Hey babe! If you’re here, you’re probably looking to create a fitness routine that’s not just about weight loss but about feeling good in your body—whatever its shape or size. Well, you’ve come to the right place!
Let’s dive into how you can build a body positive fitness routine that works for you.
*Disclaimer: The suggestions provided in this blog post are for informational purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routines. I am not a doctor and the information presented is based on research and personal experience. Individual results may vary, and any actions taken based on the information in this blog post are done at your own risk. It's essential to consult a healthcare expert for personalized guidance tailored to your specific health needs and circumstances. Your health and well-being should always be a top priority, and professional medical guidance is crucial for making informed decisions about your health.
Understanding Body Positive Fitness
First things first, let’s talk about what body positive fitness actually means.
Body positive fitness is a movement that promotes the idea that fitness should be inclusive and accessible for people of all body types.
It’s about celebrating body diversity and finding joy in movement, rather than just focusing on weight loss or achieving a certain look.
Which, idk about you, but i think thats a fantastic idea...
Body positive fitness encourages you to love your body as it is, and to engage in activities that make you feel good, both physically and mentally.
It’s about moving away from the pressures of diet culture and instead embracing an inclusive way of thinking about fitness.
So how do we go about actually making this happen?!
I'm giving you 8 steps to help you create your own body positive fitness journey, plus tips and best practices to help you along the way!
Step 1: Shift Your Mindset
Before you even lace up your sneakers, the first step is to shake up your mindset.
Fitness is for every size, and it’s important to understand that everyone has a different body type.
People say to "embrace body acceptance" and focus on what your body can do, not what it looks like. But I know first hand how hard this can be!
It's something I used to struggle with in the past.
But I promise, the moment you start thinking about how many things your body does for you that other's can't do or don't have... you'll start to embrace your body for what it is.
Most importantly, always remember that a body positive fitness routine is about enjoying the process and feeling good, not just about the end result.
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Step 2: Find Joy in Movement
The core of body positive fitness is joyful movement. This means finding activities that you genuinely enjoy and look forward to.
Whether it’s dancing, hiking, swimming, hiit, or yoga, the key is to choose exercises that make you feel happy and energized.
You are so much more likely to get up and go to a workout that you are looking forward to, not dreading.
Heck! Moving your body SHOULD be fun, not another task you feel like you "have" to do in your day.
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Step 3: Set Realistic Goals
Setting goals can be a great motivator, but it’s important that these goals are realistic and not solely focused on weight loss.
Think about what you want to achieve in terms of how you feel, your fitness level, and your overall health.
Some examples of these non-weight related goals are: Boosting your energy levels, increasing your quality of sleep, waking up easier without that second cup of coffee, etc.
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Step 4: Create a Supportive Environment
Your environment can significantly impact your fitness journey.
Surround yourself with positive influences and find a supportive community.
This could be a body positive yoga class, a positive fitness studio, or even following positive fitness Instagram accounts.
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Step 5: Personalize Your Body Positive Fitness Routine
Everyone is different, so your fitness routine should be tailored to your unique needs and preferences.
Whether you prefer working out at home, joining a class, or working with a personal trainer, find what works best for you.
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Step 6: Focus on Mental and Emotional Health
Fitness isn’t just about physical health—it’s also about mental and emotional health.
Engaging in regular exercise can improve your mood, reduce stress, and boost your overall mental well being.
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Step 7: Embrace Intuitive Movement
Intuitive movement is all about listening to your body and moving in ways that feel good.
It’s about honoring your body’s signals and needs, rather than following rigid workout plans.
If something doesn't feel right, switch it up!
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Step 8: Stay Informed and Inspired
Keep yourself motivated by staying informed and finding inspiration.
Read about body positivity, listen to body positive audiobooks, follow inspiring figures in the fitness industry, and educate yourself about inclusive fitness spaces and practices.
