I’ve noticed that many celebrities, influencers, and fitness pros who, just a few years ago were championing acceptance of all bodies, are now sharing their “weight-release” routines.

Over the years, I’ve seen how harmful traditional fitness messaging can be, and that’s why I’m not giving up on body-positive fitness—because everyone deserves to feel empowered in their body, no matter their size or ability.

What Is Body Positive Fitness?

Body-positive fitness is about moving in ways that feel good, without the pressure to shrink, tone, or achieve a specific body shape. My clients and I focus on goals like what their bodies are capable of, specific movements or activities they want to achieve, or decreasing their pain, just to name a few.  My clients still make physical progress in our sessions, we just don’t use the scale to measure the range of their success.  Body Positive Fitness means that all bodies are worthy of respect and acceptance, and that fitness is there to build you up, not cut you down.

Challenging Diet Culture and Toxic Fitness Norms

For too long, diet culture has dominated the fitness industry, promoting the idea that exercise is only valuable if it leads to weight loss. This harmful mindset discourages many from engaging in movement at all. The truth is, fitness should be about more than aesthetics—it should support our physical and mental health. Body-positive fitness challenges these outdated ideas, making space for people to enjoy movement without unrealistic expectations.

Fitness Is for Everyone, Not Just the “Perfect” Body

One of the biggest reasons I’m committed to body-positive fitness is because fitness should be inclusive. Many workout spaces cater to a narrow definition of “fit,” leaving people in larger bodies, those with disabilities, or beginners feeling like they don’t belong.  I’ve met clients who liked exercise, but didn’t know how to participate in it without tying it to making themselves smaller.   But movement is for everyone. Whether you modify exercises, move at your own pace, or choose activities that feel best for your body, you deserve to take up space in fitness.

Navigating a Fitness World Obsessed with Perfection

It’s not always easy to stay body positive in an industry that constantly pushes perfection. But there are ways to create a supportive fitness experience:

• Find a body-positive community. Surround yourself with trainers, classes, or online spaces that promote inclusivity.

• Curate your social media. Follow accounts that encourage fitness for all bodies, and unfollow those that make you feel less than.

• Set personal goals. Focus on what movement does for you, rather than external expectations.

Why I’m Committed to Body Positive Fitness

I’m not giving up on body-positive fitness because I believe movement should be joyful, not punishing. I recommend reading How to Stay Invested in Body Positivity, an article I found really inspiring.  IMO, the reasons to stay committed to body positive fitness OUTWEIGH the reasons not to, and I’m not going anywhere.