There’s a ‘Pilates body’ stereotype that the activity is just for thin women.
Here’s why it’s harmful and why every body is a Pilates body.
For many, its the sight of young, thin women leaving the studio together.
How did this stereotype come about?
Some of those dancers became [Pilates] proteges, and like calls to like, Strobel says.
When people see themselves represented somewhere, its an easy assumption that you belong in a space.
a fitness enthusiast and content creator whose YouTube channel is dedicated to workouts for larger bodies
To me, a Pilates body isnt a look, its a behavior.
If youve got a body and youre practicing Pilates, congratulationsyou have a Pilates body.
Lindsey Strobel
Why is the thin woman Pilates stereotype harmful?
We rarely see people who look like us actually doing Pilates, Strobel says.
This homogeneity extends to body size, as well.
Everybody deserves to feel good in their skin and to feel motivated and empowered by movement.
Its the industry that needs to address all of these opportunities for improvement.
Is Pilates really for every body?
When the focus is on physique, the otherbenefits of Pilatesget lost.
a fitness enthusiast and content creator whose YouTube channel is dedicated to workouts for larger bodies
If youre in a larger body and want to try Pilates for yourself, look for a support person.
By speaking up, you may just encourage Pilates classes to become more accommodating for others, too.
To me, a Pilates body isnt a look, its a behavior, Strobel says.
If youve got a body and youre practicing Pilates, congratulationsyou have a Pilates body.
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