seem to be place around the groin or above the buttocks. Sexual meaning maybe? I have two comments that I have read in the last few years that sums up tatoos on women. "A women with a tatoo is a player." And "Not all women with tatoos are skanks, but all skanky women have tatoos." Take it for what it is worth, but why would a women put herself in that stereotype in the first place. This is my opinion and nothing other.

By Kimberly on Jul 19, 2010 - 12:17PM
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Are you people serious? Having tattoos has nothing to do with healthy eating. Just because someone has a tattoo doesn't mean they are trashy. Maybe some of you who think that way should look in the mirror, I'm sure you aren't as beautiful as you may think you are. If you think tattoos are offensive, did you ever think that your rude comments about them are offensive to us who have them? It's 2010 people, grow up!!!!!!

By Andrea Parke on Jul 19, 2010 - 12:20PM
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I don't think tattoos are ugly at all, they are a symbol of ones character and make a person unique in their own way!!! On a personal note I think that people who judge other people without knowing that individual are "JUST PLAIN UGLY!!!" Andrea

By Martha on Jul 19, 2010 - 12:23PM
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One of the reasons that I love this magazine is because Oxygen showcase women who are real and whom we can identify with. As a woman, I feel that we should empower each other, rather than judge each other. We are all beautiful in our own right...tats or not. I may not have one a tattoo, but I certainly can respect and appreciate those that do. I, for one, was not in the least distracted by it, because I was more focused on the true reason for the magazine...not nit-picking the models. Stay real Oxygen!!

By Jackie on Jul 19, 2010 - 12:24PM
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Tattoo's are people's expression of themselves.....why would we deny that right or condemn it? If you don't like tattoo's, don't get them! Telling people that they are lowlifes or not up to standards are ridiculous....we don't tell you (the person who doesn't like tats) how to cut your hair, apply your makeup, dress yourself, how to decorate your house, what car to drive, etc (you get the point).

By Courtney on Jul 19, 2010 - 12:28PM
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I am a very healthy woman, follow the clean eating lifestyle and I work out six days a week. I'm also very intelligent and successful in my life, and I also have several very large tattoos. They are not ugly, I paid good money for them and I have people stop me all the time to tell me how beautiful they are. People who look at tattoos and judge the ones who are wearing them are ignorant, plain and simple. In a way that works for me though, because if someone has a negative reaction to my ink it lets me know what kind of person they are right away, and I don't want such judgmental and closed-minded people in my life. I have my very own ignorance filters and they have worked beautifully :)

By Ashley on Jul 19, 2010 - 12:33PM
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It seems like Michelle wants only the best for the readers of Oxygen, but as a girl with many tattoos, I do not understand what tattoos have to do with clean eating, healthy lifestyles and what's best for your body. Tattoos are a person's way of expressing themselves and if someone wants to express themselves with a tattoo, by weighlifting or by both! I say go for it. Don't listen to people like Michelle who thinks they're ugly... Everyone is entitled to their own opinion.

By Cassie on Jul 19, 2010 - 12:36PM
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ok seriously it's a tattoo. This day in age it's rare to see a person without one. Tattoo's dosen't mean anything different about a person and how they keep a clean and heathly lifestyle. I have 3 tatto's and nobody has every judge me as anything different. If you dont like them then keep it to yourself, as my mother once told me. Anyways the models in this magazine are amazing women each and everyone. They work extremely hard to keep there bodies the way they do and are they to show us a thing or too.

By Nicole on Jul 19, 2010 - 12:38PM
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I have read all the comments in regards to the tattoo and I have to agree with the majority of the readers!! Tattoos are a personal choice. I have one tattoo and am planning to get another one. I think that a tattoo is a personal statement and generally has meaning to the person that is getting the tattoo. I think the model was absolutely beautiful and I give lot's of kudoos to Oxygen for using her and keeping the tattoo!!

By Fangilicious on Jul 19, 2010 - 12:40PM
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WOW! Is all i can say after reading some of the comments on this post. "only fat trailer trash get tattoos" I have four tattoos, I am neither trailer Trash nor am I over weight. I believe that a person should be able to decorate their bodies anyway they see fit. The women who stated their dislike for tattoos are entitled to their opinion, but geesh the hate from their comment makes a lot more easier for me to say how stupid and ignorant they sound and must be. I'm glad that this magazine features women with beautiful bodies and that also have tattoos. Keep up the good work.

By Annette on Jul 19, 2010 - 12:45PM
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Offensive? Trailer Trash? Who are these people? A tattoo is a personal choice, you may not like it( i find some tattoo's a little trashy, didn't stop me from getting one) You don't seem to mind looking at her body or reading how she has become so fit, taking her advice and most likely wishing you had her drive and determination. We live in a world where most of us color our hair, get hair removed, get wrinkles removed, fake boobs, fake nails, lipo etc...... a tattoo is the least of our worries. Everyone is entitled to their opinion, I agree. If you judge a book by it's cover you may miss something spectacular. Live life and don't worry so much about others.

By Brandy on Jul 19, 2010 - 12:45PM
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After all this controversy, I'll be interested to see if Oxygen features another beautiful body with a tattoo in their magazine. Will fitness model hopefuls be running off to get them removed now? In keeping an open minded opinion I think they should continue to feature models with and without tattoos. The magazine is for anyone wanting to live a healthy life, tattooed or not.

By Shawrett on Jul 19, 2010 - 12:48PM
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Tatoos are a work of art. To most people they have a very personal meaning. There is nothing here that indicates she is not a clean eating person who values her body. Get real people, there are much more serious things to voice your dislike then this tatoo.

By Sherri Wright on Jul 19, 2010 - 12:49PM
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If a person is fit and has a beautiful body, I think a nice tattoo can enhance the look, not hurt it. It is ridiculous that people have to say such nasty things about this subject. It is a choice, if you choose not to get a tattoo, fine! I am a well educated person who is into fitness and I have four tattoos. Does that make me less of a person?

By Debra on Jul 19, 2010 - 12:57PM
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I got my tatoo when I had a midlife crisis at 27. It was before tatoos became popular and before I met my husband. My tatoo has meaning to me and I placed it where it does not necessarily show. Out of respect for my husband I would not get another since he does not like them. My boys would like them and as I explained theycan get one that is meaningful, tasteful but also thoughtful. They must be at least 21 before they can get one and they must think it through. What it is and where it goes. They must respect all others thoughts and opinions when choosing their tatoos and it's placement and appreciate that it is a permanent mark on their body. I realize I can not control the actions of others but I can respect their decisions whether it is a good one or a lesson learned. That being said respect for the initial opinion should be given even if it is not representative of our own

By Sarah B. on Jul 19, 2010 - 12:59PM
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Wow, it just amazes me that people are offended by tattoos! I am heavily tattooed (over 80 hours of work) and while I do cover them in certain circumstances, I do deal with the harsh reality of the world, and what people generally think about people with tattoos. It's sad to me really. I don't mind asking me questions, but I do mind being looked at like a criminal or degenerate. I would say all people who know me, know that I would give them the shirt off my back if they needed it! I truly feel this world has lost the true meaning of beauty and individuality. Somewhere a long the line, society created this picture of what beauty and perfection was, and I'm not really sure why or how. The best part about life is that we are all different. I don't judge people who don't have tattoos and there are plenty horrific people without them! The truth is, is that there isn't a person on the planet that fits the exact mold of "perfect" and it's ruining young women everywhere. I wish women with MORE tattoos showed up in fitness magazines! They are beautiful, and comfortable in their own skin more than most women because they've decided to decorate themselves with permanent art! I'm just here to represent the strong, tattooed women community! I love lifting, and I'll always love being tattooed :)

By Jude on Jul 19, 2010 - 1:01PM
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Tattoos in the past helped identify and denote tribal membership, becoming of age and status. I think today, tattoos have evolved. Many are little pieces (or large) of true forms of art. They also denote to me status - they aren't inexpensive pieces of art - and age. They have become popular in the 20 - 40 something age group, and are a trendy way to sport a person's belief and views to the world. I do not judge people on appearance. I have a friend who is an artist and has full body art. She is the one of the most sensitive and honest people around. People assume she belongs to a biker gang and takes drugs - nothing can be further from the truth. I like to say she literally wears her art on her sleeve - and her back, and her legs, and her neck, etc. LOL Beauty is in the eye of the beholder. I, myself, do not have tattoos as a personal choice. I have always "bucked the trend" and refuse to be a part of "any tribe". I don't want to look or be like others in the crowd. I stand out by having pale skin, no tattoos and very short hair. I don't follow trends. I am. I like to look at the art and even talk to people about their body art. Everyone has a story and every one is unique and interesting. Unfortunate that many in society choose to judge another's choice to show their own freedoms and beliefs in body art.

By Cassie on Jul 19, 2010 - 1:07PM
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It is simply a matter of personal opinion. Some people like tattoos and some don't. I think some are distasteful and some are beautiful. Again, a matter of opinion. Some that I don't like, others will. This does not give me or anyone else a right to judge or stereotype saying only certain types of people have them. Men and women from all walks of life, including ministers of the Gospel, have tattoos. I am proud to display the cross on my shoulder blade as a statement of my faith. I also have artwork on my lower back. People make way to big an issue out of things like this! The model looks fantastic. If people have a problem with her tattoo, they should keep their personal opinion to themselves.

By Jessica on Jul 19, 2010 - 1:11PM
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It's celebrating the body God gave me. he gave me free will and the right to choose. These days most women, and men for that matter, get tattoos with meaning behind them. I have one on my back that says "The Lord is my Savior. Nothing I shall fear". I also have one dedicated to my grandmother. I think tattoos are great.

By Jessica on Jul 19, 2010 - 1:11PM
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Ya, I think tattoos are ugly.

By Cassie R on Jul 19, 2010 - 1:13PM
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most ppl today get tattoo's for a meanful reason not like before when ppl would get them just because it was cool. i have three and they all have a reason behind them.

By Lynda on Jul 19, 2010 - 1:16PM
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Personally, I think both men and women ruin their look by applying permanent tattoos which detract from all their natural, gorgeous features...eyes, smile, muscles and skin texture. People tend to feel that tattoos are a way of expressing how they feel. I work in rehab for geriatrics and let me tell you....there's nothin like lookin @ their old, tattered, sagging tattoos. Ridiculous!!!! They say the business to be in 10 years from now is tattoo removal. Everyone should engage in whatever pleases them however, we all know as we do engage in most choices, we tend to regret them years down the road. I dated one guy with tattoos and knew from the beginning that it would never be a long term relationship for me...my parents would have set up a psych appointment for being drawn to someone with the need to litter their body in such a manner. Mark yourselves as you want to but don't look for approval when you do it....trust me...your more fabulous without it!!

By Len on Jul 19, 2010 - 1:18PM
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I do think most agree that tattoos are relative. Some may love them while others don't like that at all. I do prefer the term body art ;). I don't have a tattoo but am not opposed to them. However, if we are talking in reference to the fitness modeling and our attempt is to portray the ideal physique, I think it is best for the model to not display tattoos. As a man viewing a women, my image of the model doesn't necessarily decrease, but it is a distraction. The topic could shift from a toned and sculpted body to a design that is on that body.

By Steve on Jul 19, 2010 - 1:18PM
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Tattoos on women are ugly! I hate to see a nice physique messed up by a "tramp stamp". I bet if you took a poll of successful women, 99% would be tattoo free.

By Liz A on Jul 19, 2010 - 1:20PM
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Tattoos CAN look trashy. But I'd rather see a trashy tattoo (I'm not saying the model's was!) than everything airbrushed out. I want to see real people. I want to know I can get in great shape too!

By Wendy on Jul 19, 2010 - 1:27PM
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Tattoos are indeed ugly. Icky on the old and young alike, and no, there is no way to have a "classy" one. They scream low class, no matter who they're on.

By model of fit on Jul 19, 2010 - 1:31PM
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Tattoos are a personal choice. To some they have very sepcial meaning and NO ONE should judge anyone's choices period! A tattoo does not dictact how someone looks; however how one carries themselves does. Be who you are. People who ARE judging others; shame on you. :(

By Annette on Jul 19, 2010 - 1:51PM
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I personally do not care for tattoos, but I refuse to talk negatively about those who like them. Who am I or who are you to judge a persons personal tastes. I am appalled at the opinionated people who feel they can talk negatively about tattoos. Stop judging others and focus on yourself. I know brilliant professional people who have tattoos. I also know ignorant opinionated people who do not have tattoos. Get a life people

By Momma on Jul 19, 2010 - 1:52PM
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I don't like seeing them as I peruse my magazine. I won't agree with the mean comments about trailer trash and such, but I will say that I'd rather NOT see those in my Oxygen magazine.

By Cassie on Jul 19, 2010 - 1:53PM
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Steve, you are very wrong. A poll would show very different results than what you assume. More and more people, including women, have them now. Rich and poor, educated and uneducated, religious and non-religious. These things have nothing to do with it. And Wendy, that is YOUR opinion. That is like me saying "seafood is nasty." Yeah, I don't like seafood but that is my opinion. I say, to ME it is gross or in my opinion. You say they are ugly as if that is truth and not opinion. That is ignorant.

By Lisa on Jul 19, 2010 - 1:57PM
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Wow....who ever wrote that needs to get out more, and get a check on life. My advise to oxygen is to not listen to those negative comments as those kind of comments are most likely from closed minded people who are not happy with themselves. Why would they even both to comment so negative on the model who obviously looks amazing as I train so hard and still do not look like that. In no way do I feel that a tattoo of any size devaluates the level of class of your magazine but instead its nice that you are presenting real women and not photoshop it out like every other magazine out there! KEEP UP THE GREAT MAGAZINE AND DONT CHANGE A THING!

By Brittany C on Jul 19, 2010 - 1:57PM
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I'm very into health and fitness and I'd like to believe I take my work outs and nutrition very seriously, however, i too fashion some ink. Yes, i believe people have a right to their opinion but to say that fitness model is any less of a model because of her one little tattoo is to blindy neglect all her hard work and dedication put into the fitness field. I hope to one day be on the pages of oxygen and i would hate to think that drive could be broken because a small percentage of individuals who had a distaste for anything that wasn't considered " the norm". We are all beautiful individuals and unique and different in our own rights

By Tasha on Jul 19, 2010 - 1:58PM
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First off to Wendy: It amazes me how narrow minded you are! To call a woman "low class" for having a tattoo?? Are you kidding me? Please define your meaning of "low class"! I believe YOUR conversation would fall under the "low class" category. It entertains me that women on here are concerned about tattoos on a body. God gave you a canvas, so decorate it how YOU like. Women pierce ears, color hair, get their nails done....WHO CARES! We have freedom of expression, so people should express themselves the way they want. For those to JUDGE others: I'm sorry, is your name GOD? No? Ok then....Keep your judgmental mouth shut. The article was about fitness. Does your body look like that? Doubt it. Stop being jealous and enjoy what they have to offer you...

By Melody on Jul 19, 2010 - 1:58PM
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I was highly offended by Joanna's comment that "Tattoos are the epitomy of "trailer trash". The majority of women who get them are overweight and blue collar." I am not trailer trash, overweight OR blue collar. But I do have thousands of dollars worth of serious tattoo art done by one of the worlds most sought after tattoo artists, Anil Gupta. I am a vegan, kickboxing and yoga instructor who also happens to be an advertising executive and marathon runner. Joanna and others like her need to open their eyes and stop being so incredibly small-minded.

By Flavia, via email on Jul 19, 2010 - 1:59PM
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I love Oxygen. I read the Oxy Mailbox section on tattoos in the June 2010 issue. I want to make a point that it seems people are stating that having tattoos means one does not take their own fitness seriously. I strongly believe that the point to the magazine is to promote healthy living, optimal fitness and to build a body that you want. Having tattoos does not mean you detract from those goals. Please do not omit models with tattoos for that purpose ? if you do so, you are close-minded and your magazine is merely just focused on what is ?fashion-forward? rather than on fitness. To support my point about close-mindedness, you never hear people with tattoos complain about fitness models without tattoos. Thank you.



By Janet on Jul 19, 2010 - 2:02PM
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I have a tattoo my first last year. And it makes me feel pretty. I don't think anybody has a right to judge anybody but themselves.

By Amanda, via email on Jul 19, 2010 - 2:03PM
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I also love Oxygen and have been a fan for a long time. While reading the section Tattoos are Ugly in the June 2010 issue, I have to admit that I was quite offended by a comment another reader had sent via email. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion and has the right to express it freely, but to say that Oxygen lowered its standards by featuring a model with a tattoo is ridiculous. Tattoos are a personal choice and have no reflection on eating habits, hard work, or choosing a healthy lifestyle. Having a tattoo should not mean that someones hard work is any less appreciated or that a magazine has lowered its standards by showing a model with a tattoo.

