Hey, curvy besties! What is inclusive fitness? You probably heard of it before or know the basics, but did you know it allows you to take up space in the fitness world? These spaces have been historically been unwelcoming to anyone outside the stereotypical slim and toned image. But inclusive fitness is changing that narrative.
What Is Inclusive Fitness?
So, what is inclusive fitness? It’s about making the world of exercise open and welcoming to everyone, regardless of size, shape, or ability. Inclusive fitness challenges the idea that exercise is only about slimming down or toning up. It’s about moving your body in a way that feels good, supports your health, and fits into your life.
This movement is about creating fitness spaces where everyone feels they belong. Traditional gyms and fitness programs often push weight loss as the primary goal, leaving those who don’t fit the “ideal” body type feeling excluded. Inclusive fitness flips the script. It emphasizes that every body deserves to take up space in the fitness sphere. Exercise isn’t just for those who want to shrink their bodies; it’s for everyone who wants to celebrate what their body can do.
Why All Bodies Deserve to Take Up Space
Inclusive fitness isn’t just a trend—it’s a necessary shift. Many have felt unwelcome in fitness spaces, leading to a damaged relationship with exercise. You’re not alone if you’ve ever felt judged at the gym or pressured to work out for weight loss. Many people have faced psychological and physiological barriers that make fitness feel more like a punishment than a celebration of movement.
Everyone has the right to move in ways that bring joy, strength, and well-being. Inclusive fitness is about breaking down those barriers and helping everyone find a way to enjoy physical activity. It’s not about forcing your body to change to fit some ideal. It’s about loving your body enough to give it the movement it craves in a way that feels right for you.
3 Fitness Programs That Practice Inclusive Fitness
There are several size-inclusive fitness programs out there that embody the principles of inclusive fitness. Here are three that stand out:
Big Fit Girl
Founded by Louise Green, Big Fit Girl is a program that champions body diversity and encourages women of all sizes to embrace fitness without the pressure to lose weight. The focus is on building strength, confidence, and community. With online workouts and resources, Big Fit Girl helps women everywhere feel empowered to take up space in fitness.
Body Positive Fitness Alliance
Body Positive Fitness Alliance connects individuals with fitness professionals, prioritizing inclusivity and body positivity. Their mission is to create a fitness industry where everyone feels welcomed and supported, regardless of size or ability. Their directory and resources make it easier to find trainers and classes that align with the principles of inclusive fitness.
Curvy Yoga Studio
Founded by Anna Guest-Jelley, Curvy Yoga Studio offers yoga classes for people of all sizes. This online platform provides accessible yoga that meets everyone where they are, focusing on body positivity and self-compassion. Curvy Yoga Studio encourages participants to honor their bodies through movement, offering modifications and support to make yoga inclusive and enjoyable for everyone.
So, what is inclusive fitness? It’s a movement changing the game by making fitness accessible and welcoming to everyone. The next time you think about exercise, remember: it’s not about fitting into a mold but about celebrating the body you have, just as it is.
The author’s content and opinions have not been pre-reviewed, approved or endorsed by Discover.
