In a world that often imposes particular beauty standards, cultivating body confidence is an empowering act of self-love and resistance. For LGBTQ+ individuals, this journey can be particularly challenging due to the additional layers of societal pressure and discrimination. However, strength training and fitness offer powerful tools to help embrace your unique self, providing both physical and mental well-being.

Understanding Body confidence and it’s history

It’s important to understand the history of the “Body positivity” movement and ensure that we do our part to be aware of the white washing often seen and acknowledge those that we have to thank for the progress made.

The body positivity movement traces its roots back to the fat acceptance movement of the 1960s, which was initially formed by a group of fat, queer Black women. At its core, this movement was a fat liberation initiative aimed at creating a space for marginalized bodies.

This activism was inspired by the leadership seen in the Civil Rights movement and other equality and freedom struggles. Mainstream fat activism, however, was often associated with the National Association to Advance Fat Acceptance (NAAFA). They frequently excluded the voices of People of Colour. This was based on a belief that addressing multiple issues simultaneously might “dilute their message”, coupled with the misconception that communities of color were “more accepting of fat individuals”, thus not needing fat activism. This resulted in the marginalisation of entire groups within an important movement aimed at helping marginalised people.

Jumping forward, the movement was driven by larger, plus-sized Black women at the start of 2012 who utilized platforms like Tumblr and Facebook to create spaces where they could discuss how their identities led to unequal treatment and lack of respect.

These discussions highlighted the intersections of race, size, and sexuality, and why society often views these intersections negatively. The progress made within the body positivity movement owes a great deal to the efforts of Black, queer women. If you’d like to read more on this topic we recommend the following publications which you can borrow from the SLAM Library or find online.

Fearing the Black Body: The Racial Origins of Fat Phobia by Sabrina Strings

Fat Is A Feminist Issue by Susie Orbach

Fattily Ever After: A Black Fat Girl's Guide to Living Life Unapologetically by Stephanie Yeboah

The Intersection of LGBTQ+ Identity and Body Image

Within the LGBTQ+ community, we frequently face unique challenges related to body image. These challenges can include the pressure to conform to gender norms, the impact of hormone therapy on body composition, and the influence of mainstream culture, which often idolizes a specific body type. Understanding these nuances is crucial for promoting a body-positive approach to fitness.

Strength Training: A Path to Empowerment

Strength training is more than just a means to achieve a certain physique; it is a journey of empowerment and self-discovery. Here’s how it can help promote body confidence:

1. Building Confidence

• Strength training empowers you to set and achieve personal goals, fostering a sense of accomplishment. Feeling your body grow stronger and more capable can massively boost your confidence.

2. Focusing on Function Over Form

• Unlike many forms of fitness that emphasize appearance, strength training focuses on what your body CAN do. Celebrating the capabilities of your body, rather than its appearance, can shift your perspective and promote a healthier relationship with your body.

3. Creating a Supportive Community

• Many gyms and fitness communities are increasingly recognizing the importance of inclusivity. Finding a supportive environment where you can share your journey with like-minded individuals can reinforce body confidence and provide a sense of belonging.

4. Releasing Stress and Improving Mental Health

• Physical activity, including strength training, is known to release endorphins, which can alleviate stress and improve mood.

5. Practice Self-Compassion

• Be kind to yourself. Recognize that everyone’s fitness journey is unique, and it’s okay to have ups and downs. Celebrate your progress and practice self-compassion on challenging days. If you talk to yourself in a negative tone, ask yourself. Would you talk to a friend in that way?

Celebrating Your Unique Self

Embracing body confidence through strength training is about celebrating what makes you unique. It’s about recognizing that your worth is not defined by societal standards but by your own journey and accomplishments. For LGBTQ+ individuals, this means rejecting harmful stereotypes and embracing your authentic self in all its diversity and strength.

By focusing on what your body can achieve, finding supportive communities, and practicing self-compassion, you can foster a positive body image and help empower others to do the same. Strength training is not just about building muscles; it’s about building a stronger, more confident, and resilient you.