By Beth on Jul 19, 2010 - 2:07PM
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I agree with MOMMA above. I don't like tattoos, but that's my own personal opinion. I don't care if others have them, but I will discourage my kids from getting them - just like I try to set a good example by avoiding alcohol and drugs. Even better than me telling them, is watching their aunt go through the lengthy and painful process of having hers removed.

By vicky on Jul 19, 2010 - 2:08PM
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There was a time when people of the earth were branded and tattooed by their owners or marked for the slaughter house...Tattooes are hidious ! they look trashy, I guess if thats the look you are going for then go for it.

By Kgymnast1 on Jul 19, 2010 - 2:09PM
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I don't have any tatoos and don't plan on getting any, but I love tatoos! My boyfriends has a dozen tatoos and I love them all because each one has a special meaniong to him. I say rock your tatoos if you have 'em, flaunt it if you got it...if it means something to you don't be ashamed or afraid to show it!

By Laura on Jul 19, 2010 - 2:13PM
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Hmm... To each her own is my motto. I do not have any desire to get a tattoo, but I don't care if everyone around me has one. I enjoy looking at the art work, and think that it sometime tells you a little bit about the person. When I was younger I would get a Henna tattoo, and those are a lot of fun. I personally don't want anything permanent on my body. Like a guys name I dated years ago!!:)

By icewife16 on Jul 19, 2010 - 2:19PM
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I am just as shocked as all the other readers, Oxygen magazine advertises Clean eating, work outs, looking good and motivation. The readers do not need the negative vibes just about a tattoo. Everything in Oxygen magazine is for us positive girls out there (and those guys that secretly read their partners), trying to make their lives better through exercise and eating. Let's keep it that way! p.s. I love all the pictures that the girls have put up of their tattoos, some are really amazing and beautiful oh and yes I do have a tattoo too!!!!!

By Jori on Jul 19, 2010 - 2:24PM
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I love my tattoos. Actually just spent 23 hours getting my latest one. I am in no way white trash. I have my degree and am a dental hygienist. I know I have to keep it tasteful and my tats have to be covered by my scrubs at work. If you don't like them, then dont get any yourself. To others, their body is their canvas!

By b on Jul 19, 2010 - 2:38PM
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I love my tattoos. I also love working out. One of my motivativators is having a body fit enough that I can show off my tattoos. I don't demand any one geta tattoo and I don't put down people who choose not to have body art. So why do they feel they can belittle me and others who choose to have a tattoo or two? Unkind people need to go work out a little bit more. More blood flow through the heart might help them.

By Kim on Jul 19, 2010 - 2:45PM
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I do not have any tattoos, but my son does. I like them small but all over the body like a canvas is a little much for me. But to each their own. Some of them are very creative art work and it is just the sign of the times where tattoos and piercings are the craze right now. Maybe in another decade it will be something else......

By Cupcake on Jul 19, 2010 - 2:49PM
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I think Tattoos are a wonderful thing. Not only do they allow the wearer to express themselves through art but they also serve the dual purpose of filtering out the small-minded, judgmental mouth-breathers that would otherwise waste your time until you discovered how lacking in character and depth they are. To be honest I have yet to be on the receiving end of a judgmental, ignorant sort of comment and then ever found myself missing the company of whomever made them. Such openly offered demonstrations of narrow mindedness simply let you know who they are and to be honest it's even better than a system of lapel pins to warn you of the idiots. I am (and always have been) a heavily tattooed professional and whenever I ditch the suit and rock the tat's I can count on the moron filter going to work. Michelle: Green pins are for the weak minded and judgmental. You deserve two for your efforts.

By Ecogirl on Jul 19, 2010 - 2:49PM
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Wow, I am amazed at how judgemental people are being about an individual's personal choice. Comments like only overweight, blue collar, trailer trash people get tattoos. Really? What are you basing that on? Getting a tattoo or many is a personal choice and doesn't require people passing judgement like this. I think it is sad that in this day and age, people would make those sorts of comments. It is an art-form, an expression that one indivudal chooses. Maybe we all need focus on more important things.

By Sheila on Jul 19, 2010 - 3:02PM
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Wow! To dismiss the fact that Lina has an awesome body simply because she has a tattoo is really crazy. I would rather see her show off your artwork on her sculpted abs then the many muffin tops I see walking aroud the mall! Bottom line Michelle has a right not to like tattoos (supposed to be a free country right?) but don't judge Lina for having one or take away from the fact that she works hard to maintain what she's got. Tattoo or not she has a right to be featured! It is an exercise magazine, not a judge my tattoo magazine. I have five BTW....pic is

By Tammy on Jul 19, 2010 - 3:10PM
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I believe tattoos are a personal choice. If the reader hadn't gone too far I could have seen a point. Oxygen does promote a healthy lifestyle. Tattoos are NOT healthy. They are never 100% safe no matter who does them. There is always a chance for a reaction or infection. IF the reader hadn't gone on the say they were ugly etc there may have been a point. They are a great works of art...but they are not healthy.

By Agnes on Jul 19, 2010 - 3:12PM
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I don't have a tattoo and problaly never will. I think tattoo is an art form and it happens to be displayed on the body. Lina Jade has an awsome fit body and I respect her for taking care of it.

By Janet on Jul 19, 2010 - 3:15PM
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Wow!!! Melody your tattoos are incredible!! As are all of the women who have posted their pics!. I waited until my 40's to get my first and second tattoos. Yes they are a personal choice with meaning for me and I believe they are an expression of my journey so far in this life. No different than the sources of inspirational objects we surround ourselves with in our daily lives through all the various mediums. I just happen to have mine with me through every second and every experience. I am the same person I was without my tattoos.They have not changed who I am or what I stand for. I did not go from responsible, athletic, successful parent of three to overweight trailer trash all in the matter of one two hour session with a tattoo artist.My tattoos do however stand as a visual reminder for me of the trial and tribulations in my life that have developed and cultivated my own inner strength of mind body and spirit. As for the woman who works with the elderly in geriatric rehab and only sees tattered sagging tattoos. Maybe you need to try looking a little harder for the life lived rather than seeing your own biases. I know that I will never regret for one day my choices to get my tattoos. My course was deliberate and when I gaze upon my tattoos on my 50, 60. 70 , 80 or 90 year old skin they will instill and inspire in me all those best parts of myself. And lets hope I never end up as a patient at your facility cause I have a feeling we won't have an amiable working relationship. Finally, to Oxygen I look forward to many more fabulous editions of your magazine. I was blessed to have found Tosca's Clean Eating Bible and your plethora of educational material that has aided me in transforming my life. This little light of mine shines brightly and if you look real close you will see it manifested on my skin!!

By Nikki on Jul 19, 2010 - 3:21PM
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I have two tattoos myself and there is nothing at all wrong with having them and being proud of them. My first tattoo did not have any meaning behind it. However, when I got my second tattoo it has a lot of meaning. It is honor of my mother who died when I was 7 yrs old. I don't have a lot of memories of her but I do know that she loved me and that I honor her today and every day since I got the tattoo.

By CJ on Jul 19, 2010 - 3:27PM
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Done right, tattoos are sexy and tell a story. Live and let live. To label someone with a tattoo is ignorant and close-minded. I say, let your models show their personal side tattoo or not. Nothing more beautiful than personal expresssion, which is what fitness and modeling are about! .

By Patti on Jul 19, 2010 - 3:31PM
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Oxygen, this is more than an issue about a tattoo. This is about bashing each other! An earlier comment was made about overweight women walking around the gym in sports bras and shorts. At least they are there, working on their health! I personally have no interest in getting a tattoo, but I will defend any person's right to have one, or two or full body! At least they are not "Juicing" or using arificial means to abuse their bodies into what some consider "contest shape". My point is, let's stop bashing each other! There are enough people that consider the level of fitness supported by Ogygen to be ugly and unfeminine. That meay be their opinion, but let's keep on educating and converting them! Thanks Oxygen for all your do, in this regard! Bravo!

By Angel Fuson on Jul 19, 2010 - 3:40PM
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Tattoos are HOT if chosen and placed with class!! Show them if you got them!! :)

By Raquel on Jul 19, 2010 - 3:45PM
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Why doesn't everyone get off the tattoo?? The article isn't about tattoos but about building your delts. Her body looks great, most people have tattoos these days. SO WHO CARES ABOUT HER CUTE SMALL TATTOO! I am trying to pump up my delts so the last thing I noticed was a tattoo, that is why I order oxygen, for the fitness and training examples and ideas. Why don't you comment on, "how the workout works", not your opinion on what she does in her personal life.

By Nix on Jul 19, 2010 - 3:51PM
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I myself have tattoo's and definitely do not consider myself "trailer trash!". In fact I am offended by Joanna's comment. As some of the photo's demonstrate tattoo's can be works of art.

By Kenzo on Jul 19, 2010 - 3:56PM
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I am always saddened to see a tattoo in Oxygen Magazine. I have seen a couple others in the past. Oxygen is all about "being clean" which in my eyes is not polluting our bodies our temples. Kenzo

By Bonnie on Jul 19, 2010 - 4:05PM
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I personally think tattoos are ugly, but most people, including myself, are too kind to actually tell someone with tattoos that, but a lot of us are actually thinking, "yuck." This really fit swim instructor, with a low body-fat percentage, who teaches at the pool I go to has a tattoo on her hip and it makes her look like she has cellulite. I thought it was cellulite until I saw her very up close. I'm sure she has no clue about that!

By HabitualHealth on Jul 19, 2010 - 4:08PM
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Wow oh wow. I had to stop reading some of the posts. This brings me to my all time fav quote.."Remember to not be distracted by criticism. The only taste of success some people get is when they take a bite out of you". I have a visible half sleeve and 4 other tats and I LOVE them! I think they add character, edge and a sense of self confidence. People w Ink typically don't give a flip how others perceive them. Seems michelle is lacking somewhere/something in her own life. Happy, emotionally sound, fulfilled people don't attack or insult the character and self worth of another person. Oxygen represents all walks of life. Healthy living is a state of mind and lifestyle. I welcome anyone who'd care to debate how my Ink prohibits me from living a healthy (physically and emotionally) life. Haha

By Miranda Zimmer on Jul 19, 2010 - 4:12PM
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I found that statement to be ignorant as well. I actually could not believe it was even published; but maybe it was a good thing it was. I love tattoo's, I get a new one almost yearly; every tattoo has a meaning behind it, whether trivial or deep, but still a meaning. I feel that they are art; a way a person can tell their story without saying a word. I am glad to see so many comments on this because I want to compete but I thought that having tattoos (back, hip, pelvic bone, foot, forearm, ankle and stomach) actually limited me in doing so. If people would look around, tattoo's are everywhere, from all walks of life. You can choose not to have one, but don't judge people that do.

By Bonnie on Jul 19, 2010 - 4:15PM
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I personally think tattoos are ugly, but most people, including myself, are too kind to actually tell someone with tattoos that, but a lot of us are actually thinking, "yuck." This really fit swim instructor, with a low body-fat percentage, who teaches at the pool I go to has a tattoo on her hip and it makes her look like she has cellulite! I thought it was cellulite until I saw her very up close. I'm sure she has no clue about that!

By Kristin on Jul 19, 2010 - 4:19PM
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I have two tattoos that are very meaningful for me. I cannot believe that the tattoo was what was being noticed and not the gret physique the model had!! That is what is important!! Not the fact that she had a tattoo! WHO CARES!! We should be at a time in our society where tattoos are no longer taboo! I am glad that Oxygen showed the tattoo and did not cover it up! That made the model more real! Keep up the great work and show off more of your models tattoos!!!

By Monica Kalombo on Jul 19, 2010 - 4:25PM
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I love Oxygen mag and I don't care for tattoo's but too each is own. I know many people that have them and to me it takes alot from the beauty of a women to me. Tattoo's are not my cup of tea. So does anybody care about that! No! Not that big of a deal. Kids are starving what are we going to do about...now that's serious....

By Gina on Jul 19, 2010 - 4:36PM
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The women on this page have beautiful tattoos. I think some people are not happy unless they put someone down. Like one lady said to each his own. However, just keep the negative feedback to yourself. Oxygen is about being positive and I think we as women should lift each other up. If we were all the same what a boring world this would be. No tattoo yet but I am getting one!!!! I can't wait..

By Jessica on Jul 19, 2010 - 4:42PM
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I know I will never get one I don't like tattoo's but it's your body!!

By ****READ THIS!**** on Jul 19, 2010 - 4:47PM
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There are also physical health risks in getting tattoos. Is it worth ending up with Hepatitis C or some other contagious disease from unclean needles or ink? Can you really be sure your artist is using sterile supplies? Also, I have heard that in another country people are needing liver transplants from having tattoos because the body cannot detoxify itself. A fit body should be a healthy body and one you value by not taking unnecessary risks to!

By Rhonda on Jul 19, 2010 - 4:49PM
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Although I think the "trailer trash" comment was harsh I do believe it can look hard on a women especially as you age. Something that may look cute on a 20 something looks somewhat worn on a 40 something. Keep in mind what you may love when you are young MAY look out of place when you are a mom or a grandma.

By Jessica on Jul 19, 2010 - 5:03PM
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I have never seen a tattoo that I have liked All the people that put the tattoo pic's up did not inpress me at all! But it's your body you will have to live with it!

By Patti on Jul 19, 2010 - 5:07PM
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To each her own as they say- personally I feel tattoos are specifically distracting to an otherwise lean,fit, well defined shape. Let the hard earned definition from all that hard work from the weight room show as a stamp of personal statement instead of being covered up by ink.

By Melayna on Jul 19, 2010 - 5:14PM
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First thing that came to mind is just what to you have a baby that tattoo won't look good at all bad place to get one!

By Vanessa on Jul 19, 2010 - 5:16PM
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I love tattoos and I love working out! I'm 23 years old and I about a year ago I decided to get serious about workout and my diet. I love OXYGEN magazine and I tell all of my friends to subscribe to it too. I take care of my body and I don't see anything wrong with the Lina's tattoo either! She obviously has worked hard to maintain her figure. Here is a picture of my tattoo....

By Wanda E. Rodriguez on Jul 19, 2010 - 5:19PM
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Whoa, its amazing, part of a clean eating healthy life style I would assume includes acceptance for self and others. I personally admire women who choose to express themselves by getting a tattoo. Thanks to all the wonder strong women who shared theirs, they are beautiful. I have two myself, and there is a lot of ugly in this world, a tattoo in my eyes is not one of them.

By Roxy on Jul 19, 2010 - 5:20PM
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I prefer to have the models in Oxygen magazine not show tattoos. There are other magazines dedicated to tattoos. Oxygen is not a magazine about tattoos and its focus should be about healthy bodies without tattoos.

By Marie on Jul 19, 2010 - 5:26PM
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Tattoo like peircing is a personal choice. Who are we to juge if it's appropriate or not for a fitness model? It dosen't matter if I like it or not, that's personal taste... I am very impressed that people would focus on that with all the amazing info that you can find in oxygen... Soon people will start complaning that a lot of models have breast implants...

By shauna gonsalves on Jul 19, 2010 - 5:27PM
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Tattoos are beautiful and so is the cover model sporting one, what is not beautiful is the negative spew that comes from the criticizers mouth. Keep your nasty comments to yourself, this magazine is about empowering each other and loving our bodies these models are only human and have beauty marks scars and tattoos to each their own

By diane on Jul 19, 2010 - 5:31PM
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who is that person to judge somebody and call them trailer trash, just because of a tatoo, if she judges everybody by the cover i am sure she has no friends,because in this day and age everybody is different and experss themselves differently dosnt make them a bad person.I always tell my kids if we were all the same life would be so boring.

By Peggy on Jul 19, 2010 - 5:32PM
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I really don't think fitness models should have tattoos.

By Nicki on Jul 19, 2010 - 5:38PM
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It is interesting to read all the defensive comments from those that have tattoos. It seems that you need to convince yourselves that you didn't make a mistake putting a permanent tattoo on your body! Maybe you did make a mistake as well as those now having their tattoos removed.

By JC on Jul 19, 2010 - 5:40PM
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the Fit Jerk sent me over here to see what the fuss was about. I love women and I love tattoos. Thus, I really love it when the two are combined. I see no reason to judge someone because they decide to get a tattoo. Sure, it may look tacky to *you.* And you reserve the right to make such judgments - just don't go about projecting them on everyone. tootles.