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Overcoming Challenges in Your Body Positive Fitness Journey
Building a body positive fitness routine isn’t always easy. You might face challenges such as negative self-talk, societal pressures, or finding inclusive spaces.
Here’s how to overcome these obstacles:
Dealing with Negative Self-Talk
Override Your Mind with Positive Self Talk
Ignore all the mumbo jumbo you hear about how self talk isn't helpful. Our minds are one of THE most powerful things on this planet.
You can very quickly flip the script in your brain when you course correct with positive affirmations and uplifting thoughts.
Reach Out for Support
Talk to friends, family, or a therapist about your feelings. Know who the right people to go to are.
If you're a more reserved person, like me (I know shocking with a blog, right?!) you might prefer an AI or online therapy option.
If you haven't heard of Elomia, it's a fantastic AI Mental Health Chatbox app. 9 out of 10 users say talking with Elomia was helpful and 85% reported a mood improvement.
I found it extremely helpful the times I've used it!
Navigating Societal Pressures
Set Boundaries
Limit exposure to media or people that promote unrealistic body standards.
This is honestly why, as of right now, I have zero social media. No instagram, no tiktok, not even facebook.
Because I know what my personal triggers are. Seeing endless "for you" pages and algorithms of unhealthy expectations is not good for my mental health. And that's okay!
I'm aware of it and it's a boundary for me.
Educate Yourself
Learn about diet culture and its impacts to better resist its pressures.
Now, I'm not talking about eating clean, making healthy food choices or prepping meals. When I say diet culture, I'm talking about the fad diets and weight loss trends.
As someone in the healthcare field and a background of personal training, you know this is going to be my stance.
Bottom line.. You're smart. You know that achieving something worth while is going to take hard work and dedication.
It's not a weight loss pill, weight loss shot, or overnight miracle.
Finding Inclusive Spaces
Research
Look for gyms, studios, or online platforms that promote inclusivity. The further we get into advanced societies and growing awareness, brands and companies alike will be booming with inclusive behaviors. It's just a matter of being patient and taking the time to find them.
Advocate
Advocate for more inclusive practices in your local fitness community! Change happens when we make it happen.
Do you think Rosa Parks just waltzed onto a bus and nonchalantly sat down?!
NO!
She knew it would be hard. She knew she would get the glares and snide comments. But she also KNEW what mattered deep down in her heart and she chased it! She made it a point to create change.
The Benefits of a Body Positive Fitness Routine
Adopting a body positive fitness routine comes with numerous benefits that go beyond physical health.
Physical Benefits
By following a body positive fitness routine, you can see significant improvements in your physical fitness.
This isn't about size.
This is about making yourself healthy from the inside out. Preventing disease and maintaining a healthy heart to keep you around for yearssssss!
With a fitness routine, you'll increase your strength, endurance, and overall fitness level, leading to better health.
This approach not only enhances your physical capabilities but also contributes to your overall well-being, making you feel healthier and more energetic in your daily life.
Mental and Emotional Benefits
Engaging in a body positive fitness routine has profound benefits for your mental and emotional health.
It helps reduce stress and improve your mood, providing a sense of relaxation and happiness.
Additionally, it boosts your self-esteem and body image, fostering a greater sense of confidence and self-acceptance.
Social Benefits
Participating in a body positive fitness routine allows you to build connections with like-minded individuals who share similar values and goals.
You'll gain a supportive network that encourages your journey, providing motivation, understanding, and camaraderie as you pursue your fitness and well-being objectives.
Practical Tips and Resources for Body Positive Fitness Success
Let's dive into some practical tips and resources that can help you create and maintain a body positive fitness routine.
Practical Tips for Starting Your Body Positive Fitness Journey
Set Positive Intentions:
Begin your fitness journey by setting positive intentions.
Focus on how you want to feel, rather than how you want to look. This mindset shift can help you stay motivated and enjoy your workouts.
