Best Body Positive Influencers To Follow In 2019

Namita Nayyar (WF Team)

6 years ago

I can’t think of any better representation of beauty than someone who is unafraid to be herself.”

– Emma Stone

Influencers, actors, models and celebrities from all walks of lives are voicing their opinions about the importance of body inclusivity in all industries. They are playing a major role in changing the beauty standards that the fashion and style industry has been following since time immemorial. To give our Women Fitness readers a head start for 2019, we bring to you an exclusive list of the top body positive influencers that you must follow in 2019!

1. Lornalitz Baez

Photographer- Matt Sayles Makeup- Jackie Romero Hair- CurlyChic

Plus-size Model

Instagram: @lornalitz

1. What does Body Positivity mean to you?

Body Positivity means for me, when I Love my body at the size it’s currently at. Throughout my life, my weight has fluctuated up and down and now after having my first child I noticed a new change; some new mommy curves I am loving. I have come to accept and love my body at every weight/size because I am not going to allow anything impact my Happiness. Not even a number on the scale!

2. 3 tips or tricks to boost your self confidence.

My tips or tricks are really simple but works for me, so hope it works for you.

I get dressed up for the Hubby just because. No reason sometimes. I like to see his eyes light up and it’s a good reminder that his wife is a Hottie.
I treat myself to a massage, mani, pedi, facials, champagne and good food because I deserve to.
I work out 3 – 4 times a week, however I can, whether its Spin class, Zumba, Cross fit or just a stroll with the baby around the park. Working out is a mood regulator for me.

3. All-time favourite quote.

I have more than one favorite quote. One favorite is:

“Keep your face always toward the Sunshine – and shadows will fall behind you “ ~ Walt Whitman

4. Where do you see the #bodypositive movement this year?

#Bodypositive movement has come a long way but I hope to see more representation for every single size, not just Plus size. There is a huge market of “In – between sizes” that are under represented. I just feel when we say “Size Inclusive” should mean inclusive of every size.

5. Fitness Goals for 2019?

I am on it. Actually I never come off my fitness goal; which is to keep my body toned and healthy, eat right with a cheat day here and there, Have fun while I am at it. I do not put too much pressure on myself. Not worth the stress. I am too blessed!

2. Rini Frey

Body Positive Lifestyle & Fitness Influencer

Instagram: @ownitbabe

1. What does Body Positivity mean to you?

To me, Body Positivity means that we accept and appreciate bodies of all shapes and sizes and that we treat them equally with respect, support and love, regardless of what they look like. All bodies are good bodies and all bodies deserve equality and respect.

2. 3 tips or tricks to boost your self confidence.

Practice gratitude. Write down 3 things your body does for you on a daily basis and why you’re grateful for that, i.e. “I am grateful for my legs for carrying me from A to B and for allowing me to walk, drive, run, move and see the world.”
Stop giving your power away to other people’s opinions. Focus on what YOU want out of your life and what is important to YOU and take action on that.
Don’t be afraid to set boundaries for yourself. Say “no” more and take care of your own needs first and foremost. We cannot pour from an empty cup.

3. All-time favourite quote.

“I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”~ Maya Angelou

4. Where do you see the #bodypositive movement this year?

My hopes are that more people will start talking about the importance of all bodies being treated equally and that weight loss isn’t the end all be all to health. It’s more about practicing healthful behaviours regardless of what your body looks like.

5. Fitness Goals for 2019?

Continuing to make exercise part of my mental health and self care routine, so that I will continue to feel stronger, not just physically but especially mentally. Being able to move my body is a gift and a blessing that I don’t take for granted anymore.

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3. Sassy Gregson-Williams

Founder of Naturally Sassy, Ballerina & Cookbook Author

Instagram: @naturally.sassy

1. What does Body Positivity mean to you?

To me Body Positivity is all about accepting and loving the skin you’re in, and knowing you do not need to change yourself for anyone, but you.

2. 3 tips or tricks to boost your self confidence.

Get rid of that picture perfect body you are striving for and re-set your goal. Don’t see yourself in a bikini walking down the beach, but instead imagine your body running the marathon, deadlifting a 100kg weight or reaching the splits. Be ambitious with your body, and set your goal in strength.
Monitor your mindset. This means changing the conversation when that negative self-talk creeps in. It’s going to happen, and it’s your job to re-route the outcome.
Take pride in the way your body can move and move it. Connecting with your body through a powerful workout or a gentle stretch.

3. All-time favourite quote.

“Success isn’t about how your life looks to others – it’s about how it feels to you”~ Michelle Obama

4. Where do you see the #bodypositive movement this year?

I hope to see Body Positive embrace both men and women equally. I think there’s been some really empowering campaigns led by brands including diverse women with diverse body types, and I’d like to see that replicated with men too.

