BY: Roxanne Francois

The look of health is changing right before our eyes. Today, it’s not just in to be thin, but also to feel good in your skin. While for years, women have been preoccupied with having the “perfect size,” the most recent trends now focus on developing a program of weight management through exercise, healthy eating and active living. This recent focus is especially welcome news for plus-sized women, many of whom have struggled with concepts of body image for much of their lives.

Louise Greene, founder of Vancouver’s Plus Size Body Exchange, has found a way to change the negative attitude that many associate with exercise. “I’ve created a Fearless Fitness Boot camp to improve confidence and body image for Plus Sized individuals who are intimidated by exercise,” says Green.

The goal of Greene and trainers like her is to dispel the myth that all women with curves are unhealthy. Through her class, Greene makes women aware of the fact that skinny doesn’t equal healthy. The myth continues to spiral down the drain when bigger women show up with more energy, stamina and core strength than participants who weigh less.

“If people walk in with only weight loss in mind, I let them know that I am not selling weight loss.” Green insists, “I would have to follow you home and control your eating in that case. Teaching exercise in a soft and progressive way around other plus-sized individuals helps participants regain confidence.”

As for quick fixes and reality TV shows where contestants shed weight in relatively short timeframes, Greene dismisses their tactics and long-term viability. “Reality fitness shows use scare tactics to make you lose weight, showing you what can happen to you if you don’t lose the weight.” Greene insists: “Instead, focus on the positives of working out and getting fit through attainable goals.”

For more information on options, fitness plans connected to the new plus size revolution, and Louise Greene’s Plus Size Body Exchange, bodyexchange.ca