Learn how regular exercise can positively impact your body image, enhance self-esteem, and contribute to better overall physical and mental health. Discover the science-backed benefits of maintaining an active lifestyle and how you can use exercise to cultivate a healthier body image.

Key takeaways

• Regular exercise may lead to an improved body image, enhancing self-esteem and contributing to mental wellbeing.
• Exercise doesn't just improve physical fitness; it can also increase self-appreciation through goal setting and achievement.
• Adopting a healthier mindset, away from focusing on physical appearance to enjoying the exercise itself, can help with body image.
• Exercise environments should be supportive and welcoming, facilitating a positive relationship with physical activity.

Body image, the perception and attitude one has towards their physical self, plays a vital role in our lives. This personal perspective affects how we think about ourselves, influencing our mental health, self-esteem, and even our inclination towards physical activity.

Recognising body image concerns

Research has found that more than 1 in 3 Australians have body image concerns, and 73% wish they could change the way they look. So if this is you, know you are not alone.

Awareness is the first step towards addressing body image concerns. Some signs to look out for that may indicate a negative body image include:

• Negative self-talk: consistent self-deprecating remarks about your body or comparing oneself unfavourably to others.
• A preoccupation with your appearance: behaviours such as constantly checking the mirror, or severe distress about perceived physical flaws.
• Avoidance: avoiding activities that involve showing your body, such as going to the beach, or refraining from physical activities due to embarrassment or fear of judgement.
• Extremes in exercise and diet: engaging in extreme dieting, disordered eating behaviours, or excessive exercise in an attempt to change your body.

If you identify these signs in yourself or someone else, it's important to seek help from a mental health professional. Remember, everyone deserves to feel good about their body, and getting the help you need is a significant step in that direction.

The link between body image and exercise

The connection between exercise and body image is more profound than just physical changes. When you exercise regularly, it can lead to several psychological benefits that positively impact your body image and mental health.

Exercise isn't about changing your appearance. It's about the feeling of strength, achievement, and the gratification that comes with completing a workout. Regular exercise can enhance your body image by improving physical fitness and strength, and it also works as a tool for self-appreciation when you achieve set fitness goals. These factors can raise self-confidence and reinforce a positive body image, leading to a positive cycle of exercise and improved perception of self.

Regular exercise can not only improve your body image, but can have many mental health benefits too. The mental health benefits of exercise include:

• Improved mood: regular physical activity triggers the release of endorphins which produce feelings of happiness and relaxation, improving your overall mood.
• Reduced stress and anxiety: exercise has been shown to help reduce stress and anxiety levels. A calmer state of mind can help reduce the negative self-talk that often comes with these conditions.
• Improved self-efficacy: engaging in exercise allows you to set and achieve goals, contributing to a sense of accomplishment and control.
• Body awareness and mindfulness: many forms of exercise encourage mindfulness and a stronger connection with your body. This can help to promote acceptance and gratitude for your body's capabilities.

Improving body image through exercise

Incorporating exercise into your routine is a great addition to your positive self-talk journey, and there are many ways you can ease yourself in.

Tips to adding more exercise into your routine include:

• Choose supportive and welcoming environments to exercise.
• Remember that you have the right to exercise, just like everyone else — exercise is not exclusive to any particular body type or physical appearance.
• Wear clothes that make you feel good and comfortable when exercising.
• Workout with a friend to make the experience more enjoyable.
• Instead of focusing on physical changes, try to enjoy the process, such as the joy of movement, increased energy, and the feeling of accomplishment.
• Follow a broad range of people on social media who promote a positive relationship with exercise. Seeing diverse body types engaged in exercise can normalise that everybody, irrespective of shape and size, can and should engage in physical activity.
• Find exercise you enjoy and would feel disappointed if you couldn’t get there rather than exercise you feel you “should be doing”.

Engaging in exercise in a manner that you love can significantly empower your health journey. If you're seeking more support in this area, consider consulting with your GP, psychologist, or counsellor.

Here at Vively, we understand the importance of exercise for both physical health and mental wellbeing. Our app is designed to help you take charge of your metabolic health, which includes maintaining regular exercise routines that can aid in glucose control. In turn, consistent exercise, coupled with better glucose control, can contribute to an improved body image. Vively is here to support your journey towards embracing your body and achieving your health goals.