By nicole on Jul 19, 2010 - 5:58PM
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Ignorance is bliss, these women commenting on the fitness models tattoo apparently have nothing better to do and are extremely jealous. If you are going to judge someone based on a tattoo then you must be an uneducated, hateful individual who can't stand their own lives. Judge yourself before you comment on innocent people who have never met

By Liberty on Jul 19, 2010 - 6:01PM
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Honestly I am shocked that people can be so judgemental nowawdays. How can Michelle and others call somebody with a tattoo trailer trash, fat or blue collar??? I have 2 tattoos and i did not get them until later in life. One represents my 4 beautiful children and the other is for my dad who died of cancer 3 yrs ago. I read Oxygen and I think the body is a beautiful thing. To accent it with art makes it even more beautiful. Everywhere I go I get compliments on my tattoos. By the way I own a Martial Arts Studio. So I'm no fat, trailer trash, low life. I help children, and charities, and people with low self asteem. A tattoo doesn't make anybody who they are, it compliments who they are!! Oxygen, Keep up the good work. I recommend your magazine to all my adult students (men and women alike).

By Abbie on Jul 19, 2010 - 6:07PM
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I personally do not like tattoos and would never want one. Why would anyone want to deface their body unless it is part of their heritage (Hawaiian's, etc...)? It detracts from the natural beauty especially for fitness buffs.

By MissVicky on Jul 19, 2010 - 6:07PM
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While I don't have any tats, nor plan to get them I don't have anything to say about someone elses. I can't isht what someone else eats. People should live their lives as they see fit.

By Jenn on Jul 19, 2010 - 6:08PM
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I'm cool with showing tattoos. They show indivduality and i love knowing the stories behind them. I don't have any... no reason, I just don't. I don't judge if you do. Especially I don't judge a magazine based off if a model has one or not. Tattoos can add to a photo and to a person. Shows they are people just like us readers. Your loving reader, Jenn N

By penguin girl on Jul 19, 2010 - 6:09PM
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Tattoos are a class distinction. Enough said.

By Steph on Jul 19, 2010 - 6:25PM
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Why should the tattoo be airbrushed off? It's part of the models real body, so show it!! If her body was airbrushed to perfection like other magazines we would all be outraged!! Tattoo or not, I want to see real women in the magazine, not a bunch of faked airbrushed ones! Even though I wouldn't get a tattoo myself, I see nothing wrong with showing them! More magazines need to get real and let us celebrate our bodies instead of trying to fix everything! Go Oxygen!!

By Kari on Jul 19, 2010 - 6:26PM
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I wouldn't put a bumper sticker on a Bentley and I wouldn't put a tattoo on me. But to each their own. Her particular tattoo was NOT pretty on that gorgeous body, but if she likes it, it's hers to live with.

By Kimberly on Jul 19, 2010 - 6:33PM
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Class distinction, trailer trash? Wow...there are so many other things we should be talking about.

By Grossed out on Jul 19, 2010 - 6:46PM
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This is amazing. I haven't run across people calling me "white trash" or "low class" or "uneducated"at all. Thanks people. Appreciate it. Good to know you're out there. I would not call you that without knowing you, but there you are, making those judgement calls without knowing me or what I am about. I thought we were in this together. Shouldn't we love everyone? I didn't get my tattoos for you all anyway. And I won't regret them when I am older because I got them when I was in my early 30's. What else you got?

By Kristyn on Jul 19, 2010 - 6:48PM
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I have a bible verse tattoo.......is that ugly????? This isn't the 1800's anymore.........open up a little!

By Shannon on Jul 19, 2010 - 6:54PM
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Again, stereotypes! Tattooing has been apart of many cultures for thousands of years. Many religious cultures believe tattooing is sacred and beautiful. To each their own in terms if they like tattoos or not. But you will never hear a tattooed person judge someone for not having a tattoo. "The tattoo is the mark of the soul. It can act as a window through which we can see inside, or it can be a shield to protect us from those who cannot see past the surface!" p.s I have a degree, diploma, on my way to a second degree, I bought my first home at 25 and continue to be successful in my careers. I also have half-sleeve, leg piece along with several others on my body.

By Megan on Jul 19, 2010 - 6:56PM
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Tattoos are not attractive or healthy....period. Guaranteed that most people who get a tattoo regret it later in life.

By livinglifefree on Jul 19, 2010 - 7:00PM
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Tatoos are a personal thing, but definetly are a negative reflection.

By Jen on Jul 19, 2010 - 7:16PM
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Wow, what a hot topic. Tattoos are art. The beauty of art is in the eye of the beholder. You should not judge others for what you see. There is always so much more than the eyes portray. For the lady who has the MD and thinks we are all trailer trash, I feel sorry for you as you cannot see the world with an open mind nor see all the beauty it portrays.

By Ashley on Jul 19, 2010 - 7:18PM
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I say just leave all alone. One person was upset you already published her convern and then continued with the outrage in the current month - lets just move on already - lets get back to the actual reason for uour publication and get down with fitness -MOVE ON ALREADY

By Georgie on Jul 19, 2010 - 7:32PM
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I think that many of the tats on here are beyond beautiful. I am 63 years young, not trash of any kind, even a Great Grandma. I have 5 tats that have a lot of meaning to me. Some that are very Spiritual. Women with tattoos ROCK.

By Tona on Jul 19, 2010 - 7:34PM
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Those negative comments about people with tattoos are more examples of the narrow minded prejudiced people that are living among us in the year 2010. I love your magazine, and I hope you don't lower your standards by posting any more negative comments by people that who are so quick to judge.

By Ana Est?vez on Jul 19, 2010 - 7:42PM
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Like jewels or make up, tattoos can be beautiful, ugly, ridiculous, amazing, cute, a deep personal symbol or just plain fashion, and like a perfume, for some people the same aroma can be mesmerizing or horrible, but I cannot understand what does a tattoo has to do with clean eating and pumping iron. A truly beautiful person would respect the others and judge people based on actions, not a tattoo.

By rosamaria on Jul 19, 2010 - 8:00PM
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As a regular reader of oxygen i have notice an increase in models with tattoos. I do admit some are a real work of art, heck i even have friends and family who have'em, but i don't like them and bypass sections of the magazine when i notice them. This is a personal opinion and am not trying to impose my view on others. If we are going to talk about clean eating, clean bodies and a healthy life style, well simply put; oxygen magazine would not exist. 3/4 of the models have breast implants and that alone breaks all the rules of michelle's point of view. If we are going to go to that extreme then it would be bye, bye oxygen mag., and well simply put oxygen has more positive than negative aspects. So I guess the bottom line is: TO EACH HIS/HER OWN!

By Janice Shephard on Jul 19, 2010 - 8:13PM
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Wow I am speechless, I never would of thought that someone could be called such harsh words from just having a simple tattoo on their body. Simply shows how low class that person truly is. I don't think that Oxygen lowered their standards at all. Actually they impressed me by stepping out the box. I my self have several tattoos one specifically on my back is the image of a butterfly which signifies change and the metaphor of what happens before the butterfly is created. I have lost over 60 pounds and been through some trying times. My tattoo to me means how I transformed myself into a new person, and believe me I am far from trailer trash. I am employed by one of the top companies to date and have been for over 10 yrs. People with such strong and harsh opinions have there own insecurities and need to learn how to deal with them starting from the inside. And by the way what is the definition of trailer trash. If that is all someone is capable of having or being, then pray for them not criticize. G

By Lyndsey on Jul 19, 2010 - 8:14PM
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Hey Bonnie, Really? Too polite to say what you feel? Whatever. You are one of those phony/coward/two-faced people with no backbone and I'm gonna give you a clue... if you're female, you have cellulite, too, sweetie! But you are probably too kind to tell yourself that, right? How's that for judgmental? Who are you, Miss America? Get over yourself.

By Hui on Jul 19, 2010 - 8:20PM
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Every has their own individual right to do what they want to do. Have you looked at the women that grace the pages of Oxygen? They are fabulous, fit and above all warrant much admiration for their hard work and dedication to their physique. Tattoo or not, you're missing the point...these women look amazing. And tattoos are very mainstream and individualistic. I think the women look terrific!

By Lori on Jul 19, 2010 - 8:48PM
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I have five tattos and plan on getting more...it is your right to have whatever opinion you have...and this is mine...I love my tats and if you don't, don't look...each on means something different to me. As for calling people like me trailer trash....say that to my face...or just keep your opinions like that to yourself.

By Trish on Jul 19, 2010 - 8:49PM
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I think Michelle needs to lighten up a little and get with the times. Who are you to judge anyone? I think it's you that needs to work on keep your standards in check and stop judging others. Oxygen your doing a great job at representing women and fitness.

By Lisa D on Jul 19, 2010 - 8:50PM
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Think before you brand yourself. They can be beautiful but they are there to stay. Tattoo removal is a growing industry for a reason. Cute on the lower back of a 20 something, faded and distorted by 40, looks like a skin problem by 65.

By Danielle on Jul 19, 2010 - 8:52PM
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I understand that everyone is entitled to their opinion, but it shouldn't come at other peoples expense! I have 3 tattoos and feel that when done right they can be beautiful. Let's remember why we are reading this magazine, to build strong, muscular, healthy bodies. I don't think that has anything to do with tattoos!

By Maria on Jul 19, 2010 - 9:10PM
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I have to agree with Chris B. giving his two cents worth. Sadly, tattoos make women look cheap and skanky.... :o/

By Jenn on Jul 19, 2010 - 9:18PM
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Such a shame that some women have to be so caddy!!!! The model looks amazing whether she is tattooed or not!! You need to remember tattoos are a personal expression for each individual. Oxygen magazine is a health and fitness source, and a great one at that, if you want to continue to pick women apart and throw your worthless opinions around, then join the country club!!

By Sara S on Jul 19, 2010 - 9:23PM
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Lina is beautiful regardless of tattoo. I do not have any tattoos but I think Michelle is out of line. Oxygen has very high standards but in the areas that count. Having a tattoo does not justify whom you are, we are all different and beautiful in our own ways. I think Michelle and those that judge a tattoo need to do some self reflection and realize we as Oxygen readers look to Oxygen for motivation, information, beauty and the desire to continue to improve upon ourselves not for judgement of the kiss ass models:)

By Christina on Jul 19, 2010 - 9:49PM
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I think it is incredibly close minded and sterotypical to assume that people with tattoos are somehow bad or unhealthy individuals. I have many tattoos that I consider all works of art that have meaning to me. I love it when I see Oxygen girls with tattoos because it tells me that I can still do what they do and having tattoos are okay. I want to compete someday but I don't want to be part of anything that can't accept me as an individual. And, in a way, it's like they are breaking the sterotype of what the masses think of people with ink. Thanks Oxygen!

By Regina Thibodeaux on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:02PM
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Personally I think tatoos are trashy looking. I would not have one, but this my preference. The model has a nice body but attention is drawn to the tatoo which makes her less attractive.

By Shelly G on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:10PM
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We supposedly live in a country where people die every day to protect our individual rights, and here we go critizing someone who has tattoos. I'm not trailer trash, I work in upper management and have two tattoos that mean a great deal to me. If yo udon't like them, don't look at them.

By Marissa on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:16PM
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I have one tattoo. It is an anklette with both of my children's names written above two hearts. Tattoos are definitely an expression of who you are. There will always be naysayers, but who cares what they say?!! You are who you are and no one can judge you because of a tattoo. Oxygen is the best mag on the shelves, and good for them to have a model on the cover sporting her tattoo, I'm sure her tattoo has a good story to go along with it!

By Shelly G on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:17PM
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Ok, let me try this again. We live in a country where freedom of speech is defended every day, lives are lost and here we are upset over someone's tattoo? I'm not trailer trash and my tattoos have meaning for me. Bottom line, if you don't like them, don't look at them. Exercise your freedoms that have come at the lives of so many, but don't criticize and insult others in the mean time.

By Lalani Malley on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:30PM
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I don't see the problem with tat's, it is art for some, and cultural for others. It can be a very spiritually bond, or a cute fashion. Whatever the reason is, we are not the one's to judge. Oxygen Magazine!! For the women , who takes health and fitness to the next level. No matter what background you come from, OUR BODY MATTERS. MMA GIRLS FIGHT HARD!

By Angie on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:40PM
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Madeline, seriously? Tattoos look like dirt and they are only to be put in a private spot? Then they are sexy? Come out of your dark closet and join the rest of the world.

By Robin on Jul 19, 2010 - 10:45PM
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A Tattoo can be attractive on a very young person but looks terrible on more mature skin and no matter how healthy your lifestyle, everyone's skin will show the wear and tear of life. What makes this practice most unattractive is so many people go over overboard in their desire for ink... and too much of anything can be a bad thing. I wonder how many people will regret getting large and numerous tattoos when they are 40+ Beyond that, I work in healthcare and have seen the results of HepC, one of the big risks with tattooing.

By Liz on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:10PM
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Even though I don't prefer tattoos myself (on men or women) and like to see a clean body, I don't fault others if they want one. Whether we like it or not, society still judges people based on what they look like, how they carry themselves, their car, their habits (such as smoking) yes, it's petty and superficial, but it's human nature. In addition, there are health risks to tattoos such as Hep C, skin infections, allergic reactions to the ink, etc.... I can't see that it's worth the potential health risk. I wonder how cute a little butt tattoo is once someone has aged and it's no longer "North" where it should be. I see a lot of retirees in Florida who are too tan and very wrinkled, their tattoos are quite unattractive! But it's the owner's choice in the end.....

By McNabb on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:16PM
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Seriously, if you do not like tattoos, you have the choice to look away. I have 11 tattoos total and they are not trashy or dirty. They are beautiful and I do not regret them at all. I take care of my body with a healthy lifestyle. And for the record, if you go to a respectable tattoo shop, you do not need to worry about Hepatitis transfer. Do not judge all tattoo shops because of knowledge of a few filthy ones. I am a police officer and have dealt with all types of people at work. I think people would be surprised with the amount of upper class people that have tattoos. So next time you go to your highly respected doctor, just remember they have a tattoo as well. And that makes me feel so great. (o: Embrace each other. Women have to stop being each other's worst enemies. Tattoos are for everyone regardless of the social class or race. Spread love and Oxygen, please do not airbrush a single tattoo out of your magazine. And I have seen several tattoos displayed over the years so thanks, Oxygen!!!

By ESBarr on Jul 19, 2010 - 11:16PM
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I'm old so tatoos are not something to be admired.

By Jill T on Jul 20, 2010 - 12:20AM
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"Tatoos are a personal thing, but definetly are a negative reflection"' Negative reflection on what? You all see what you want to see. If you see it as negative then you are seeing it with a negative judging eye which is really just a reflection of what you see inside yourself that you project outward. Tattoos are a form of personal expression just like the clothes or jewelry we we decide to wear. Stop judging. Seriously. There are higher things to deal with in this life. It's 2010. Geez.

By anna on Jul 20, 2010 - 12:35AM
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Hello I personally love tatoos I have 2 it is a form of art. I think the comment the person made was a little harsh i know everyone has there own opininon but i think there sexy. I think if there all over your body then thats a little to much, but again i personally love them.

By Natya on Jul 20, 2010 - 1:12AM
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So many passionate posts,toward to tattoo or no??! The model in the Oxygen mag is well proportioned toned and lean. Is that not what we seek in our goals?? Please continue to put models in the mag who have tattoo and also those who cover them up or don't have them. It is through our individuality, our uniqueness that bonds us to a whole.

By Teresa on Jul 20, 2010 - 4:44AM
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I do not have a tattoo. My opinion is that if I can have abs like that and make a tattoo look that good, where do I sign up. The tattoo is not distasteful and in fact I did not even notice it because I was looking at her abs. That of which I am sure was the intended purpose of the photo.

By Angela G on Jul 20, 2010 - 5:50AM
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I'm disappointed that people can still have something to complain/judge on. I have tattoos and think they are a form of art. The tattoo is not the issue how she transformed her body into the temple it is should be the focus. I will be further disappointed if you decided to cover up tattoos on models bcause of some people's ridiculous notions. Keep up the good work Oxygen! I love your magazine.

By anne on Jul 20, 2010 - 7:11AM
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I think They are awful and would hope that my girls never get one everyone has a right to thier own body.

By Diane Smith on Jul 20, 2010 - 7:23AM
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Tattoos are a personal choice. I PERSONALLY don't like the look of them. I don When I see a beautiful model in your magazine with tattoos...PERSONALLY I don't feel she looks classy and sexy...I PERSONALLY feel they make a woman look 'cheap'. Again, that is MY opinion...and yes, you asked!

By Ingrid on Jul 20, 2010 - 8:08AM
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I don't think a tattoo takes away from the beauty of your body. It's a shame that people can't look beyond ink to see the hard work and beauty that is really in someone.

