So you’ve been going to the gym consistently and are following a nutrition plan and you’re seeing results. Your clothes fit differently, you’re stronger, and, most importantly, you feel better. But you still don’t look like the pictures you see on fitness models and influencers posting online. What gives?
Body acceptance in the digital age is hard. How often do you “edit” yourself in the mirror? Turn to the side, suck in your stomach, nitpick how your butt or your thighs or your everything looks? Probably more often than you’d like to admit. I know I do.
But it’s all bullshit.
A simple Google search will find tons of side-by-side photos that show there is more to photos on social media and magazines than meet the eye. From brighter lights, and digital altering of face shape, eye shape, waist shape (the list goes on) computers can edit a photo any way you want. Which means one thing: Beauty ideals are ridiculous.
How many of us women are aiming for:
- A flat stomach
- ‘Healthy’ skinny
- Large breasts/butt
- Thigh gap
But in the 1990’s we were aiming for:
- Waifish
- Extremely thin
- Translucent skin
- Androgynous bodies
In the 1980’s, the ideal was:
- Athletic
- Svelte, but curvy
- Tall
- Toned arms
If you go back further, the ideal in the 1960’s was:
- Willowy
- Thin
- Long, slim legs
- Adolescent physique
Men have to fight their own ridiculous standards. We’re currently in the age of the ‘dad-bod,’ someone who isn’t unhealthy, but isn’t super chiseled either, but in the 90’s men were expected to look like Brad Pitt in Fight Club, and in the 80’s, the popular perception was that the ideal male form was that of a body builder.
The ‘ideal body’ for both men and women changes every decade. And, every decade, we’re told that *this* is the beauty standard for ever and ever and always. But it’s garbage.
Your body is shaped how it’s shaped. You can change it to a certain extent, but ultimately, you’re still going to look like you. And that’s awesome! Do you have strong legs? Max out those deadlifts! Do you have a strong upper body? Rock those pull ups! Are you getting better and putting in the effort? That’s all that matters!
Do yourself a favor and forget the fitness photos you see online. Focus on being the best version of yourself, and let the ‘standards’ change how they will.
Happy sweating!
Meghan
