November’s Women’s Running magazine is the first ever to feature a “plus-size” runner on the cover in the awesome Lindsey Swift. Her open letter to the van driver who heckled her while she was out running went viral after she posted it on Facebook, and it was shared by thousands of other women who could also relate- read the full letter here.
While I think it’s sad that this is the first time a “larger lady” has appeared on the cover of a fitness magazine – how has it taken so long?! I’d love to see more everyday women rather than models on the front of these publications – it is great to make people aware of the situation that a lot of women face.
According to research commissioned as part of the This Girl Can campaign, millions of women fear doing any kind of exercise because they’re afraid of being judged.
And if you do persuade yourself to make it out the door, a thoughtlessly hurled word can complete ruin that runner’s high and sense of personal achievement.
In the past I’ve had comments thrown at me when I was out running – when I first started I used a run/walk method as part of the Couch to 5k programme and would often get told by passing drivers to “stop walking” or “keep running”. Now I know that doesn’t sound too bad compared to what I’ve heard some people have suffered, and in a race setting would probably be quite encouraging, but really why anyone should feel they have a right to comment at all is beyond me!
Still, it didn’t stop me running. And I think that is the message that Lindsey wanted to share when she wrote her letter. Not to let those small-minded people put you off from achieving what you want to achieve – to take pride in your accomplishments, and do them for you.
Running is such a great community, such an inclusive sport. I’ve met so many awesome people through my running experiences, who have supported me along the way and given me some great fun memories.
We should be celebrating anyone who decides to get more active, discover a new sport and make themselves feel awesome about their body, whatever shape or size. I may not be super skinny, and am more than a little self conscious about my stomach, but I’m also incredibly proud of what I have achieved – from asthmatic non-runner to four half marathons, a duathlon, trail races and many more!
Let’s keep telling each other that “This Girl Can” and sod those lazy white van drivers…
“If my fat arse running…offends you and spoils your journey, try driving with your eyes closed – into a lamp post.” Lindsey Swift
Have you ever had comments whilst out running? How did you deal with them? What do you think about a “plus size” runner on the cover of a fitness magazine?
Beki x
I am provided with a subscription to Women’s Running through the magazine.co.uk blogger programme- you can sign up for your subscription here.
