2 minute read
Is Your Body Image Holding You Back from Working Out?
Written by Christine DeFilippis
Expert Contributor and Owner of Pop Fit Studio
Do you ever think or say to yourself, “I’m not going to the gym or joining a fitness class until I lose some weight!”? If you have had negative thoughts about your body, you are not alone. Approximately 91% of women are unhappy with their body. These thoughts can be roadblocks to taking the right steps to care for your body. While body image may act as a motivator to some, for others it can act as a barrier to exercising.
If you are anxious about going to the gym because of a negative body image, take inventory of all the ways that your body provides for you and functions properly. Are you able to walk, run, jump, eat, sleep and breathe? Then learn to appreciate all that your body does for you.
Are you the bully of your own body? People with a negative body image will frequently engage in negative body talk, saying things like:
Focus on the non-superficial things. Engage in positive body talk, like:
Write out all the positive body statements you can think of and then place them around your home, office and in your car, so you are reminded throughout your day. Place post-it notes with positive statements on your mirrors so you are reminded to engage in positive body talk.
Understand what is real and what’s not. Filters, photoshop, airbrushing and more create an unrealistic and unattainable standard that no one can meet. Don’t be fooled by what you see on social media. Instead, accept the idea that healthy and happy bodies come in all shapes and sizes. Isn’t it time to detox from the social media influencers that negatively impact your body image?
Treat your body with respect. Avoid negative body talk and focus instead on all the things your body does for you. Celebrate those positive qualities, skills and interests that you have as a person rather than focusing on appearance-related qualities. In the end, your body exists for you, not for other people. Your body is not to be viewed, judged or criticized by anyone, even you.
Christine DeFillipis
484.453.8533
1305 West Chester Pike, Havertown
In the Manoa Shopping Center, above Applebee’s
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