Do Plus Size Models Work Out

Plus size models spot quite unique features from the regular-sized models. They have thicker and curvier silhouettes and are larger in most proportions. So do plus size models actually work out? Or are they naturally large and beautiful? Stick around for these answers and more!

There is not one professional model in the world that does not work out. Plus size models are no exception. They work as hard and regularly as other smaller-bodied models. They work out to feel and look good always!

When it comes to the workout regimen of plus size women, many aspects are misunderstood. A lot of assumptions linger and also a lot of lies are told. When you think about it, you would not expect plus size models to have a rigorous workout regimen. Quite frankly, the average person may not even expect that they have a workout regimen at all. The basic reason behind this premise and assumption is that ‘if they worked out, why are they big in the first place?’

Being Plus Size and Active

Many people think that bigger girls are inactive, completely unhealthy, and simply don’t care about their bodies. In most cases, our weight is linked to our persona; our character, abilities, strengths, weaknesses, tendencies and, our very being. Simply being big, tells a lot about you in today’s society. And unfortunately, these simplistic and prejudicial views still continue as the order of the day.

When plus size models came onto the fashion scene, there was a lot of backlash and spite from more conservative and traditionalist groups in the fashion industry. But once these women proved that they too can be equally competitive and gorgeous, the hissing and detest towards them somewhat subsided. However, once these ladies began to attest that they actually lead very vibrant and active lives, there were numerous question marks on people’s faces. It seemed like they were asking people to believe the unbelievable. Their fans, critics to newly converted believers of plus size fashion needed tangible proof that this was the case, especially, because these plus size models actually retained their flattering big curvy frames.

A popular misconception that ought to be debunked is that working out makes you lose weight. We are so accustomed to this notion that we do not see the falsehood in it. TV fitness commercials, ads, social media fitness campaigns all tend to reinforce this notion. How many times have you seen a fitness ad that the lady/guy in the film actually remained the same size? I can tell you for sure NEVER! Fitness and working out, in general, has been so associated with losing weight and becoming smaller till that’s what we think about and assume things to be, especially for women.

Fortunately, there is a lot of scientific evidence that goes to show that losing weight is just but one of the numerous benefits that working out can afford you. And surprisingly, it’s not mandatory. Studies show that people can work out and remain relatively the same size while still being stronger, faster, happier, more flexible, and generally healthier. You don’t have to drop a ton of pounds for you to be healthy. Stick thin is not the embodiment of fitness neither is body size the central factor that dictates health and wellbeing. And we got plus size models to thank for proving this!

Several plus size models have taken to post videos of their workout sessions and boy it isn’t chic and gentle. You can see the likes of Ashley Graham and Iskra Lawrence do some vigorous sweaty and just downright hard routines that the average person will find difficult. Their body size is not a hindrance in any way, whether their workout entails boxing, martial arts, cardio, weight training, you name it. These girls can move as quickly and accurately as the trainer. They are big and fit.

Why do Plus size Models Work Out

Modeling is a competitive and demanding career. Women all over the world are trying to make it big as models – plus size or otherwise. There is barely any room for error when it comes to looking the part. A model has to be in tip-top shape always, especially body-wise. Since modeling has a lot to do with looks rather than personality, gifting, or ability, models have to invest in their appearance. This means eating right, frequent visits to the salon, and working out. Training is not a luxury but a necessity in this line of work.

Contrary to what you may expect, plus size models are motivated by a set of different and unique factors when it comes to their workout disciplines. They do not attend the gym religiously or work out at home to lose weight and become smaller. It’s not about fitting into a particular pair of jeans or dress size. It’s not about trying to look like some other woman whom they admire and look up to.

If it’s not about all these, what then?

1.    Me First!

Plus size models do not work out to conform to a particular body image, no matter how celebrated and idolized it may be. They are all about self-acceptance, self-care, and body positivity. By the time you are a professional plus size model, strutting on the runway, or are on the cover of famous magazines and publications, you really need to have done a lot of introspection. The fashion industry has for the longest time been hostile to plus size women. Navigating through the ridicule, prejudice, and hate will need you to be accepting of how you look and how ‘big’ you are in comparison to the other models. Let’s face it, plus size models have either had to overcome the ‘size factor’ or break under it!

