Body Positive Fitness

When it comes to fitness programs, it's crucial that they are inclusive and emphasize movement for joy, rather than solely focusing on weight loss.

Unfortunately, the fitness industry has been known to perpetuate toxic and detrimental messages that not only shame, discourage and dishearten participants, some of the explicit and implicit ‘messages’ being communicated are negatively impacting people’s mental health.

When fitness instructors use language that implies certain body shapes or firmness are superior, or promote the idea that participants need to move in a certain way in order to achieve a certain look. This type of messaging can create an unwelcoming environment for many people and contribute to feelings of inadequacy and shame.

Toxic fitness culture can have serious implications for mental health. It can lead to feelings of shame, guilt, and anxiety, as well as promote disordered eating and exercise behaviors, and straight up suck for people who feel they don’t fit the ‘standard’ or mold of what fitness/health is suppose to look like.

Focusing on movement for joy, pleasure, and active living can be a more positive and sustainable approach to fitness. Rather than solely focusing on weight loss or muscle gain, participants can find joy in moving their bodies and exploring what feels good for them.

LOOK for programs that emphasize community, physical activity, social connections, and learning new skills for people of all shapes and abilities. (You’ll know you’re in the right place when everyone isn’t dressed the same/have the same body type in the class)

LISTEN for instructors who use mindful cues to remind participants to enjoy movement, listen to their bodies, and find ways of moving that make them feel happy, rather than using language that focuses on body modifications like toning or sculpting.

FEEL the room and the energy - you’re the one who knows best the kinds of places and people who support you, versus those who make you feel worse.

By creating inclusive fitness programs that prioritize movement for joy and body positivity, we can foster a more supportive and welcoming environment that encourages people to engage in physical activity for its many benefits, including improved mood, reduced stress, and increased energy and strength, regardless of body size or shape.


This year, let’s create spaces that celebrate all body shapes, sizes, and abilities, and recognize that everyone has the right to participate in physical activity without judgment or pressure to change their body.