5. Fitness Goals for 2019?

My goal is to climb mount Kilimanjaro, wish me luck!

4. Nikki Pebbles

Fit Professional & Life Coach

Instagram: @nikkipebbles

1. What does Body Positivity mean to you?

Body Positivity means the representation of ALL body types and giving a voice to those that aren’t traditionally seen in the media. For me, body positivity is the act of loving one’s body AND mind through the ups, the downs, the changes, and the progress. Body positivity is a community where we are MORE than just our bodies; we are smart, ambitious, and radical. Being your most authentic self is my true definition of being #BodyPositive.

2. 3 tips or tricks to boost your self confidence.

MOVE YOUR BODY: When I’m feeling self-conscious or in a funk, I make it a POINT to either dance, take a walk, or lift weights. There is something about movement that makes me feel powerful and reminds me that I AM in control. Plus, doesn’t a good dance sesh with Beyonce blasting in the background make EVERYTHING better?
TALK TO A FRIEND: Whether its a bestie or your therapist (Therapy is LIFE), speak to someone who will LIFT YOU UP and brag on you for all that you’ve accomplished. Sometimes, we just need a little reminder and boost from someone else that you are AWESOME.
GO OUTSIDE YOUR COMFORT ZONE: Self-confidence is like a muscle, you have to keep working it out to see it grow. I make it a point to work out my confidence muscle every day by trying tasks that seem outside my comfort zone. It PROVES that I can accomplish things I never thought I could and gives my mind proof that I am making progress daily.

3. All-time favourite quote.

“She silently stepped out of the race that she never wanted to be in, found her own lane & proceeded to win”

4. Where do you see the #bodypositive movement this year?

I see the #Bodypositive movement reaching new heights this year because we are seeing more diversity and representation throughout the media. What is so beautiful about this movement, however, is that we can use social media as our way to speak with our own voices and opinions without big brand support. WE can shake the system and create the type of content we DESERVE to see. Our voices are JUST starting to be heard and its time to get ever LOUDER!

5. Fitness Goals for 2019?

My fitness goals for 2019 are super simple: To continue to maintain a BALANCED lifestyle and movement plan while always checking in with my mental wellness. Physical fitness is JUST as important as mental fitness. Lastly, a huge goal of mine for 2019 is to complete a tough mudder! I feel SUPER intimated by it, which makes me want to accomplish it even more!

5. Sylvia Nasser

Certified Personal Trainer & Group Fitness Instructor at Equinox

Instagram: @thefitfem

1. What does Body Positivity mean to you?

Body Positivity means focusing on what your body can physically do without comparing your journey to those around you, or needing to be or look like someone else. I’ve let go of any judgements around the shape of my body and started to love it for its strength and abilities! In fact, being body positive isn’t about a look, it’s about attitude of self-love & confidence.

2. 3 tips or tricks to boost your self confidence.

Rocking the sports bra is obviously #1 while I exercise! My body positive campaign #irockthesportsbra has been really impactful for women all over the world to work out in their sports bra while feeling empowered, strong, and confident in the skin they are in. When I exercise in my sports bra I feel an unexplainable sense of freedom. I also like to align myself with others who are body positive. Whether it be in my classes, on social media or connecting with other influencers out there who are helping others to love themselves, it reminds me that I am not alone in my fight and connects me with an important and larger mission. I also make sure to incorporate activities into my day that makes me feel empowered. Boxing is the thing that makes me feel the most empowered!

3. All-time favourite quote.

“I love to see a young girl go out and grab the world by the lapels. Life’s a bitch. You’ve got to go out and kick ass.” ~ Maya Angelou

4. Where do you see the #bodypositive movement this year?

In the new year, I see the #bodypositive movement continuing to spread, not only among females of all ages but I also see men jumping on board and loving their bodies too. I see everyone embracing who they are as humans and self-love becoming more than just a trendy phrase.

5. Fitness Goals for 2019?

My biggest fitness goal is to add more sparring into my life! Hopefully I will get into the ring for a small boxing match this year—my 1^st one ever!

6. Rosie Mercado

Plus-size Model & Host of Face the Truth Talk Show

Instagram: @rosiemercado

1. What does Body Positivity mean to you?

I understand that a perfect body doesn’t exist but a healthy one does.

So, Body Positivity means loving myself through the ups and downs of life and not treating myself like a punching bag. I know I have the power of choice over my body, regardless of other people’s thoughts and opinions.

2. 3 tips or tricks to boost your self confidence.

Write 5 things I am grateful for in a gratitude journal daily.
Listen to music and dance.
Look inward for peace, not outward, through meditation.

3. All-time favourite quote.

“Through hard work, perseverance and a faith in God, you can live your dreams.” ~ Ben Carson

4. Where do you see the #bodypositive movement this year?

The #bodypositive movement is such a great opportunity for all different women to share their voices and authentic stories from different perspectives. The exciting thing is that the open forum of social media has driven more inclusivity and self-acceptance, and I hope 2019 will continue this movement. Whether it is weight loss or weight gain, it should always be a celebration of a woman’s body.