By Jodie on Jul 20, 2010 - 8:25AM
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I look at tattoos on other people and wonder what they signify to that person. I have tattoos - my first was the result of a dare but it is something that has meaning to me. My other tattoos are the result of a lot of thought over whether they are significant enough to keep forever. A model with a tattoo? Love it. Why should she be denigrated by others because of a choice she has made that means something significant to her? Why should this woman be insulted because people who can't see past the tattoo regard her as low rent? Oxygen promotes healthy eating, healthy lifestyle. This model reflects healthy eating and a healthy lifestyle. A tattoo?? hmmm, nope can't see how that could possibly be the antithesis of the healthy eating and healthy lifestyle. It was her choice. You either like it or you don't. Alright people! Time to move on!

By Susan on Jul 20, 2010 - 9:32AM
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I am from the generation that expressed ourselves by going braless. Who am I to judge a young woman for her choices. She may express herself in any way she chooses as long as she harms noone, including herself. She is a beautiful fit woman.

By ElleRae on Jul 20, 2010 - 9:32AM
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The difference between someone who has tattoos and someone who doesn't is that the one with tattoos doesn't care if you don't have them.

By tia on Jul 20, 2010 - 10:10AM
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I think that tattoos on women are simply beautiful and should be admired. In my opinion if a woman can express herself and be comfortable in her own skin she is already a stronger person. Being an avid lifter and a woman who has tattoos I would say get some ink and lift, it only makes you more gorgeous!

By Sarah on Jul 20, 2010 - 10:38AM
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When we judge another person, we risk becoming intolerant!

By Moni on Jul 20, 2010 - 10:40AM
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Personally, I don't care for tattoos. I don't think they bring any beauty to anything. I have a small tattoo that I got when I was young, and I'm very glad I had it placed very discretely. I'm 44 years old.

By Missy10 on Jul 20, 2010 - 10:47AM
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Tattoos are a personal choice. I love the one I have and will get another when I turn 50! Don't judge. Live your life and let others live theirs!

By Diovy on Jul 20, 2010 - 11:04AM
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I don't think that it is anybody's right to judge those who love tattoos, they were always a sign of strength in several tribes they symbolize belonging to a clan or to demonstrate that you got your first hunt. I have three tattoes, a rose to remind me that I'm beautiful, an angel with my daughter's name and a tribal turtle to remember to have patience and I'm far from trashie and I have never done drugs (NEVER). If you don't like them no problem I'm not going to hold you down so you could have one, but then restrain yourself from insulting others who likes them. To each its own!!!

By Jessica on Jul 20, 2010 - 11:21AM
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I have been a loyal Oxygen subscriber and work out fanatic for years, and this is not the first fitness model that has graced their pages with visible tattoos, so why the uproar? Tattoos are a personal choice, and I don't see anything wrong with them. I can respect people liking them or not, it is a choice and an opinion. I am also pierced and tattooed, and I could care less what people say in the gym, I'm not there to socialize I'm there to work out. This is 2010, and tattoos have become very acceptable. This fitness model has worked hard and lives a healthy lifestyle and should be proud of who she is and the fact that she can be a role model in a fitness magazine for others. Her tattoo reflects her personal choice, and that's what it boils down to, HER personal choice. We are all entitled to an opinion, but no one has the right to belittle her or rip her to shreds for it. You may not like her tattoo, but you cannot assume that it detracts from her fitness lifestyle, because from the look of her physique it obviously doesn't! Just remember, for every finger you point at someone else, four fingers are pointing right back at you! Before you judge someone else, maybe you should analyze your own issues. Ladies, if we learn to support each other instead of rip each other apart, society would be a lot further along to getting along! Keep up the great work, Oxygen! Don't let a little ignorance change the magazine!

By Ashley on Jul 20, 2010 - 11:42AM
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I think that a tattoo detracts from the beauty of the body. To me it is similar to graffiti and most people would agree it's tacky. I understand that it is a personal choice and if someone wants one, that's there business, but don't get made when others think its trashy.

By MJean on Jul 20, 2010 - 11:48AM
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This is not the first tattoo to be shown in Oxygen. I have been a subscriber for 3 years now and have seen a few in the magazine before. The focus should not be on the tattoo. It should be on the workout and the body shape of the model. I think this whole discussion and distraction could have been avoided by airbrushing the tattoo out. From a business perspective, it makes sense to try and keep the focus on the articles purpose and subtract distractions. I have nothing against tattoos. However, it is obvious that through this discussion the purpose of the workout article was totally missed by the distraction caused by the tattoo. I think the reader who responded to the tattoo being shown got exactly what she wanted, attention.

By Evangeline on Jul 20, 2010 - 11:54AM
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I personally dont like to see women with tatoos on their bodies. Some are beautiful but I think a womans body should be her temple. IF being healthy inside is important should not being healthy outside be to. A womans skin is softer than a mans and silky. A woman is a feminen being and i think tatooes unnessarily add a bit of hardness. I wish they were never invented and they are becoming the obsestion there is not a teen over 18 teen i see now who does not have at least one Stop scaring the skin on purpose. I think the models on oxygen are beautiful and fit, I love your magazine and what it stands for. I just dont think it serves a true purpose. I dont have any and my husband either. I teach my kids to love their bodies and take care of them. Inside and out I disagree but I cant stop anyone from doing what they want. God does not want us to mark are bodies.

By Sherry Vockert on Jul 20, 2010 - 12:23PM
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Tatoos are a personal choice of each individual. Just like anything else, some people like them, and some don't. I have two tatoos, and I'm far from trailor trash. I'm a mom of 3, and work fulltime as a Fire Inspector & Firefighter. I look at tatoos as art & personal expression. I take care of my body, and don't think that putting ink on our skin defines who we are as a person.

By Jaclyn on Jul 20, 2010 - 12:26PM
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It is really sad to live in a society that still bases everything off of stereotypes. Anyone who believes that tattoos represent ignorance or white trash is in obvious need of an education. Tattoos are an art form and self expression. It is a painful process and one not taken lightly by those who have tattoos, it is also not taken lightly when people judge others based on a tattoo. If someone has a tattoo that is there personal decision, and their form of expression, we live in a country that allows people to express themselves freely. By telling someone they cannot be healthy, fit, or smart because they have a tattoo, is the equivalent of telling a female she cannot work because she has a vagina. So get off your high horse and quit judging others. In regards to the "God does not want us to mark are bodies statement" tattoos are only mentioned once in the bible, and it says that marking your body is only a sin, if it is done in remembrance of the dead. No where else is it mentioned, so before you start talking for God and his wishes, try doing some research on his book.

By Gresia on Jul 20, 2010 - 12:43PM
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You know, people make decisions often early in life. Every one has a right to their own choices. The important thing is that they make their own efforts to live a fit lifestyle, and work for what they have. So what if they choose to decorate their body, it speaks to their character.

By Angela on Jul 20, 2010 - 12:58PM
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?The greatest ignorance is to reject something you know nothing about? The tattoo on the model was the last thing I saw! I saw a healthy, beautiful woman that has no problem with self expression. Keep up the great motivating work!!

By Heidi on Jul 20, 2010 - 1:12PM
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It looks like a lot of your readers are pretty narrow minded - how sad to go through life like that!!! I am an avid reader of oxygen mag and also live the clean lifestyle, training 6 days a week...I have tattoos all over and am sleeved...I get compliments on my ink all the time ... esp at the gym! I've never once regretted any of my tattoos -

By maria on Jul 20, 2010 - 1:15PM
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tattoos are beautiful, they reflect some meaning in a person's life and something everyone can see & share. I have a dove & a prayer on my back shoulder and everyone who has seen it from teenager to a old teacher comments on how beautiful and meaningful it must be. people ask permission to read it and it offers inspiration and strength to whoever does.

By Robin Dunham on Jul 20, 2010 - 2:26PM
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Aren''t people funny?! I mean who cares if someone sports a tattoo. Now if it was a swastika, then you have bitchin' rights!

By Amy on Jul 20, 2010 - 2:36PM
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I don't like to judge. I personally don't tattoos thats my choice for what ever reason and I don't care to force that on any one but my kids.lol This whole tattoo issue shouldn't take away from the whole reason this lady is featured in this article; hard work,dedication, and her awesome results! Who cares what she chooses to do with and to her body. She is STILL my motivation!! Thank God we have to choice to do as WE please in this life!

By Cupcake on Jul 20, 2010 - 3:57PM
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Wait....wait....wait. Are there really, REALLY people on here that are spewing the hackneyed line of "when you are 65 and wrinkled it won't look nice" line? Seriously? I have a news flash for you: When you are 65, wrinkled, pocked, spotted and sagging in all the wrong places the very best looking thing about your naked a$$ may indeed be a piece of well preserved art and if your art has deteriorated along with your body, skin and physique then lets face it - ain't no one gonna be wanting to gaze upon your wilted, raisin imitating nakedness so will you really be any worse off? If you are this narrow minded and judgmental it will likely be your character and personality that puts people off. Sheesh.

By Jenny on Jul 20, 2010 - 4:05PM
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What is next tattooing on shadowing to make it look like a person has a six-pack when they don't? If your magazine allows tattoos maybe you are also allowing airbrushing, makeup shadowing, and/or other unnatural ways. Your magazine is about beautifying the body through healthy foods and exercise. I wish some of your readers would feel beautiful as they are/were, without the misbelief that they need to tattoo their bodies.

By Twinkltoes on Jul 20, 2010 - 4:47PM
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I am born & raised in Hawaii. Having a tatoo for most natives here (regardless of their skin color) are generally directed as spiritual. They do not not affect our healthy life style or judgement on others. Most of my fitness friends have one and they have done well in their life style what ever it may be. I'd say that a few of you are insecure with your life style and very unhappy with yourselves. Most likely have jealousies more towards ladies that work hard in fittness to achieve their their great body compositions.

By sam on Jul 20, 2010 - 4:56PM
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Nice catch Divi. Oxygen simply "flopped" the image, a technique that's widely used in publishing. For all you Lina fans, the clover's on the left side!

By silly on Jul 20, 2010 - 5:03PM
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I am a person who doesn't have any tattoos, and I think its plain stupid to make a big deal out of a tiny tattoo on a BEAUTIFUL LADY! Who cares if she has a tattoo, get over it. If you don't like them then just simply dont pay attention to them!!!!! Stop waisting your time and the people that work with this magazine's time! Ps. Get over yourself and take your "tattoo anger" out to the gym. Maybe you'll actually get motivated to be a more positive person, and to embrase every person for who they are..tattoos or none.

By Dana Joyner on Jul 20, 2010 - 5:20PM
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I am happily and proudly tattooed and love to show em off along with muscles at the gym and do not feel they detract from natural beauty any more than a cute outfit or makeup. Whats the difference?

By Anna on Jul 20, 2010 - 5:25PM
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I see nothing wrong with tattoos. If a woman or a man chooses to get a tattoo then that is their perogative. Just because a woman has a tattoo does not make her "trailer trash" as one writer put it....now that statement is ignornant and uncalled for. There is nothing at all wrong with Lina Jade?s shamrock tattoo. Lina is a beautiful fitness model and the tattoo should not distract readers of Oxygen or any other magazine of the real message behind the article or workout. If one gets distracted by a tattoo then maybe he or in this case she needs to get a life. I love Oxygen Magazine and it is the one and only fitness magazine that I read and fitness models like Lina should continue to be featured for their healthy lifestyles.

By Danica on Jul 20, 2010 - 6:05PM
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I have one tattoo that I got as a 31st birthday present to myself last year. I love it, and I feel it doesn't distract from anything, especially my workouts! How your body looks after all of your hardwork in the gym has nothing to do with a tattoo...it has to do with the time you put in to look how you want.

By Lorraine on Jul 20, 2010 - 6:13PM
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I don't know if I should laugh or cry at the ignorance of this person who, obviously, has a very narrow vision (blinkers) of the world in general and obviously lacks in general culture. The net is a wonderful tool for you to gain such a general culture. Tattoos have a long history as a form of art, and, since more or less the year 2000, have become as fashionable and elegant as jewelry. I am a 5'10" slim, elegant lawyer in my mid-forties and I am, at the moment, looking around to get a discreet one that will match my personality.

By Ella on Jul 20, 2010 - 6:43PM
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I believe all tattoos are repulsive but I also believe that the people who have them can still be brilliant, beautiful and good people.

By Amanda on Jul 20, 2010 - 8:41PM
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Tattoos enhance our beauty.

By Marlene on Jul 20, 2010 - 8:57PM
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I wanted to comment on the tattoo issue. I have always said that the human body is a machine and to turn that machine into a work of art is to be admired. When I read what Michelle said about tattoos being ugly, I thought what an ignorant comment. In January 2009, my 39 year old sister, who had been fighting lung cancer for over two years, was told she had weeks to live. She made my other two sisters and I promise we would never forget her. Of course, in my heart I needed to give her more than words. I went out and got a tattoo of angel wings and a halo on my leg. I showed it to her and told her there was no way I would forget her. I asked if I could add her name and she loved the "tribute" to her. Someone asked what I was going to do when I was 80 and the tattoo begins to sag. I proudly replied,"I'm going to thank God I lived so long"

By Tuwanda on Jul 20, 2010 - 9:30PM
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I was truly shocked by Michelle's comments regarding Lina's tattoo. Personally, the tattoo never entered my thoughts because I was more focused on the Delts article. I learn something new with each of the Oxygen issues. Love the magazine!

By ashkolsen on Jul 20, 2010 - 10:08PM
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Since when is self-expression ugly. Some may choose symbols that others of us don't understand but, to say that tattoos are ugly is to insuniate that many of us are walking around is a state of homeliness. I don't think there are as many of us willing to be labeled as such - we take pride in wearing a piece of art that represents and event, feeling or idea that is part of who we are ! Maybe some should open their minds to "feeling & expierencing" instead of just being prejudice of those they don't know.

By Sury on Jul 20, 2010 - 10:43PM
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People who think that having a tatoo is trashy they are just wrong. I don't have one myself I don't want any, but people do whatever they want to their bodies and if it's only One or 2 a few is not bad. I seen tatoos all over on females and on some I must say I don't like how it looks because it's too much but that's their choice and if they're happy that way so let them be.

By Carolina on Jul 20, 2010 - 10:48PM
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Clean Eating, Clean Imagine, Clean Body.

By morgan on Jul 20, 2010 - 11:44PM
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Wow there are some beautiful women with beautiful artwork on their bodies on this page. I think tatoos are an individual choice. I would hate to think that my fav magazine would not show certain women who have worked so incredibly hard to grace its pages because of their body art.

By Dee on Jul 21, 2010 - 9:27AM
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I am rather amazed. I read the comments in the mag and was irritated enough then, but reading a few comments in on this page... wow. I just had to stop! You ladies are fabulous! Keep it up! After I read the 'Michelle' comment originally, I was very annoyed - because, yes, I have some ink as well as piercings (can imagine what she'd say about those!). But after thinking about it and seeing some of the outrage on here - all I can think is "ignorance is bliss" (for her). People who feel holier than thou will always have a voice AND an opinion - unfortunately - but I prefer to use it to my advantage... to work out more and get in even better shape. Tats, piercings and all! Keep making your bodies healthy and beautiful - inside and out!

By Melissa on Jul 21, 2010 - 10:57AM
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I am a Christian woman and I think some tattoos are distasteful if they are dirty and vulgar. I don't understand what's wrong with clean fun tattoos. Our bodies are just a shell. What counts is the soul on the inside. Don't you agree?

By Wendi on Jul 21, 2010 - 12:48PM
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I already had part of a comment published in the magazine but wanted to add that I agree with Francesca, how great would it be if woman were supportive of one another, all shapes and sizes, tatts or no? Maybe we'd all be clean-eating, ripped machines, full of love and compassion, because there would be no more emotional eating and lack of self love. We'd feel it around us all the time through our friends...

By Cassandra on Jul 21, 2010 - 3:16PM
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As a Sailor in the US Navy, I have about ten tattoos, which all have significance for me. However, they are located in places that they are not easily seen unless I am in a swimsuit. I may be a little crazy sometimes, but I'm not trashy and I consider my body to be a work of art in progress...it doesn't make me less of a person. People who feel bad about themselves will go to any length to point out the flaws in others. Unless you are judging a competition keep your thoughts to yourself.

By Kendra on Jul 21, 2010 - 4:03PM
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Showing tattoos in Oxygen would only be appropriate on the pages describing the model's personal life. However, on the other pages for showing exercises they should be covered up. Just like actresses in movies have to cover up their tattoos to play a role, the models are playing a role of representing the exercise.

