ESPN Annual Body Issue

It's finally here, the release of the annual ESPN Magazine Body Issue. This is one of my favorite's because it showcases a variety of athletes and body types and there are always a few that may be controversial. This year it's Amanda Bingson. She weighs in at around 200 pounds, and bares all for ESPN and for girls everywhere.

 

Bingson is an Olympic Hammer Thrower as a member of USA's Track & Field team

In Bingson's interview for ESPN, she said that being a part of the magazine shows that athletes come in all shapes and sizes. And while some might be repulsed at the sight of her, or think she is unworthy of being in a magazine, I am amazed by her.

"Generally when you look at athletes, you see their muscles and all that stuff; I don't have any of that. My arm is just my arm -- it's not cut, it's not sculpted. I don't have traps bulging out to my ears; I have a neck. I don't have a six-pack. My legs are a little toned, but they aren't bulging out. I'm just dense."

 It's great to see someone who has been successful and hasn't let her size or lack of a "perfect" body get in the way. She is a true role model. She believes in herself and accepts herself. Bingson believes in using your body to its advantages, knowing your strengths and weaknesses and working towards what is good for yourself.

"I'll be honest, I like everything about my body"

 I can't stress enough that we all have different body types and that we have to learn to love ourselves. Yes, with the right diet and exercise program, we can alter our bodies to certain extents. But if you have belly fat, so what? You could still have a strong core underneath. If you have big legs, why be ashamed of them? I'll admit, I hated my thighs for years on end because they weren't long or slim, but now I embrace them because they are strong. They are big, they are muscular, and that's better than standing on toothpicks.

"Whatever your body type is, just use it. There are definitely things that I can do that skinnier people can't do. But then there are things that skinnier people do that I'll never be able to do, like run a marathon. There's just no way that will ever happen."

 Find an activity or exercise program you enjoy. Set goals for yourself and no one else. Do what works for you, and do what makes you happy.  Use your body to your advantage. It's yours. Own it.