How To Build A Positive Body Image
Here at Instant Knockout, we know that everyone is born different and not everybody looks the same.
The trouble is, when you’re bombarded daily with images of supposed ‘perfection’ – from perfect physiques to perfect lives – you’re constantly questioning if this is something you must live up to. Let us tell you – it’s not!
Statistics reveal that 70% of women between the ages of 18-30 dislike their bodies1. Men feel much the same too, with insecurity most prevalent at 40 to 452. So if you ever feel low about your body, you should know you’re not alone.
However, it’s possible to take steps to defend yourself against the onslaught of perfection and realize that your most valuable weapon is to develop a positive body image. That means celebrating your individuality and realizing that being real equals confidence.
In this article, we take a closer look at body image, tips on how to maintain a positive attitude with your body and how Instant Knockout can motivate you to get that extra few percent improvement that’ll recover body confidence. There’s a reason we’re the #1 training partner to thousands of people worldwide!
By the end, you’ll be well equipped to build up that body image and feel confident in your own skin.
What is body image?
When you look in the mirror, how do you feel? The feeling you get, whether it’s positive or negative, is body image. It’s how you think and feel about yourself physically and how you think others might see you.
For most people, it’s not always about weight. It can be a struggle to accept your figure for how it looks as well as feeling influenced by the men and women you see on social media and the TV.
Don’t worry, it’s absolutely normal to have these feelings. What you can do to deter them is practice new thought patterns to improve your mood and feel better about the body that’s naturally yours. Keep reading to discover more about developing a positive body image.
Positive vs negative body image
If you have a positive body image, you’re aware of your natural body and value its individuality. You’re much more comfortable in your skin. You’re less likely to pay attention to or be afflicted by images, slogans or attitudes that are strewn across social media and television. You understand that you don’t have to be an Instagram fitness model to achieve that ideal level of body confidence.
A negative body image arises when someone feels like their body does match up to what society or the media expect. If you struggle with negative body image, you may compare yourself to others regularly and feel awkward or self-conscious. Most of the time, it’s likely that you have an unrealistic view of your physique.
How can you overcome these feelings and start feeling more confident in your body? It’s not something that can be done automatically, we know that. But there are ways to improve your thinking to improve feelings about your figure.
Keep reading to discover our best tips and start building a positive body image now.
How to build a positive body image
Tip #1 – Appreciate all that your body can do
Your body is amazing and helps you do all the things you enjoy. From lifting barbells in the gym to laughing or running, it all wouldn’t be possible without your body.
When you’re exercising, why not make notes of what your body can achieve? Whether that’s hitting a personal best in the squat rack or feeling stronger and faster, only you can tell how your body feels.
Feel it and achieve the empowerment you need for a positive body image. Remember, it’s the only body you have and it deserves nurturing. So own your dimples and dints and appreciate your body for all it can do!
Tip #2 – Make a list of 10 things you like about yourself
Grab a notebook and list 10 qualities you like about yourself – which may or may not have anything to do with what you actually look like.
Think about what you’re good at and what your body helps you to do every day. Read your list daily and refer back to it every time you have a negative thought about your body. The more you look at your list, the more comfortable you’ll become with your natural physique.
Tip #3 – Exercise to feel happy, not just lose weight
Exercise does more than bring physical benefits – it’s a literal mood booster! In fact, exercise is said to be just as effective as anti-depressants, increases energy levels and helps you get a good night’s sleep3.
Resistance training and weightlifting in particular can have a positive effect on your mindset – as little as two days a week can help reduce low mood and depressive symptoms4. If you don’t feel comfortable hitting up the gym, don’t worry we have you covered. Our guide to the best bodyweight exercises will help you train in the comfort of your own home.
Tip #4 – Have a social media refresh
If you keep seeing images of unrealistic bodies popping up on your feed, why not remove them from your social media? Extensive research suggests that social media negatively affects people’s perceptions of their body image and may trigger negative feelings5.
Cutting these idealistic images, attitudes and slogans from your social media should help improve a positive mindset about your body.
Tip #5 – Surround yourself with positive people
Make sure your friends promote positivity and help you feel good about yourself. Surround yourself with encouraging friends and family who recognize you for who you are.
It’s much simpler to feel good about yourself and your body when you have friends who are fun to be around, don’t bring you down and only want the best for you.
People who project negativity won’t help. They’ll only fuel your own damaging thoughts about yourself.
Tip #6 – Wear clothes that you’re comfortable in
Work with your body and discover a style that you feel most comfortable in. Clothes that make you feel good in your body will encourage positive thoughts and self-confidence.
Try to avoid uncomfortable clothes just because you think it looks good – if there’s no room for lunch, it’s not going to make you feel great.
Shop your right size and remember the label is irrelevant when it comes to positive body image.
Tip #7 – Compliment others freely
Giving a compliment is a serious mood and positivity booster! Not only is it great for the recipient but it can enhance your own sense of wellbeing and improve relationships.
Delivering positive effects to others can ramp up a positive atmosphere too. This also opens you up to be kinder to yourself – seeing the good in ourselves cultivates confidence and helps you realize we’re all the same.
Remember, it doesn’t have to be a compliment about someone’s appearance. Instead, praise someone for their character or actions.
The bottom line
Loving your body is possible if you take small steps to boost positivity and embrace it. If you’ve spent a lot of time being down on your body, it’s time to switch things up and start loving yourself for everything you are.
Take some of these tips on board and you’ll soon start to make productive changes in your thought patterns and finally have that positive body confidence!
Want some extra help with your physique? Instant Knockout Cut is for you
Need a boost of motivation? Or want to defy expectations and discover your greatness within? Instant Knockout Cut is made for you. Since 2014, it’s been the training partner to multiple pro athletes, helping them manage their weight and provide all the nutrients they need to become unstoppable. And it’s now available for you.
Its powerful thermogenic profile ensures total body burn and next-level energy for higher powered workouts and training sessions. Better yet, there’s no risk of jitters or energy slumps with the clever stimulating combo of L-theanine and caffeine.
Instant Knockout Cut is the training partner you’ve been waiting for. It will make a difference you can see and offers up the opportunity you’ve been waiting for: To enjoy a whole new level of a positive body image.
