I first heard about Louise Green a couple of months ago when she did an incredible TED Talk about athleticism at every size. Now, she is even more recognized internationally as a curve athlete, motivating trainer and outspoken advocate for women of all sizes to take care of their bodes.
She is the founder of Body Exchange, a no-shame fitness center, but also hosts international fitness retreats and does a ton of advocacy work to reach out to women. Her motto “Fearless Fitness and No Limits Living” has motivated thousands of woman across the world to not let society’s opinions affect their own body positivity.
One of my personal favorite things about her, is that she actually tests out workout gear and tools and gives great advice on how to do workouts at home, or with little to no experience. She’s quick to call out people for assuming you can’t do certain workouts if you’re a certain size, and teaches practical ways to find wellness for yourself.
And she continues to speak up about the body image pressures that come with working out as a curve woman. In an interview with Refinery 29 she said, “Until fitness media and advertising dare to show these bodies, it’s up to you and I. Being seen as a plus size athlete isn’t just about inspiring people of size. It’s also about showing society that body diversity exists in athleticism. It broadens the scope of what it means to be an athlete. What we see at those finish lines changes our very concept of the athletic ideal. I began as a woman full of fear, outside the running club. Now, I’m leading others to their own athletic glory. There’s one thing I know for sure: Seeing big bodies in our visual landscape has the power to profoundly change lives. I will never stop encouraging women to be bold and show up in their bigger bodies. Owning who you are and surrendering the fight for thinness at any cost is the best thing you can do for yourself. It’s certainly the best thing I’ve ever done for myself.” If that’s not motivation, I don’t know what is.