By Kirsty on Jul 21, 2010 - 4:35PM
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Be it, I have only had an opportunity to read a handful of the comments posted regarding the photo publish, I find it rather upsetting the negativity that is being sent out toward this photo and women who choose to express themselves through the art of tattoos. A few comments did how stand out to which I feel it necessary to rebut. I consider myself a very successful hard working lawyer who has adopted and lived true to the clean lifestyle and by no means do I consider myself, let alone my tattoos to be the "trailor trash or blue collar". My tattoos represent and embody obstacles and challenges that I have endured and conquered through my life. It is unfortunate that others feel it neccessary to judge others physically by something that may be incredibly personal. I respect all women to choose to do what they want with their bodies, whether they are a mother, solider, body builder or the woman behind the counter at the grocery store. Life and choices are to expressed not condemned especially by your fellow women.

By Angela Marie on Jul 21, 2010 - 5:32PM
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Now I do not have any tattoos but I could honestly care less if our Oxygen models have them. I just respect all of them and their decision to get them done. It's not you so why does it matter? Respect others people!!! Ink is no reason to fight at all. It's really stupid that people have to act like their five years old. Come on, did we not learn this in elementary school?

By Holy Shiza on Jul 21, 2010 - 5:41PM
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I have two tattoos myself and love them. I got them in areas that the only people that see them, are my husband and myself. I was BEYOND offended that Oxygen even printed that article because it has nothing to do with fitness, it is all about a menial tattoo. I also am a professional with tattoos and *gasp* piercings which are also in places people wouldn't "see". Since that article printed, I have not bought one of their issues, and if they refuse to put models on with tattoos I will never again buy a magazine from them. I dont know why we never see women with stretch marks... Anyhow let's just stick to fitness and mindless chit chat about tattoos leave it out!

By Jennifer on Jul 21, 2010 - 6:02PM
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The women featured in Oxygen are fit, healthy, beautiful, strong, etc......please keep doing what your doing and don't alter their image. That would be saying they are not beautiful as they are!

By Linda on Jul 21, 2010 - 6:32PM
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I don't have tattoos but what is the big deal. Don't you ladies have anything more important to worry about.

By Jessica on Jul 21, 2010 - 9:25PM
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I just don't get why the tattoo moved on her body... in one picture it is on the right and the other it is on the left of her navel? I actually thought it was airbrushed on for the march issue cause of the saint patrick theme... can someone explain that?

By Alphonso Allen on Jul 21, 2010 - 9:48PM
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Love and grace covers a multiude of sin. God looks at the heart not the outward appearance of His people. Make Him your personal Savior and Lord today John 3:16 Romans 10:9-10 http://www.cre8yurody.com

By Jena on Jul 21, 2010 - 10:02PM
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Ok I had to chime in on this tattoo issue. I was offended by the comments made from those that are offended by tattoos. Everyone gets tattoos for different reasons. I got my 1st one when I was at the lowest point in my life, fat, depressed, and on the verge of suicide. One night, sitting on my couch wishing I was dead, I thought "what the hell am I thinking, I can change this. I just need to do something crazy to shake myself out of this depression." The next week I got a cherry blossom tattoo. It stands for feminine strength and beauty. Consequently, shortly after that on my mission to turn my life around, I found Oxygen mag and I have been eating clean and working out ever since. My tattoo is a constant reminder of where I was and where I want to be in life.

By Ashley Marie on Jul 21, 2010 - 10:25PM
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I myself am a Personal Trainer and I believe that tattoos are a work of art! It is only a small tottoo and it doesn't change the fact that she works hard for the body she has and she takes care of herself with clean eating and a healthy lifestyle. Her tattoo is not the center of attention and it doesn't hide the fact that she is healthy. :)

By Kristen on Jul 21, 2010 - 11:13PM
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I think tattoos are ugly. I have no intention of offending or slandering anyone who has them, but I think they definitely distract from natural beauty. In a way, they all look like bruises. At 1st glance, ones attention is immediately drawn to the splotch of ink on a person's body, not the definition of their figure, the sparkle in their eyes, etc. I think the sexiest men and women are those who take care of their natural selves. I personally have been turned off so many times to otherwise sexy men, simply because of tattoo(s). I don't do it on purpose. I just innately find them unattractive.

By Kristen on Jul 21, 2010 - 11:23PM
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I think tattoos are ugly. I have no intention of offending or slandering anyone who has them, but I think they definitely distract from natural beauty. At 1st glance, ones attention is immediately drawn to the ink ...not the natural sexiness of the person. I think the sexiest people are those who take care of themselves in such a way as to enhance their natural assets.

By response to Jessica on Jul 21, 2010 - 11:26PM
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To answer your question about the tattoo switching sides.... In creating magazine layouts, photos are often "flipped" in Photoshop or some other editing program. One of the pictures is a mirror image. ...& they would've gotten away with it without you noticing had she not had the tattoo!

By corrie Bignell on Jul 21, 2010 - 11:26PM
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Uuumm what year is it? Oh ya 2010. I don't currently have any tattoos but on July 30 of next week i will! Geez ladies, stop hating!!

By Sydney on Jul 22, 2010 - 3:59AM
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I love myself. I love my tattoos. I love my body. I could care less what any of you have to say :P If you don't like tattoos, DON'T GET ONE!

By Heidi on Jul 22, 2010 - 10:24AM
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I'm going to cancel my subscription to Oxygen! Really? I reported the photo of the woman showing off her butt-hole as offensive - and it is still up there. I guess Robert is in to butt-holes and kept it on. Tattoos are really ugly and I really don't want to have to look at them when I read a magazine, and I don't want to see someone's butt-hole when I go to a website.

By T. on Jul 22, 2010 - 10:29AM
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Wow.....I'm surprised by the level of BASHING here. 'trailer trash' 'majority of tatoos are by overweight - blue collars' 'at least it wasn't an arm-sleeve' Hmmmm My body --> my choice Their body --> their choice And, What does clean eating have to do with tatoos? I did smile and shake my head a lot on this one. Thanks, I guess, for that. T.

By Lori on Jul 22, 2010 - 10:44AM
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Beauty is definitely in the eye of the beholder on this topic. I think it certainly is a personal decision on whether you alter your body in any shape or form. Personally, I see very few quality looking ones and find them distracting, but some body piercing, hair styles and clothing is too. By getting one you are risking some health problems (I've seen them in hospitals) as well as getting stuck with something you later may dislike. To each their own.

By Lisa Odden on Jul 22, 2010 - 11:29AM
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We are lucky to live in a country where human beings are allowed to express themselves and be exactly who they are. Live and let live. Yes it's all a matter of opinion, but lets celebrate the amazing strengths and abilities of the American woman, which includes ALL women! Short, fat, thin, green, blue, purple, black, white, poor, rich...we ALL have the right to be heathy, strong and beautiful. Lets help eachother! Girl power!!! :)

By Susan on Jul 22, 2010 - 1:48PM
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Oh my gosh. How closed minded can a person me? Really, are you kidding me? Tattoos are nothing but an extension of one?s personality. I am a bearer of one tattoo on my right shoulder. It is personal and means several different things to me. It is also a time piece for me, I know exactly when and the reason why I got it when I did. Wear the tat with pride as I do!

By Sara on Jul 22, 2010 - 5:05PM
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Honestly I think this is stupid. Its a tattoo and its the 20th Centry! She looks great and you can tell that she has worked hard for it. Dont try to take that away from her as a model. Its a very small detail, and it's not a large tattoo.

By Kristen A. on Jul 22, 2010 - 5:19PM
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Tattoos are an expression of ones self and/or a representation of a moment that has impacted ones life. Take my tattoo for instance, it read's "Still I Stand" on my right foot. Why? Because after being hit by a car while crossing the street...I am still alive, after finding out I am infertile...I can still smile, and after finding out I have a rare genetic disorder?I still love myself. Oxygen, please keep showing models with tattoos. It shows me that you, as a magazine, are ok with women who are expressive and who have a story to share. And most of all, it shows me that you are ok with individuality, and that?s what I want to see in a magazine.

By Kristen A on Jul 22, 2010 - 5:21PM
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What I wrote above got cut off...thought I would try again: Tattoos are an expression of ones self and/or a representation of a moment that has impacted ones life. Take my tattoo for instance, it read's "Still I Stand" on my right foot. Why? Because after being hit by a car while crossing the street...I am still alive, after finding out I am infertile...I can still smile, and after finding out I have a rare genetic disorder?I still love myself. Oxygen, please keep showing models with tattoos. It shows me that you, as a magazine, are ok with women who are expressive and who have a story to share. And most of all, it shows me that you are ok with individuality, and that?s what I want to see in a magazine.

By Holly on Jul 22, 2010 - 5:26PM
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Having a tattoo is part of someone expressing themselves in an artist way. Same reason women get highlights and wear makeup. It is way to say ?Here I am? ? I am different.? I believe that if it something you believe in and are not ashamed of it why not tattoo it on your body. Be smart about it though. Do not go out and get something ridiculous. I think that the model should not be discriminated for having a tattoo. Look at how beautiful her body is and how hard she has worked to get it in that condition. I am sad that all you could say about her was ?OMG she has a tattoo.?

By Valer on Jul 22, 2010 - 6:09PM
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I am so glad to see so many women agree that this tattoo was no bid deal. The big deal is the other women who is so judgmental. A big part why i left my country (France) is because too much people like her, and I wasn't able to feel and be myself without being judged or else just because I need more than other to express myself trough creative things as tattoo... or else. Well, Lady, I will only tell you that if you want to be so judgmental, you should not purchase any kind of magazine to criticize people from your computer. It's really un-class, and kind of ignorant!!

By chris on Jul 22, 2010 - 7:28PM
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please..........!!! Dont worry about what the other person is doing! If you dont like tattoos, then dont get any. It is a personal decision and no one has the right to say otherwise......so bug off you haters. Btw i happen to have four and i work in the healthcare field running a patient service center. Looking to get my fifth soon.

By Rosemary on Jul 22, 2010 - 8:32PM
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My body, my choice, period. If you don't like tattoos don't get one; walk away; turn the page. And, Joanna, you know what they say about throwing stones...how well does your glass house hold up to instant karma? My Winnie the Pooh tat, taken from the cover of The Tao of Pooh by Benjamin Hoff (a must-read), is a testament to all tattoed beings - Like Pooh we don't judge. We just are.

By Marnie on Jul 22, 2010 - 11:35PM
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Howdy everyone!!! I don't understand what all the upset is about. We read and look at Oxygen's issues for the info and pictures, not for if the model had a tattoo or not. Listen, just my view but as long as it's tastful and isn't covering her whole body who cares. Everyone has a right to his or her's body. I have a tattoo as well and it has alot of meaning to me. We need to stop bashing everyone who's different then ourselves. Remember years ago all the hype about women bodybuilding, now look!!! This model should be giving a big yeehaaw for all her efforts and sweat to get to where she is, and what she has accomplished. Is a gold star for women everywhere!!! You go girls!!

By Lindsey on Jul 23, 2010 - 10:26AM
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Hahahah old ass ladies thinking tatoos are trailer trash. GET WITH IT, that is so 20 years ago. Welcome to modern life where people do what makes them happy, at least we never got perms and wore our pants up to our boobs... "So trashy"... Let people do what they want and get your ass off the computer you dont know how to use better than us anyways. Forreal

By Ana Est?vez on Jul 23, 2010 - 12:48PM
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I already commented on the 29th and just wanted to check how this discussion was going... I?m so amazed and shocked to see how much hate is in the comments. A lot of people are saying that a tattoo "distracts from natural beauty" or that "should be covered like actresses when play roles" hey, here they're not playing roles, they're themselves!!! People who say that it is not true beauty, then they shouldn't wear makeup and let the hair grow like crazy, to stay true about what they're saying. I don?t have tattoos and couldn't care less if Oxygen publishes one now and then, it still is the fun, healty and informative magazine that it was meant to be from the beginning. There's enough intolerance in the world to judge someone just because of a tattoo.

By Julie on Jul 23, 2010 - 5:43PM
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I don't mind tattoos at all. On several different occassions I have thought about getting one. However as we age I find tattoos on older women trashy. I saw one the other day and she was in her late 50s and ewww! It was on her shoulder.

By Lise Fuller on Jul 23, 2010 - 8:39PM
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I personally don't care for tattoos. And I believe they look horrible while in a formal. However, I do feel having one or not has nothing to do with whether you are fit! I know it's a big thing these days. I really think when those thay have them get older they'll regret them unless the tat is there for a very true and real reason, documenting something in their lives. But I see the body as beautiful -- much more so -- without them. Thanks for asking.

By Cat M. on Jul 24, 2010 - 11:49AM
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I personally do not like tatoos on me, however I do like how they look on other fit people. People that don't like tatoos -close minded, rude, jealous, ignorant... probably.

By Barb on Jul 24, 2010 - 1:34PM
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Even as someone who has a tattoo, I can understand how one might see them as distracting in certain situations, even this one. However, I find that Michelle's comment is completely inappropriate and disrespectful towards not just the magazine in attacking its "low standards" but also, and more importantly, towards a beautiful woman who has clearly accomplished a lot and worked very hard to get to where she is. To say that anything about Lina is ugly, or going against what Oxygen promotes and stands for suggests that Michelle is the one who needs to raise standards, on herself.

By mardie on Jul 25, 2010 - 9:41AM
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in our country we do have the freedom of choice, to express ourselves etc., there are other reasons for tattoos that most seem to forget about, they can signify place of authority, recogniton in some tribes and religious tattooing, some of this is a high honor, some cultures practice this even in our country, and of course the art and beauty of it, now there are some that are not so pretty, but each to their own, i will not judge, because i don't know where they are coming from and where they are going in life.

By liz on Jul 25, 2010 - 9:58AM
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I think the outrage over a tattoo is silly. It's not even offensive in any way and I think everyone can tell that she is a beautiful woman with or without it. I am 23 and have 2 tattoos. I love them and wouldn't dare regret them. Just because you wouldn't put one on your body doesn't mean I'd file a complaint against you.

By Gina Hickok on Jul 25, 2010 - 10:26AM
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My tattoos symbolize certain things to me. My favorite is this one. To me it symbolizes what we woman can do. We can do anything we want to do. There is no stopping us. Stop judging people by the way they look and wether or not they have tattoos. I think tattoos are beautiful.

By Ronda on Jul 25, 2010 - 11:43AM
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Regardless if there is a tattoo or not this is one magazine that should not be air brushing out anything people have tattoos it is a reality and so called trailer trash are not the only people with them it just shows her narrow minded thinking. What a flaw she has and that one will be harder to over come keep showing the women just as they are REAL people. Thank you

By Connie on Jul 25, 2010 - 3:26PM
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I found that tattooing can not only be a fun social rite of passage, it's also a very personal choice to adorn oneself, note something significant or a milestone, or even tell a story. With fitness, we sculpt our bodies; with tattoos we choose to paint them. Either way, we're expressing what we believe is beautiful and meaningful.

By Karen on Jul 25, 2010 - 7:56PM
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I am a 40 year old successful, educated, professional and mother of three. I also have a beautiful little tattoo. I live the Oxygen lifestyle and am very proud of that. I waited until I was 35 to get it to be sure I still wanted it when I was 65! Tattoos are a creative and beautiful expression of yourself. Do not judge people who are confident enough to express themselves with a tattoo. We are the ones who have to live with our life choice and we are not hurting anyone. In a world full of challenges, find something else to gripe about and put your energy into something positive, starting with yourself.

By Anne on Jul 25, 2010 - 9:31PM
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I thought her tattoo was fine. It's the tramp stamps and the real big tattoos that don't look good. She obviously promotes clean eating and exercise by looking at her - she obviously has a six pack! It's not gaudy looking because it's just a shamrock. It may have deep meaning for her too.

By Angie on Jul 25, 2010 - 11:38PM
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I lost 35 lbs and this and this was my reward to myself for all the hard work after getting into shape.

By Lindsay on Jul 26, 2010 - 11:20AM
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this is a pic of my first tat, they are chinese symbols for "faith" and "hope"-- my then boyfriend and now fiance got these together a few years ago. They are a reminder that my faith and hope got me through a really bad depression. Without that I wouldn't have been able to make it. My fiance stood by my side the whole time and still is, he got a matching tat. I know everyone says, "never get matching tats... what if you dont stay together? you will regret it." I will never regret this because it was a part of my life. It was a very very hard part of my life but I made it through with God, my family and my fiance supporting me! I<3 him =) My second tat I already posted was the dove...

By Gretchen on Jul 26, 2010 - 11:29AM
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I am a healthy individual, am not trailer trash, and happen to have two tattoos. I believe tattoos have nothing to do with whether you are healthy or not, but is an expression of art. My first tattoo represents my success of completing a marathon. My other expresses my love for music. Some people scrapbook, some write poems, and others get tattoos. They certainly do not detract from a healthy physique, at times they add to it.