The majority of the renowned plus size models have had to deal with the pressure to conform, but the reason they are still plus size and trail-blazing in the modeling industry is that they embraced themselves for who they are and focused on unearthing their full potential in modeling. What this means is that you will hardly find professional models working out to look like some beauty ideal or to fit particular measurements, no way. They work out for themselves. To feel good, strong and healthy, period.

2.    To Inspire Others

Many plus size models are very vocal about their workout regimen and encourage others to follow suit and actually take care of themselves in that manner. Many larger-bodied women are constantly body shaming themselves or feel intimidated to step into a public fitness facility or a gym nearby. They live in constant fear of the stigma and hostility they might experience. However, plus size models show that it is indeed possible. It is possible to be brave to enroll in a gym and diligently attend the sessions despite the snares and glares from others. It is possible to be fast, quick, and efficient as other participants. It is possible to enjoy working out and have fun while at it.

These simple yet powerful gestures make the world of difference. It motivates and rallies others towards the same goals and standards. Similar plus size women get motivated to lead more active and healthy lifestyles. And their attitudes towards working out and eating right are positively shaped and reinforced.

How do They Work Out?

Again, it’s not just why they work out that makes plus size models different from other models but also how they do it. There has to be an appreciation of the diversity at play when it comes to fitness. There are those who are more fit and flexible than others and can do more tedious routines. There are also those on the other extreme end, who are not as strong or have less endurance when it comes to training. This does not go to say that there is a better party than the other but simply that there are those who have progressed with time.

Plus size models are aware that they may not be the fastest, or strongest in the gym. In some cases, they may actually be the slowest in the pack, but that does not matter. It never deters them. How exactly do they do it? Here’s how:

• They Compete with Themselves

While in the gym or out running, hiking, swimming, or taking a yoga class, there is constant pressure to try to keep up with others. In most cases, we try our best to not be the last, the slowest or the one who cannot perform a particular maneuver. However subconscious this instinct is, it is quite defeatist as it pits you against the others. Plus size models understand that the playing field is not equal! And it does not have to.

Learning how to allow yourself to progress as opposed to expecting instantaneous results is a key virtue in all plus size models. You are up against yourself, no one else. So stop trying to outdo the newcomer or someone else in the gym who looks less or equally fit compared to you. Instead, try to do better than you did last time.

• They Encourage Themselves

If there is ever one person who can always encourage you in life in any place, every day, that’s you. Plus size models look for motivation and inspiration from within and not from others. Of course, having a close and caring community around you is important but it does not take away from your role to encourage yourself. Cheer yourself on. Congratulate yourself when you do better or even when you make the effort. Be kind to yourself and allow yourself to grow.

Rarely will you find plus size models working out as a team. In most of their posts on their social media pages, they work out alone unless they are in a general aerobics class and the like. Instead of beating themselves up when they do not complete a set, they are kind to themselves and simply encourage themselves to do better next time. That’s the attitude of winners; self-encouragement.

•  They Set Realistic and Measurable Goals

This does not mean that plus size models do the least difficult of exercises. It means that they won’t try to push themselves beyond a particular point when at a given growth level. They are not over-achievers who set unrealistic goals for themselves, rather they pace themselves and set realistic goals.

Goal setting is important especially when it comes to working out. It helps you measure progress and is useful in giving you a sense of purpose or meaning for working out. Goal setting also helps you to gradually reach beyond your comfort zone and do more than what you expected you could do.  Once they set their goals they consistently work towards them and track progress.

• They Reward Their Progress

This also boils down to being kind towards oneself. Several plus size models have admitted to treating themselves to one of their cravings especially if they have accomplished a goal. You can find several instaphotos of famous plus size models treating themselves to chocolate desserts, pizzas, and various other ‘not so healthy but extremely delicious’ cuisine. Some even travel to places they love or buy themselves a pair of shoes, a handbag, and the like, simply to reward themselves and encourage consistency in certain disciplines – especially working out.  

Conclusion

Of the many lessons we can draw from the numerous plus size models who work out, the greatest would be attitude. Believing in yourself, being kind to yourself, and honest with yourself. These beautiful women have trodden on a path that many would not find delightful but have emerged victorious from all the despise, stigma, and hate hurled at them. They delight in working out for themselves and have shown that plus size women can be fit.