Start Small:
If you’re new to exercise, start with small, manageable steps. Gradually increase the intensity and duration of your workouts as your fitness level improves.
This approach helps prevent burnout and keeps you motivated.
Prioritize Consistency Over Intensity:
It’s better to be consistent with your workouts than to go all out and then burn out.
Find a routine that you can stick to and enjoy on a regular basis.
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Mix It Up:
Variety *is* the spice of life, and this holds true for your fitness routine as well.
Mix up your workouts to keep things interesting.
Try different activities like dancing, hiking, swimming, or body positive yoga.
Listen to Your Body:
Pay attention to how your body feels during and after exercise. If something doesn’t feel right, modify the activity or take a break.
It’s important to respect your body’s limits and needs, especially if you do have a beautiful larger body or are new to certain types of exercise.
Create a Positive Environment:
Surround yourself with positive influences. Join fitness communities that promote body positivity and follow social media accounts that inspire and uplift you.
Resources to Support Your Body Positive Fitness Journey
1. Body Positive Fitness Apps:
- FitOn: Offers a variety of workout videos that focus on enjoyment and movement, rather than weight loss.
- MyFitnessPal: While traditionally a calorie-tracking app, you can use it to log your workouts and track your progress in a way that focuses on your health and fitness goals, not just weight loss.
2. Online Platforms and Communities:
- Health at Every Size (HAES): A movement that promotes health and well-being without focusing on weight. The HAES website offers resources and a supportive community.
- Body Positive Fitness Alliance: An organization that offers resources, workshops, and a community dedicated to promoting body positive fitness.
3. Body Positive Books:
- "Body Positive Power" by Megan Jayne Crabbe: A fantastic read that challenges societal beauty standards and encourages self-love and acceptance.
- "The Body Is Not an Apology" by Sonya Renee Taylor: A powerful book that promotes radical self-love and body positivity.
Body Positive Power: Because Life Is Already Happening and You Don't Need Flat Abs to Live It
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4. Fitness Classes and Studios:
- Body Positive Yoga: Many yoga studios offer body positive classes that cater to people of all shapes and sizes. The thing I love about yoga is there are SO many modifications for all fitness levels.
- Inclusive Fitness Studios: Look for local studios that promote size inclusivity and body diversity. Many cities have gyms and fitness centers dedicated to creating an inclusive fitness space.
5. Strength Coaches:
- Find a Strength Coach: Working with a strength coach who understands body positivity can help you develop a safe and effective fitness routine. They can tailor workouts to fit your unique needs and goals, whether you have a fantastically unique body or are working on building strength.
6. Social Media Accounts:
- @mynameisjessamyn: Jessamyn Stanley is a body positive yoga teacher who promotes self-love and acceptance.
@themirnavator: Mirna Valerio, a plus-size athlete, shares her journey and inspires others to embrace fitness at any size.
@bodyposipanda: Megan Jayne Crabbe’s account is filled with body positivity and joyful movement inspiration.
Building a body positive fitness routine is a personal and empowering journey. It’s about more than just physical fitness; it’s about embracing and celebrating your body, prioritizing mental and emotional health, and finding joy in movement.
By setting positive intentions, listening to your body, and surrounding yourself with supportive influences, you can create a fitness routine that truly works for you.
Never forget that fitness is for every size, and you deserve to feel good in your body just as it is. Here’s to a happier, healthier, and more positive you!
Stay fabulous and keep moving with joy!
xoxo,
*Disclaimer: The suggestions provided in this blog post are for informational purposes only and should not be considered as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider before making any significant changes to your health and wellness routines. I am not a doctor and the information presented is based on research and personal experience. Individual results may vary, and any actions taken based on the information in this blog post are done at your own risk. It's essential to consult a healthcare expert for personalized guidance tailored to your specific health needs and circumstances. Your health and well-being should always be a top priority, and professional medical guidance is crucial for making informed decisions about your health.
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