By crystal on Jul 26, 2010 - 4:09PM
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tattoos are a very personal choice. some may be ugly some are not, but each tat a person has either represents or means something personal to them. I have one tattoo, which i came up with myself, and i'm very proud of it and pleased with it. I have THREE college degrees and am a nurse....not the typical "trail trash" that i saw posted by another reader. The shamrock tat was not ugly and did not take anything away from the model or from a healthy lifestyle. A tattoo truly is a personal thing, like getting your ears pierced or your hair colored, granted a tat is permanent (so make a wise choice and no rash decisions) but i wouldn't not use a particular model because of a tat unless it somehow was degrading or mocked my country. And the argument i also saw, about how our bodies are gifts from god and need no ink, well i'm a firm believer in Jesus Christ and i'm proud of that struggle so if my cross tat and angle wings don't glorify that fact i don't know what does because i wouldn't "ink" my body for just anybody or anything.

By Pita on Jul 26, 2010 - 4:33PM
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I thought that in this world we live in now, we would be grown ups about the things we comment when it comes to someone else's lifestyle choice. I really think it is horrible that some people still are openly stereotypical and discriminative. The magazine's purpose is to praise the women that live the healthy and fit lifestyle regardless of where they come from and what they do. Like so many have pointed out before me, Tattoos are not the point, it is the fitness and lifestyle choices to be healthy. What happened to "don't say anything if you can't say something nice". Keep your opinions to yourselves when they have nothing to do with the subject. GROW UP PEOPLE!!

By nancy on Jul 26, 2010 - 5:36PM
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I cannot believe all the negativity towards tattoos. How about the ticking time bombs of silicone in most of the models chests? If one of those breaks, the poor girl is going to be in a world of hurt.

By Stella Leone on Jul 26, 2010 - 5:47PM
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People need to stop being so religious and judgemental. I don't care for tattoos myself and the Lord delivered me of many stupidities, why should i go and judge someone else? If all you can see is someone's skin, then u need help. Either that, or stop being jealous of how other people are being used. But if you got offended, then ask the magazine to cover them up for you, so next time u don't get offended again.

By sheera on Jul 28, 2010 - 11:34AM
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Leviticus 19:28 "Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tatoo marks on yourself. I am the Lord.

By Tricia Marifiote on Jul 28, 2010 - 2:32PM
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I was truely greatful to see a woman with a tattoo being used as a model! I have a tattoo from my youth and don't regret getting it. It's a part of my past and is just one of those steps in life that led me to be who I am today! Tattoos are just another form of art and are beautiful! Having a tattoo doesn't mean that your not healthy or beautiful....if you don't like it-don't look at it!

By Zenia on Jul 28, 2010 - 8:30PM
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Are you kidding me? One thing is to have opinions about tattoos and and the other is to insult someone. I read somewhere: The Tattoo is the mark of the Soul It can act as a window Through which we see inside or it can be the shield to protect us from those who cannot see past the surface. Tattoos Rock.

By Appy on Jul 29, 2010 - 12:26AM
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I personally don't understand why a tattoo is such a big deal! Shes beautiful and has done a lot of hard work on her body and health! I hate the comment that was made about trailer trash and over weight.. I am 5'6 and 110lbs.. I have three tattoos .. My fiancees' name, a memorial to my brother and grandfather on my ankle and an image of my mothers nickname for me... and more to come! I hold a degree and am working on a masters degree.. I am trying to begin working out again because fast tracking through a B.S. degree is very time consuming. Please open your mind as much as you open your mouth!

By Alyssa on Jul 29, 2010 - 10:49AM
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A tattoo is a personal choice. When we base our opinions of others on how they look, we are getting into some very dangerous territory. In some cultures, tatoos are powerful symbols. To say that a person with a tattoo is "unclean" or "trashy" is, at best, ignorant. BTW, I am a 41 year-old mother of two with a Masters degree, and am considering tattooing my children's names on my body. I guess that makes me trashy.

By Zandra on Jul 29, 2010 - 9:38PM
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I'm a Personal Trainer and a former model and I'm covered in tattoos; nice tattoos like butterflies, unicorns, flowers and so on. I've always loved art. I am super fit, eat healthy, never smoked, never done any drugs and I never drink alcohol. I'm 30 years old and been inked since I was 13. I am highly educated with a College education, lots of degrees after College and I speak 3 languages; Swedish is my first, English is my second and Spanish is my third. I am as far from being trashy, unclean and uneducated as one can be. These ideas has gotta stop, it's 2010.

By Jo on Jul 31, 2010 - 10:45AM
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Wow!!! What differences in opinons here!! I myself am a stay at home mother of 3 beautiful children, my husband serves in the U.S. Navy, which makes me an extremely proud wife!! This talk about tatoos has turned into something so ridiculous, including religious banter and stereotypical ignorance! How did this go from some people just aren't for tatoos...to doing what God says we should do?!? I love Jesus Christ, volunteer on Sundays at my church, attend a weekly womens bible study group, and I have complete respect in The Word! Oh!... and i also have 10 tatoos, most are fairly discreet, except my half-sleeve!! That doesnt give anybody the right to judge me, except God!! I know for a fact my Lord loves me UNconditionally! I take pride in the fact that I am a healthy, fit, and very devout Christian woman! Btw>>> I do not live in a trailer and i certainly am not trash, even if i did live in one...i would feel blessed to have that roof over my head!!!! :)-

By Whitney on Aug 1, 2010 - 11:24PM
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I do not and will not have a tattoo, but I think it is a personal expression of one's own personality. I think Michelle still looks amazing tattoo or not. She is obviously not a dirty or unhealthy person. She looks great no matter what. I think that the stretch marks from my two babies are far more offensive than some tattoo's that I have seen. My babies are not mistakes or accidental and neither are the choices people make about the tattoo's that that have put on their bodies.

By Kelsey on Aug 2, 2010 - 2:43PM
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I loved her Tattoo, I have a Shamrock on my side and to me my tattoo shows my pride in being Irish. I think Lina has worked very hard training her body to that extend and for someone to try and break it down by saying her tattoo is "trashy" was wrong. Keep up the good work and loved seeing everyones ink of choice.

By Debbie on Aug 2, 2010 - 5:31PM
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I don't know where to begin, at one time women couldn't have muscles ... now it's tattoo's are you kidding me? Why is it that stretch marks are ugly and ruin the beauty of a woman's body but yet are accepted because it's what, natural? I have tattoo's and would like one more (the names of my 3 children) I'm 41 and my husband thinks it's outrageous that I would get another one now.... however he didn't think it was so outrageous for me to bare children and scar my body for him! BTW, someone commented on "how they will look when we are old and wrinked" I've got a news flash.. when I'm old and wrinkled and my boobs are at my belly & my teeth are in a jar in the bathroom. do you really think I give a sh*t what my tattoo's look like at that point!

By Stacey M. on Aug 2, 2010 - 8:03PM
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I have been an avid oxygen reader for four and a half years now. I started right after having my second son and being 50 lbs. overweight. I eat clean and exercise daily and am now down to 135 lbs. that I was before having my first son. And yes I have tattoos, four to be exact that I've gotten in the past two years. They have special meaning to me and that's all that counts. I have a tat with my husbands name and our wedding date on my calf, a celtic cross for my Irish roots on the back of my neck that I got along with my mom and my brother, 2 dragonfly tats on my left shoulder with my boy's names and a phrase my grandfather always said: "God only gives you what he knows you can handle" tattooed on my right shoulder with the date of his death. They remind me of who I've become today and why I work as hard as I do everyday for the ones I love. They give me the self-cofidence to keep pushing my self when i feel dragged down in this world. If someone doesn't like it thats their problem. They remind me and make me stronger everyday.

By Lisa on Aug 3, 2010 - 1:49AM
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Beautiful is what I see! When I look at this photo I see a strong healthy woman and the fact that she chose to get a tattoo has nothing to do with her commitment to fitness and everything to do with her being her own person. Beauty and fitness comes in many forms and it truely is in the eye of the beholder!

By Tonya, via email on Aug 3, 2010 - 2:23PM
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Wow! Where do I start? I am writing this today because of the comments about tattoos in this month?s subscription. I cannot believe that anybody would use their own personal perception in determining what is ugly or what is attractive when it comes to the beauty and effort of a weightlifter sporting a tattoo. Asking that Oxygen should raise their standards? Because somebody chooses to tattoo themselves does not take away from their level of fitness, beauty or health. Beauty comes from within, not an individual?s perception of what a tattoo has done. To each their own and I know Oxygen will continue the great work with blowing us away with their finest of choice athletes. They are ALL beautiful!

By LISA, VIA EMAIL on Aug 3, 2010 - 2:24PM
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Unlike your reader, I do not find tattoos unhealthy nor ugly. Although I do not have any myself, I have found that those who do, wear them proudly. Some are symbols of life lessons. Some are remembrances of milestones in ones life. To assume that you have low standards because you published someone with a tattoo is ludicrous and in my opinion a bit close-minded. We are a diverse people. The sooner we accept each others? differences (whether we like them or not) the better off we will all be.

By YAKINI, VIA EMAIL on Aug 3, 2010 - 2:25PM
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I would like to comment on Michelle?s comment in the June 2010 issue that tattoos are ugly and Oxygen should set their standards higher. First of all I would like to say that has nothing to do with standards and one should not judge a person because they have tattoos, it could be for something meaningful in their life, better yet it could be a teenage regret. A person with tattoos who are fit deserves to be seen or heard like anybody else. I would like to thank Oxygen for giving all people a chance to shine tattoo or not, after all the focus here is physical fitness.

By AMBER, VIA EMAIL on Aug 3, 2010 - 2:26PM
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I am a loyal Oxygen reader and am always thrilled to see the diversity of the women you feature. Which is why I was so appalled to read the letter from Michelle in the June 2010 mailbox. Showing women with tattoos means you have low standards? Try again. Tattooing is an ancient art form embraced by many cultures. Women who have tattoos often have a deep and heartfelt meaning and attachment to the images they choose to permanently place on their bodies. While they may not be Michelle?s personal choice, it is demeaning to the women (about 15% of American women according to some studies) who do make that decision to call them ugly and state that they lower Oxygen?s standards.

By CRYSTLE, VIA EMAIL on Aug 3, 2010 - 2:27PM
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Just want to say I love your magazine! I was however appalled by the comment ?tattoos are ugly and take away from the beauty and hard work of the model.? As with most people with tattoos, each has a special meaning and story behind them. They are wearable works of art and sometimes a memorial to someone who has passed away. Beauty is different to each person. As an artist I value diversity and carry my life experiences with me, learning from them and growing.

By VANESSA, VIA EMAIL on Aug 3, 2010 - 2:27PM
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You all at Oxygen are amazing! Thanks for all the great stuff you put together. Now, about that email hating on tattooed models . . . I was very disappointed by this judgmental and narrow-minded opinion. Somehow I?d expected less intolerance from readers of a magazine that?s all about promoting other women to love themselves, eat clean and sport gorgeous bodies. I?d like to ask these readers what tattoos (or the lack thereof) have to do with these principles?? To shun someone?s choice or artistic body ornamentation is completely medieval.

By MISS B, VIA EMAILS on Aug 3, 2010 - 2:28PM
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So where does Michelle get off with calling tattoos ugly? Doesn?t she realize that they?re just as much self-expression as the type of outfit a person chooses? After all, it?s thinking like hers that kept the non-bodybuilder women like me out of gyms for so long. The old, ?women who lift will look like men? and ?women who lift will look ugly? is in the same vein. So, one person?s opinion should not determine what a magazine decides to publish. Michelle may need to do some soul searching to realize she sounds very judgmental and snobbish. By the way ? I love my tattoos!

By KAREN, VIA EMAIL on Aug 3, 2010 - 2:29PM
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Hi, I just opened my June edition of Oxygen and as always was happy to see it arrive. I was skimming through and saw the Mailbox segment about tattoos. I was annoyed by the writer Michelle?s comment about Lina?s tattoo. I am amazed at this time in history that people are still judging others for the art that they have on their bodies. Lina is a beautiful, strong, well-defined woman who chooses to have a tattoo. Instead of looking at the effort that it took to gain that physique, the writer chooses to focus on a personal choice of the model. Would she also comment if she had a scar? Tattoos on women generally have some meaning to the person who has one. Watch shows of LA Ink to understand. I have 3 of my own and they all have a spiritual and emotional meaning. One is in honor of my parents who died and having that tattoo keeps them close to me both in body and spirit. The author Michele needs to look at her judging a beautiful model whose body is body is awesome and see the person. Just like she would want someone to see her with her differences. We will never have peace in the world if we can?t look at beauty and strength without trying to find flaws.

By JENNIFER, VIA EMAIL on Aug 3, 2010 - 2:30PM
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I just had to write in and comment on the response from Michelle on tattoos. I have to disagree with her comment and praise the beautiful women you present in your magazine. They have obviously worked their assess off to look the way they do and I feel that if they want to reward it with a tattoo, have at it. They deserve it! I myself have a tattoo and for one minute do not think that they are UGLY or promote unhealthy living. They are art and displaying them on a hard earned body gets my OK! You have not lowered your standards. Tattoos are a thing of today. Keep putting these beautiful women in your magazine and keep up the great work.

By ROBIN, VIA EMAIL on Aug 3, 2010 - 2:32PM
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I am an avid reader of Oxygen, a great magazine with diligent focus on fitness, not a mag full of ads. Saying this, I DO NOT agree that tattoos take away from the beauty of ANY woman. IF the tattoo is done properly, it can even enhance a woman?s physique. I was so upset to see the letter in the June 2010 issue, regarding tattoos. The model is still beautiful despite her single little tattoo and you did NOT lower your standards, if anything you hit more variety of people, saying ?it?s ok to have ?flaws? or tattoos, these models are real people, you can still be beautiful.? ALOT of professional fitness and figure models/competitors have tattoos. I DO NOT think you lowered your standards at all and I was very happy to see the tattoo wasn?t airbrushed out. I had to write in, because I understand that people all have their ideas on tattoos, but I don?t wanna feel like myself or any other woman isn?t pretty because we decide to put ink on our bodies at any stage of our lives . . . some of us didn?t grow up wanting to be figure competitors . . . some of us went through crazy teen years . . . whatever the case, if you work hard and have an amazing healthy body, what else matters!

By MARIETTA, VIA EMAIL on Aug 3, 2010 - 2:33PM
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I just had to respond to the comments by Michelle regarding tattoos in the June 2010 issue. Michelle, GET OVER IT!! Tattoos are everywhere so you may as well get used to them. You have made a personal decision not to get any and that is perfectly fine, but those that choose to get them do so for their own personal reasons. No different from picking out an outfit or a hairstyle. Some people may like it and some may not. Would you change either because someone else didn?t like it? Someone who you don?t even know? And even if you did know them, would you change something about yourself that you really like? I seriously doubt it. The only thing that could cause them to detract from a person?s beauty is a closed mind along with a complete lack of understanding.

By ANGIE, VIA EMAIL on Aug 3, 2010 - 2:36PM
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had to write you as I am sure MANY will. I don?t quite know what to say in response to Michelle?s email on tattoos in your June addition. Except . . . REALLY? Quite honestly, her comment is what?s truly ugly. Women on a fitness mission (model or not), with or without a tattoo, is what?s truly beautiful. Shame on Michelle. I have four tattoos, two being of Christian content. Does this make me ugly too? And where does she get her information tattoos are unhealthy? (Maybe Oxygen should do an article on that). I will be 36 in two weeks and am in better shape now, thanks to my trainer/husband and my Oxygen magazine. My tattoos don't slow me down!! I actually had an entirely different response the first time I saw a tattoo in Oxygen. I thought, ?Good for them for showing someone with a tattoo and not airbrushing it out.?

By CAMI, VIA EMAIL on Aug 3, 2010 - 2:37PM
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Heidi Klum, supermodel and mother of four has a tattoo on her forearm. She is considered beautiful and has been featured in Vogue and dozens of magazines with impeccable standards. Lee Priest is a Mr. Olympia top-ten placing bodybuilder with many tattoos including Superman and a tribal piece on his face. These successful professionals? careers have not suffered because of their tattoos. Michelle, your comment published in June?s letters to the editor is infuriating. You decided to share your thought that ?tattoos detract from the beauty and effort of a weightlifter and are just plain ugly. Please keep your standards higher.? Let?s get something straight. Your comment went beyond expressing your entitled view of beauty to berating a fellow woman and athlete by indicating that she was now subpar to your standards because of a tattoo. Your interpretation of beauty is not the standard that Oxygen should follow. You prefaced your ugly comment by stating that Oxygen promotes clean eating, healthy lifestyles and the best for your body. I like to think that Oxygen magazine fosters knowledge, self-awareness, recipes, tips and training techniques, and provides a community of female athletes. That does not mean that this magazine is for self-righteous purists who say nothing when they see their favorite bodybuilders with breast augmentations or fake nails or dyed hair. I do not prance around the weight room in designer clothes doing flat bench presses with pink dumbbells. They don?t make 50 lb dumbbells pink. Oxygen gets it. This magazine is inspirational and accepting. As a strong woman, I receive just as many looks of admiration as looks of disgust. Whether I am feeling strong and lovely or like a beastly hulk (my colleagues jokingly refer to me as Lou Ferrigno), Oxygen provides articles and pictures of women that understand the female weightlifter. Monica Brant, Jamie Eason, Fran Dennis and Tosca Reno are personal heroes as they have overcome obstacles in their life to become the amazing women they are today. Their strength is evident in their accomplishments and confidence. The fact that they do not live a purist lifestyle to the extreme extent that you, Michelle, are calling for does not detract from their beauty. Oxygen should be celebrated for decorating its pages with these women, not accused of having low standards.

