“Body positivity” has become a buzz word that most people recognize, but few people really understand.  Is body positivity more important now that we live in a photo-shopped, social media culture where body comparisons are constant?  What is the upshot of being body positive in a competitive world? FitClub has always been an inclusive fitness experience that welcomes all fitness levels and body types, and now more than ever, it’s important we all understand what we stand to gain from being more body positive.

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What is body-positivity?

Whether you’re trying to lose weight or gain muscle, we all struggle from time to time with the shape and makeup of our own bodies. Body positivity turns that theory on its head and asks you to look at what your body can do.  Body positivity means knowing that everyone is a different shape and size and that as you work to improve your health, you are grateful for what your body can already accomplish.  While you may have body goals, having a healthy body that you appreciate should always be paramount.

Can body positivity make you healthier?

Yes!  Researchers have been studying the effect of being positive and have found that working towards a better image of your own body can reduce depression, improve self esteem, and prevent eating disorders.

Perhaps even more alarming is the effect that a lack of overall body positivity has on children.  Exposure to advertisements for “the perfect body” may be costing children the most. A study done on children between the ages of six and eight years old showed that even young children believe that the “ideal body” weighs less than their current body.  Imagine instead, if children saw real people living their healthiest, happiest lives right now and accepting their bodies for all they can do.

Does body positivity keep you from reaching your fitness goals?

No, in fact maintaining positivity about your current shape, size, and weight may actually help you make more gains in fitness and improve your healthy lifestyle.  Exercising and eating well because you love and appreciate your body can help you make a healthy lifestyle a reward instead of a punishment.

How do you become more body positive?

First, look beyond the scale to set fitness and health goals.  Setting health and fitness goals designed to improve the way your body functions can help you see the value in fitness beyond aesthetics.  Second, think beyond the photo-shopped images of perfection. The ideals you see in social media accounts, advertisements, and television are often creations of a cutting room floor.  Finally, practice the way you talk to yourself.  Your brain believes the messages you send to and about yourself. Mayo Clinic has found that whether you maintain positive or negative thoughts may impact not only your happiness, but also your health.  Learning meditation or other forms of positive thinking may help you improve your attitude, your self esteem, and ultimately your health!