Strong is the New Skinny

via Pinterest

Are you a Pinterest addict? (It happens to the best of us.) I’ve recently noticed that I can’t browse through the Fitness category without encountering the barrage of “thinspo,” or thinspiration pins: photos of very thin girls—often accompanied by words of encouragement (for example, “Nothing tastes as good as skinny feels”). The user-generated captions usually say something like “I wish I looked like this” or “this is my goal.”

First of all, this is not fitness. It’s an unrealistic ideal that’s making otherwise rational girls think societal standards are worth hurting their bodies for. Idolizing a generally unobtainable body type takes a toll on self-esteem and self worth. We should be looking up to women who are fit, not Photoshopped.

Ladies, you really need to watch this video—it might even change your perspective on the advertising industry and the way you view women in the media.

P.S. Send us links to your fitness pinboards—we love seeing strong, healthy women as your inspiration!