By ALYSSA, VIA EMAIL on Aug 3, 2010 - 2:38PM
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In this month?s issue Michelle comments about how disappointed she was that Oxygen?s ?standards? have gone down because you featured a tattooed model. Last time I checked this wasn?t 1952 and tattoos are more accepted, and by no means are people that have them dirty or ugly! We are all entitled to our opinion, but that was just downright hurtful and ignorant. Personally I like seeing tattooed girls in fitness, whatever they want to add to their body a.k.a. a work of art is up to them and beautiful!!

By SAMANTHA, VIA EMAIL on Aug 3, 2010 - 2:39PM
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I am a subscriber to Oxygen mag and am thankful for how it (along with Tosca Reno?s book) has helped transform my body and workout routines. I agree, Oxygen does promote healthy lifestyles, clean eating and proper workout technique ? but in NO way does a tattoo deter from that. Have we as a society not moved past the whole, ?tattoos are taboo?? The na?ve and judgmental comment proves that we are still struggling to move past the preconceived notions of tattooed individuals and to appreciate the beauty of a good tattoo. I am a fitness competitor, with a very low percentage of body fat year round, and I still get compliments on my definition REGARDLESS of my full back piece. Oxygen?s standards have not in any way, been compromised by featuring a model with a tattoo (a tiny one at that!) and in fact, women with ink, like myself, appreciate it because it proves that YES you can be in top shape, and still sport (permanent) personal flair. So I say: if you have a personal issue with a way a model looks ? keep the comment to yourself ? you aren't being forced to look; there are more important issues to fill these fitness pages.

By JESSICA, VIA EMAIL on Aug 3, 2010 - 2:39PM
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In response to a reader?s comments in this month?s issue regarding tattoos and how they ?detract from the beauty and effort of a weightlifter.? I am a competitor and model and in no way have my tattoos ever been described as ugly. In this day those judgmental attitudes are unacceptable and in fact ugly. A woman?s hard work and dedication will not be overworked because of a tattoo or two and I am proud that my favorite magazine publishes hard work and not bad attitudes. Thanks for being true to our sport and our passion for supporting women of all shapes, sizes, colors and even artistic expression.

By BRENDA, VIA EMAIL on Aug 3, 2010 - 2:40PM
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So I?m sitting here reading my latest copy of Oxygen which just came in the mail and I see this letter from ?Michelle? telling you to keep your standards higher and not use models with tattoos because tattoos are ugly! And I suddenly find myself so fired up that I am writing to you. First of all I have 3 tattoos each of which have an important meaning to me which I got at different points in my life. I was recently featured in the May/June issue of clean eating as the success story, I used to weigh 314 lb and am now under 200! One of them for example is a band on my wrist, the underside says ?believe? in Tibetan, I got it when I successfully lost my first 20 lb ? the healthy way! I have worked extremely hard over the past 3 years to get where I am, I eat clean, I work out regularly doing cardio and weight training, I inspire others to make changes and lead healthy lifestyles . . . and although I still have some fat to get rid of it would seem to me that ?Michelle? is basically saying all of my effort and hard work is a waste because I have tattoos! Some people choose to put artwork on our walls, I prefer to bring it with me. My next goal, to appear as an oxygen magazine success story and prove to people like Michelle that muscles with tattoos are just as beautiful and hard earned than those without! In fact when I have arms like those of some of your models I may just get an upper arm sleeve tattoo to help show them off! I guess I really need to thank Michelle, because now I am even more determined to complete my transformation and show off my beautiful, healthy body . . . and all of my current and future tattoos! I think your standards are just fine and you publication is great! Perhaps Michelle needs to learn to be a little less close-minded.

By MICHELLE, VIA EMAIL on Aug 3, 2010 - 2:42PM
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This is regarding the comments on the tattoos in your April 2010 issue. I?m sorry, but give me a break. To use the word ?disappointed? is ridiculous. It doesn?t take anything away from her effort and beauty. I think this woman must think that those who have tattoos must drink and smoke too. She has a tattoo, big deal. I can only hope that I will look like her. And to say the magazine needs to keep their standards higher is absurd as well. There are a lot of people in this world and I hope you can represent all of them!!! Maybe next issue you can have someone with their nose pierced :) I love your magazine.

By AUDREY, VIA EMAIL on Aug 3, 2010 - 2:42PM
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I have tattoos. I am also fit. Tattoos are personal and they are a story. I find them sexy and they look even better on a sexy fit body! I am glad you kept the tattoo instead of airbrushing it out. These models are real woman and to think that Oxygen has to be held to a higher standard by not placing woman in their magazine that has them is simple absurd. Some people will always remain a square. To each is own.

By KERRY, VIA EMAIL on Aug 3, 2010 - 2:44PM
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I happen to think that Tattoos are beautiful if done correctly and are tasteful. Lina's tattoo beautiful and simple. All I have to say is if people think that Tattoos are distracting then don't look at them and concentrate on yourself and your workout and don't worry about what others are doing!

By MICHELLE, VIA EMAIL on Aug 3, 2010 - 2:44PM
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I have never written to a magazine before, but i literally jumped up and logged on the computer to write this after i read that dumb ass comment. People are beautiful with and without tattoos. To each his /her own. I happen to LOVE them and think they enhance a beautiful figure. With your kind of thinking why don't they make sure they don't feature any "bottled blonds" or highlighted hair as this would detract from a nice physique and not up to standards... sounds dumb don't it? so was your comment! -Another Michelle who loves tattoos!

By AMANDA, VIA EMAIL on Aug 3, 2010 - 2:46PM
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I also love Oxygen and have been a fan for a long time. While reading the section ?Tattoos are Ugly?? in the June 2010 issue, I have to admit that I was quite offended by a comment another reader had sent via email. Everyone is entitled to their own opinion and has the right to express it freely, but to say that Oxygen lowered its standards by featuring a model with a tattoo is ridiculous. Tattoos are a personal choice and have no reflection on eating habits, hard work, or choosing a healthy lifestyle. Having a tattoo should not mean that someone's hard work is any less appreciated or that a magazine has lowered its standards by showing a model with a tattoo

By Brenna on Aug 3, 2010 - 3:39PM
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It is discouraging to see so many responses denigrating a woman's decision to enhance her body with a tattoo. According to the rationale that we are to only love the body God gave us, all else remaining equal, then we shouldn't be pushing ourselves to achieve our maximum fitness potential. Clearly, this position is absurd! I rewarded myself with my first tattoo after I achieved my First Degree Black Belt in Tae Kwon Do. My second and third came after I was accepted into Graduate School. And I plan to reward myself a fourth tattoo after I shed the 40 pounds of my BA degree I am still carrying around. As per this discussion, I think the atomic symbol for Oxygen will be my next design!

By Danielle on Aug 3, 2010 - 4:05PM
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I thought this model's tattoo gave her a unique appearance. It is like "Oh she has a tattoo that is pretty cool" and I moved on with my day. The whole point of any of these article is to promote clean living, healthy eating, and maintaining fitness. It is extremely outdated thinking to still believe that getting a tattoo makes you unhealthy and dirty. And also the last time I checked women of all sizes get tattoos, not just the quote "overweight and unhealthy" ones. Have we become so crictical of ourselves that we cannot even allow a woman who clearly lives the clean and fit lifestyle to express herself without being deemed as "unhealthy"? I mean how could anyone think that a shamrock is something so disgusting?! Give me a break and go workout!

By Liz on Aug 4, 2010 - 3:34PM
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Hmmm....Fairly certain that anyone who suggests tattoos are not conducive to "clean" living is purely ignornant. I am a dedicated soccer Mom, with 3 beautiful children who are already more open minded and bright than many on the simple minds posting opinions on this board. I was encouraged by my oldest daughter to post a picture (that she took for me today) because she was out raged by the sterotyping some people were doing here...at 10 years old she knows more about how useless it is to be prejudice, and how important it is to keep an open mind than some of you. We eat clean in our home (huge fan of Tosca) and live green. I own an organic cotton baby and toddler clothing company, and use only eco-friendly products in our home. All of these attributes are only a few that say what type of person I am. I am a huge fan of Oxygen, and thrive under many lifestyle choices it promotes...and... I LOVE my tattoo :)

By Leah on Aug 5, 2010 - 2:31PM
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Tatoos are a personal choice. If you don't like them, don't get one. The models in Oxygen are the very essence of clean eating and healthful living. We should not judge them for a tatoo but rather appreciate them for their hard work, consistancy and for what they promote. Oxygen is the best health and fitness magazine I have ever read and commenting on a tatoo is just so silly and insignificant.

By Janet on Aug 6, 2010 - 3:52PM
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Until you've exercised self control and discipline that these ladies do on a daily basis in order to achieve the look and lifestyle they have, don't speak. A tattoo does not mean a person is unhealthy or eats poorly. How ignorant can a person be to even put the two in the same category? I have trained and competed in four figure shows. I ate clean every day, worked out twice a day every day, set a good example for my son on a healthy lifestyle by achieving my goals solely on diet and exercise. And my tattoo never hindered me in any way. I'm not white trash. I'm a hardworking single mom. The tattoo I have is my son's name (Xavier). I waited a long time to get my tattoo and my son loves it. Doesn't mean he wants one, it just means he accepts my individual choice. the meaning is very dear to me as well. The purple flower represents engulfed in love and the vine is my son's name. Meaning he will always be a part of my strength. Even when I'm 90. A happy world will be one that doesn't judge someone else for being different!!

By Jessica on Aug 7, 2010 - 9:37PM
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First of all, I would just like to say that Lina, your body rocks! Keep up the great work! All of you Oxygen ladies inspire me every day to work and train hard. I hope to have abs like you one day! Your lil shamrock just ads to your beauty. I myself have a tattoo in the same spot, and I love it! Its just one of about 13 that I have! So, I don't think it should matter if you have tattoos, it's about the dedication we have to keeping our bodies fit! Keep it up hun, you look great!

By Roxana on Aug 7, 2010 - 11:27PM
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When I read the original comment, I thought it might be an issue. I am overwhelmed by the amount of people that made comments. I personally do not have a tattoo, and plan to get one when I reach my weight goal. I am going really slow (about 5 pounds a month), so it might take me a year. I'm looking forward to designing the perfect butterfly to ink myself with (and I am not trailer trash). I do however find it interesting that one lady made a comment about the Bible. I loved that she was so secure as to not mind if anyone commented on her remarks. I agree with her that every person is entitled to an opinion. Mine is simple - even the comments in the Bible are open to interpretation. That same chapter in Leviticus talks about not eating meat, pay no attention to your dreams, don't cut your hair or shave your beard. Interesting because if you go to Genesis (also in the Old Testament) the first thing that God tells his children Adam and Eve is that he gives us the animals for us to feed and clothe ourselves and dispose of them as we see fit. The point is, your church interprets the books of the Bible depending on their mores and it is up to us to read the Bible (or whatever book you have in your Church) and take the lessons as we understand them. That, coupled with the fact that for Christians, the New Testament was meant to be the new book that replaced the more restrictive teachings of the Old Testament, makes for some interesting contradictions. Like I said, I don't have a tattoo. I also don't believe in judging others, even the person who made the initial comment. I commend those that shared their views without attacking anyone else. And I hope that some day, women can unite and be sisters to one another instead of tearing each other apart.

By Tiffany on Aug 8, 2010 - 10:34AM
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how sas it is to discriminate on a person for tattoos.... this is 2010 ladies! To judge her and call her trash, you dont even know her. Sounds to me like your life must be really boring to have to judge someone else and go out of your way to bash her! She has an amazing body, probably better than yours! Another thing, tattoos are for appeal, just like hair color, make-up, clothes, implants whatever, mind your own business and wake up stop DISCRIMINATING!2010 ... Do you still judge people on race to?

By Jillian on Aug 8, 2010 - 3:37PM
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Joanna, I do not appreciate you stating that women who have tattoos are "trailer trash". I have a tattoo, yet am healthy, beautiful, and smart. I hold THREE advanced degreess--yes THREE-- and am working on a FOURTH and LOVE the body that God has given me. Sorry that you are so discriminatory that you believe that I must be trailer trash. Perhaps you should consider your words more carefully, especially for someone who obviously has no problem throwing God's name around.

By Heavy Metal Poet on Aug 8, 2010 - 10:05PM
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I love the stories behind the tattoos. I wrote a poem and I received a call for permission to have it tattooed. I subscribe to Oxygen because I find the female body so awesome and the pictures and articles motivate me more than pictures of men. Facebook Page: Kirk Olson - Poet

By diane on Aug 9, 2010 - 12:33AM
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I think tattoo's are a beautiful way to show ones' personality,ideas and beliefs. They can enhance a persons' appearance. They are no different than any jewelry. I subscribe to Oxygen magazine to see and learn how your wonderful athletes transform their bodies. I can only hope to aspire to be as committed as your models.

By Sara on Aug 9, 2010 - 4:10PM
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Lina Jade is in better shape than most that read this magazine! And a shamrock tattoo does not discard that truth. The only people it bothers are those who don't like tattoo's to begin with. And to those saying that tattoo's are only for fat, blue collar women, need to open their eye's (and brains) to the fact that she isn't the only body builder with a tattoo. Get over it.

By Crissie on Aug 9, 2010 - 11:58PM
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I don't have a tatto and don't really care for them, but that's a personal thing. I could care less if someone else has a tatoo. In fact, there are some that are quite tasteful or just downright cool! I read this magazine to help me get a body like the ones shown in it, not to check out their tattooes! Whatever! Maybe if I HAD a body like the women in the mag, I just might feel confident enought to get a tatoo! Lol! If you don't like it, don't look at it. Or, don't even waste your money (and our time) if it's going to offend you! (I also suggest you don't make any of these girls mad! They have a lot of muscles, ya know...and they just might kick your booty! Jk!)

By Demonica on Aug 10, 2010 - 12:06AM
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Ok ladies, this response coming from a very fit Master's level Chemist. Let's all stop piercing our ears or coloring our hair. If body decor is so offensive to you, then stop wearing make up. Really, if you choose to adorn your beautiful body with a tattoo, whos's to say it's ugly. Please. And yes, I have a tattoo. Hardly fat or blue collar.

By Sera on Aug 10, 2010 - 11:19AM
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I would just like to add to this thread about tattoos being not natural, and why would Oxygen display this? How many women in Oxygens magazine do you think have has breast augmentations? Whats the difference to you between that and tattoo's, they both are alterations to your body and whats more acceptable? I also agree with Demonica's post as well.

By figurebeauty on Aug 10, 2010 - 11:29AM
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NASTY! Yes everyone has a right to their own opinion and to get tattoo's. And just the same, people have the right to NOT like tattoos. Just as someone said above.....they detract from not enhance IMO. These pictures you 'ladies' are posting of your tattoos that you think defend your stance....ha ha lol...only confirm that tattoos are nasty. Fat pimply backs, arms and other body parts riddled with tattoos just enhance the fact that you are fat and pimply nasty people. Fit people like the girl being ridiculed....well, to me it takes away from the beauty of her otherwise attractive and hard earned physique. I wouldn't ever be the one to send in a letter to the editor ofver something like that....I do think that is lame. But defending tattoos and trying to justify them on your own fat nasty bodies....get real.

By NM on Aug 10, 2010 - 12:15PM
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I'm actually a bit surprised that the Oxygen team didn't ask the makeup artist to cover that up or simply airbrush it out of the picture all together thru photoshop. I know everyone these days is verrrrry anti-photoshop, but it is often a necessity. And if you saw certain models prior to shooting, in the 'raw' and in person, you would probably wonder how the heck they made it into a magazine at all. Sad, but true. I see stretch marks, cellulite, waaaay too much spray tan, faces that are 'aged wayyy beyond their age', moles, significantly uneven skin tone, etc... I have a few scars on me that makes me SO glad that photoshop was invented! I would be horrified if a magazine/company didn't airbrush them out to be honest. We models make our living by looking 'flawless' in front of the camera, and unfortunately, tattoos do detract from that flawless image in many cases... unless of course, the tattoos are the driving appeal in the picture (such as they are in pinup or 'rockabilly') Don't get me wrong, I lovvve tattoos! Super hot on men and women... but the fact that I do model for a living and KNOWING that that cute little butterfly or rose will undoubtedly 'wilt' and look ridiculous on me when I'm 70, has prevented me from getting one. The folks at Oxygen may be okay with it, but MANY companies looking to hire a model will not like the idea of a tattoo and will ask you to cover it up. In fact, EVERY shoot I have ever done with other models who have a visible tattoo has been asked to cover it up by the company... amazzzing what makeup can do! Anyhow, there's my 2 cents from a slightly different perspective....

By Dawn on Aug 10, 2010 - 9:23PM
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I'm sorry but BULLSHIT! Tattoos are an expression of creativity and personality!- just like fashion. If we all looked the same life would be a little boring don't ya think? You think she doesn't take health and fitness seriously? Look at her! People compete in comps- not to look the same but to win because their body is different from others! She's proving that she's not the same as everyone else and FYI some tattoos are really meaningful for some people- I have 4 and they all mean something very special to me!

By Marie on Aug 10, 2010 - 9:55PM
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I'm not certain where everyone is from on this thread, but in the world I live in tattoos aren't main stream and not accepted. Sure, you can say free speech and expression, but we're entitled to ours as well. As a former Art Director, we always covered tattoos on models. This is done because personal expression doesn't fit in with a photo shoot promoting clothing, good health or any other service - they're very distracting and make achieving your marketing goals more challenging, and I think body building falls under the same catagory.

By Jessica Blue on Aug 12, 2010 - 12:43PM
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Ok, their are people out there like "Michelle" that love to complain about the little things and miss out on the whole picture. Is "Michelle" or whoever said that tattoos are ugly, jealous of this beautiful and fit model?? Hmmmm...I have 2 tattoos; one that is a tribal art/sun that I got when I was 18, that I still really like actually. The other however is a cross with my stillborn daughter's footprint in the middle. I have the left foot and my husband has the right on his chest with the same cross. NOW tell me tattoos are ugly. Enough said.

By Kendra on Aug 12, 2010 - 3:10PM
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Ignorance is Bliss or so they say... If one person can make such a "small minded" comment about the a health and choices of a woman who is obviously much more disciplined than the average person, I must say ignorance is just that ignorance! Having a tattoo is a personal choice that each one of us make... I personally have 3, with plans on a few more. I also plan to one day look like the models in Oxygen magazine... What I won't do however is make UGLY comments about someone just because they choose to be a piece of living, breathing artwork. Getting a tattoo is probably one of the safest types of body modifications you can partake... I also read a comment that something about dirty needles and hepatitis, and tattoos being the epitomy of "trailer trash"? wow, what kind of dive are you hanging out in?

By Jackie on Aug 13, 2010 - 12:35PM
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I am looking for my June issue for the exact page number, but what I noticed was the fact that on one page the tattoo was on the left side and then on the next page the tattoo was on the right side! Is the Tattoo even real?

By lori lynn on Aug 13, 2010 - 5:50PM
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here's my tattoo ... on my wrist ... looks like a bracelet! My aniversary date and initials of my boys!

By Michele (from Barbados) on Aug 13, 2010 - 6:11PM
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Because everyone does something, it doesn't mean that it's right. Isn't that what we were taught and teach our children too? I, like Michelle was surprised that a model with a tattoo was chosen for the cover of Oyxgen . It simply didn't portray the "clean health" that fitness is about. I'm not saying that people who have tattoos aren't healthy so dont' panic, but it seems like an oxymoron to me...you know "jumbo shrimp" "unbiased opinion", "pretty ugly"? 1) Tattoos are risky. Plain and simple. Both getting them done, keeping them clean and in later years. 2) In most countries, a person with a tattoo cannot give blood (even to save your child's, husband's, parents life) Are they really worth it? 3) Don't we tell our children that they should "wait until they get older" before getting a tattoo? How many "tattooed parents" would honestly let their 8 yr old daughter or 11 yr old son get a tattoo? Seems a bit hypocritical. 4) Finally, I saved this for last but for me it's actually first. ?Do not cut your bodies for the dead or put tattoo marks on yourselves. I am the LORD? (Leviticus 19:28). One may argue we are no longer under Old Testament Laws. My response: ?So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God? (1 Corinthians 10:31). Are tattoos to the glory of God? More like the beautifying of self. If we oubt whether it pleases God, then it is best not to engage in that activity. Romans 14:23 reminds us that anything that does not come from faith is sin. If our bodies belong to God, we should make sure we have His clear ?permission? before we ?mark them up? with tattoos or body piercings. ?Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit, who is in you, whom you have received from God? You are not your own; you were bought at a price. Therefore honor God with your body.? 1 Corinthians 6:19-20 This great truth should have a real bearing on what we do and where we go with our bodies. To sum up: Do what is right, not what is popular. That's what I teach my children.

By Laura Vasquez on Aug 18, 2010 - 11:29PM
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Tattoos are disgusting and should always be covered up when in public.

By FA on Aug 22, 2010 - 2:13PM
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Seriously? Does religion have to enter this discussion? I believe in "Do what is right, not what is popular", but what is right is subjective. What is right is what is right for that particular person. I am 44 years old and I plan on getting a tattoo before turning 45. That is my choice and frankly, I'm not fussed by what others think about the idea. I commend Oxygen for not deleting the tattoo. In my opinion, they made the right decision whether you agree with the idea of tattoos or not. Clearly the magazines focus was not on the tattoo, but on the point of the article which was training. Did the article even mention her tattoo? Why is everyone's knickers in a twist about this. If you can't get past the tattoo in the article, flip the offensive pages and move on!

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COPYRIGHT INFRINGEMENT CLAIMS

If you believe in good faith that any material or content posted on the Site infringes on your copyright, you (or your agent) may send us a notice requesting that we remove the material or block access to it.

To send a notice, please forward the following information to terms@rkpubs.com:

-       Your address, telephone number, and email address;

-       A description of the copyrighted work that you claim has been infringed;

-       A description of the allegedly infringing material of where the allegedly infringing material is located;

-       A statement by you that you have a good faith belief that the disputed use is not authorized by you, the copyright owner, its agent, or the law;

-       An electronic or physical signature of the personal authorized to act on behalf of the owner of the copyright interest; and

-       A statement by you, made under penalty of perjury, that the above information in your notice is accurate and that you are the copyright owner or authorized to act on the copyright owner’s behalf.

 

LICENSE

Please note that, because we host oxygenmag.com and other forums and communications on the Site and therefore redistribute materials you give us, we need to obtain certain rights in those materials. You hereby grant us a royalty-free, worldwide, perpetual, sub-licensable (through multiple tiers), irrevocable, transferable, non-exclusive right to use, reproduce, modify, create derivative works from, distribute, digitally perform, publicly perform and publicly display and otherwise exploit in any manner any content, material and/or your name posted on the Site (collectively, the “Material”), and/or to incorporate it in other works in any form, media or technology now known or later developed, for any purpose whatsoever, commercial or otherwise, without compensation to or prior approval by you. By submitting or sending Material to the Site you represent and warrant that (1) no other party has any rights to the Material or that you have all rights necessary to grant the rights granted hereunder, (2) the Material is not subject to any obligation, whether of confidentiality, attribution or otherwise, on our part and we shall not be liable for any use or disclosure of any Material, and (3) your provision of the Material to and through the Site, complies with all applicable laws, rules and regulations. Your further irrevocably waive any “moral rights” or other rights with respect to attribution or authorship or integrity of the Material that you may have under any applicable law under any legal theory.

 

USER SUBMITTED CONTENT

On certain sections of the Site, you may be permitted to post comments, information, creative works (including but not limited to audio or audiovisual works), photographs, recipes or other materials (“User Content”).

Without limiting the foregoing, such license permits RKP to publicly display, publicly perform, distribute, and reproduce the User Content, in whole or in part, alone or with other material on or via the Internet, including without limitation, any RKP authorized online and offline receiving and playback devices by any means of transmission now known or hereafter divised. You further grant RKP the right to use your User Content, likeness, biographical information, logos, marks or trade names, or other information provided or obtained, including without limitation, the right to publicly display, publicly perform, distribute, and reproduce such excerpts of your User Content, for purposes of advertising or promoting RKP, (1) its products and/or services; (2) such User Content will not infringe the rights of any person or entity, or violate any governmental rule, regulation statute or law, or the terms and conditions of use of this Site; (3) no money will be owing to any party as a result of the posting of the User Content or its use as contemplated herein; (4) you will be responsible for all User Content submitted through your e-mail access, and for all purposes under these Terms and conditions, all submissions from your account shall be deemed to have been submitted by you; and (5) you are 18 or older.

RKP may edit, alter, post, decline to post, remove, discard or delete your User Content at anytime without any further notice.

RKP may, at no cost or expense to you, process your material for playback over the Internet or direct playback on prepared files. RKP shall have and ertail all right, title and interest in and to the data resulting from such processing (“Digital Files”), including without limitation, encoding, compressing, formatting and processing of audio and video data. RKP agrees that its use of the Digital Files will be in accordance with this Agreement.

 

THIRD PARTY SERVICES AND CONTENT

The Site contains services and content supplied by parties other than RKP (such serves and content, collectively, “Third Party Services,” “Third Party Providers”), including Third Party Services that connect Site users with third party vendors (“Third Party Vendors”).

Any opinions, advice, judgments, statements, services, offers, or other information or materials expressed or made available by and Third Party Provider or Third Party Vendor, including through and Third Party Service, are those of the respective author(s) or distributor(s) and not of RKP. We are not responsible for such information, including errors or omissions in such information or materials or results obtained by using such information or materials, and shall not be liable for any loss or damage caused by your reliance on such information or materials. RKP does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any Third Party Services or such information or materials, nor their merchantability or fitness for any particular purpose. You are solely responsible and liable for (and RKP shall not e responsible or liable for) your Communications with Third Party Providers and Third Party Vendors. RKP is not involved in, a party to, or responsible for any Communications between you and any Third Party Provider or Third Party Vendor or any disputes arising therefrom. Any such Communications with disputes are specifically and solely between you and the applicable Third Party Provider or Third Party Vendor. Any warranties or representations made with regard to any Third Party Provider, and Third Party Vendor, the conduct of any Third Party Provider’s or Third Party Vendor’s business, or any products or services featured on any Third Party Service, are made by the applicable Third Party Provider or Third Party Vendor, and not by RKP. You agree to release RKP, it’s affiliates and third party service providers, and their respective directors, officers, employees, owners, licensors and agents from all claims, demands and damages (actual and consequential) of any kind and nature, known and unknown, suspected or unsuspected, disclosed and undisclosed, arising out of or in any way connected with any Communications or disputes between you and any Third Party Provider or Third Party Vendor. We do not endorse and Third Party Provider or Third Party Vendor, nor do we guarantee the quality of their goods or services, the information they provide through the site, or the conduct of their respective businesses. We encourage you to conduct your own research and due diligence into the Third Party Providers and Third Party Vendors.

YOU AGREE THAT YOUR USE OF THIRD PARTY SERVICES AVAILABLE THROUGH THE SITE IS AT YOUR OWN RISK.

YOU AGREE THAT YOUR USE OF ANY LINKED SITE, INCLUDING YOUR USE OF ANY CONTENT, PRODUCTS, ADVERTISING OR OTHER MATERIALS AVAILABLE THROUGH SUCH LINKED SITE, IS AT YOUR OWN RISK AND IS SUBJECT TO THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF USE APPLICABLE TO SUCH LINKED SITE AND SUCH MATERIAL.

DISCLAIMER OF WARRANTY; LIMITATION OF LIABILITY

YOU UNDERSTAND AND AGREE THAT YOUR USE OF THE SITE IS AT YOUR SOLE RISK. THE SITE AND THE RELATED SERVICES ARE PROVIDED ON AN “AS IS,” “AS AVAILABLE” BASIS WITHOUT WARRANTIES OR REPRESENTATIONS OF ANY KIND, EITHER EXPRESS, IMPLIED OR STATUTORY, INCLUDING BUT NOT LIMITED TO WARRANTIES OF TITLE, NON-INFRINGEMENT, OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE, OTHER THAN THOSE WARRANTIES WHICH ARE IMPLIED BY AND INCAPABLE OF EXCLUSION UNDER LAW.

YOU SPECIFICALLY ACKNOWLEDGE THAT RKP, IT’S SUBSIDIARIES, AFFILIATES, SUPPLIERS, ADVERTISERS, SPONSORS, THIRD PARTY SERVICE PROVIDERS, AND THEIR RESPECTIVE EMPLOYEES, OFFICERS, DIRECTORS, AND AGENTS, SHALL NOT BE RESPONSIBLE OR LIABLE TO YOU OR ANY THIRD PARTY FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, SPECIAL, PUNITIVE, OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES OR INJURY ARISING OUT OF THE USE OF OR INABILITY TO USE THE SITE OR OUT OF THE BREACH OF ANY WARRANTY, OR CAUSED BY ANY FAILURE OF PERFORMANCE, ERROR, OMISSION, INTERRUPTION, DELETION, DEFECT, DELAY IN OPERATION OR TRANSMISSION, COMPUTER VIRUS, COMMUNICATION LINE FAILURE, THEFT OR DESTRUCTION OR UNAUTHORIZED ACCESS TO AND/OR ALTERATION OF THE SITE, WHETHER FOR BREACH OF CONTRACT, TORTIOUS BEHAVIOR, NEGLIGENCE, OR UNDER ANY OTHER CAUSE OF ACTION EVEN OF RKP OR SUCH PARTY HAS BEEN ADVISED OF THE POSSIBILITY OF DAMAGES.

RKP NEITHER ENDORSES NOR IS RESPONSIBLE FOR THE ACCURACY OR RELIABILITY OF ANY OPINION, ADVICE, OR STATEMENT ON THE SITE, NORE FOR ANY OFFENSIVE, DEFAMATORY, OR OBSCENE POSTING MADE ON THE SITE BY ANYONE.

 

MONITORING; REMOVAL OF CONTENT

We have the right, but not the obligation, to monitor the content and use of the Site, to determine compliance with these Terms of Use and any other operating rules established by us, or for any other reason or purpose. We reserve the right, in our sole discretion, to edit, refuse to post, or remove any content or materials submitted to or posted on the Site, for any reason, including if we find such material to be in violation of these Terms of Use or otherwise objectionable or inaccurate. We also reserve the right, in our sole discretion, to disclose such materials and the circumstances surrounding their transmission to any third party in order to operate the Site properly; to protect ourselves, our sponsors, and our Members and visitors; to comply with legal obligations or governmental requests; or for any other reason or purpose.

 

TERMINATION

Your only right with respect to any dissatisfaction with (1) these Terms of Use, (2) any policy or practices of ours in operating the Site, or (3) any content available through the Site or any change therein, is to stop visiting and using the Site. We may terminate your use of the Site, including your membership in the Site, at any time, in our sole discretion. Upon any such termination, your right to use the Site will immediately cease. You agree that any termination of your access to or use of the Site may be affected without prior notice, and that we may immediately deactivate or delete your password and Member name, and all related information and files associated with it, and/or bar any further access to such information or files. You agree that we shall not be liable to you or any third party for any termination of your access to the Site or to any such information or files, and shall not be required to make such information or files available to you after any such termination.

 

EQUIPMENT

You shall be responsible for obtaining and maintaining all telephone, computer hardware, and other equipment needed for access to and use of the Site, and you are responsible for all charges related thereto.

 

TRANSMITTING AND DOWNLOADING

RKP is not responsible for any damages incurred as a result of any interruption, transmission blackout, delayed transmission or incorrect data transmission over the internet.

 

Rkp does not warrant or represent that the Site will meet your requirements, that access will not be interrupted or delayed, that there will be no failures, errors or omissions or loss of transmitted information, that no viruses will be transmitted or that no damage will occur to your computer system.

 

YOUR RESPONSIBILITIES

You are responsible for undertaking suitable precautions to scan for computer viruses and maintaining a back up of all data and/or equipment.

 

By using this Site, you agree that you will be responsible for maintaining the confidentiality of any passwords and account information you may provide, and that you will restrict access to your computer to avoid disclosure of such. You further agree that you will be responsible for all activity taken under your password and/or account.

 

PRIVACY

Please see Oxygen's and Robert Kennedy Publishing's privacy policy.

 

LINKING TO OUR SITE

If you are interested in linking to the Site from your site, please e-mail your request, which we may approve or deny in our sole discretion, to webeditorial@oxygenmag.com


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