5. Fitness Goals for 2019?

In 2019 I plan to run my first 5k. Each year, I recommit to living a healthy, loving lifestyle.

7. Jenni + Mirna

Registered Holistic Nutritionists & Founders of Naughty Nutrition

Instagram: @naughtynutrition.co

1. What does Body Positivity mean to you?

When we think of body positivity, the biggest thing that stands out is having respect for yourself. Creating that positive relationship between your mindset towards your body, nourishing your body, and loving your body. It also means loving and respecting other bodies no matter the shape or size.

Even though we say love and respect, we also know that no relationship is perfect, so with body positivity comes an understanding that there may be days where you don’t feel 100% confident but those are temporary, not permanent.

2. 3 tips or tricks to boost your self confidence.

One of the biggest things that we see today that can have a negative effect on your self-confidence is the comparisons that we make to those on social media. Try to remember that social media doesn’t always accurately portray real life. We would even go as far as to recommend unfollowing certain people who have the tendency to make you lose your confidence.
Another way to boost self-confidence is through affirmations. It may sound weird, but convincing yourself that you are worthy can actually create a thought shift that turns those negative phrases we tell ourselves into positive ones. It’s time to flip that script and create a positive and affirming head space of worth, love and acceptance.
And one of our favourite ways as nutritionists to create self-confidence is to nourish your body. We often use food as a way to cover up our emotions, which creates a negative, guilt-induced cycle. Unfortunately it is hard to properly nourish yourself when you feel down on yourself, but using your affirmations of “my body deserves respect and nourishment” can help create healthier habits such as eating more whole foods, exercising and reducing your stress load, which in turn can create a boost of confidence, energy and increase those feelings of self-worth.

3. All-time favourite quote.

“And I said to my body softly, ‘I want to be your friend.’ It took a long breath and replied, ‘I have been waiting my whole life for this.’ ~ Nayyirah Waheed

4. Where do you see the #bodypositive movement this year?

We see more influencers, nutritionists, dietitians and MD’s making a shift to a more body positivity approach with their clients. We even hope to see some Instagram models adapt the approach and start speaking about it with their followers. We love that there is a movement starting to happen in the nutrition industry that discusses listening to your body’s natural hunger cues, and we really hope to see the idea of whole body nourishment let go of diet ideals, and talk more about mindset and intentions.

5. Fitness Goals for 2019?

Jenni – One of my biggest goals is to get into a handstand for at least 5 seconds. That being said, I’m not really one to create too many goals other than just getting to my mat on a regular basis. Being a mom to a 2 year old it’s not always easy, so carving out that time and making sure it remains a priority is something that I strive for.

Mirna – I used to believe in the ‘no pain, no gain’ rule when it came to exercise and I wasn’t listening to my body. Just like with food and listening to what my body is truly craving, I have started to tune into my body more when it comes to fitness and not push myself through the pain. And, for 2019 I would like to put more focus into activities such as yoga and pilates to build more core strength and flexibility.

8. Cary Williams

Olympic Level Boxing Coach, Former Fighter & Founder of Too Pretty

Instagram: @caryleewilliams

1. What does Body Positivity mean to you?

Body positive is feeling confident about how you look which usually comes from how you feel. A lot of this is mental and requires mental strength but we can all feel positive about our bodies! I remember when I was 40 pounds over weight and I initially felt uncomfortable. I knew that I did not want to feel that way and knew I was going to get that weight off. BUT, in the meantime I still felt confident because I made a point to work with that extra weight. I started to wear clothes that flattered my body and took the positive things about my body at the time and accentuated them. Once I felt confident, those around me started complimenting me. It is all how you exude confidence. Perception is reality.

2. 3 tips or tricks to boost your self confidence.

Look for all of your positive qualities and focus on them. Whether it was a compliment someone made or something you know you are great at, hold on to it and own it!
We all have to wear clothes, so go out and find outfits that flatter your physique. It could be your workout clothes or your work clothes. Clothes can really improve our self confidence if used in the right way.
Stay off of Instagram for at least one week and unfollow the “popular kids”. You will be amazed at how your confidence will improve and you will be focused to work on your personal growth.

3. All-time favourite quote.

My father said that life was like going up a down escalator. If you walk you stay in one place, if you stand still you move backwards, if you run you get a head!

4. Where do you see the #bodypositive movement this year?

The #bodypositive movement will continue to grow and more of us will begin to feel comfortable in our own skin. But, this will only happen if we stop comparing ourselves to all or the “pretty” people on social media. Do you and that is it!

5. Fitness Goals for 2019?

My personal fitness goals for 2019 are to get back to where my body was 5 years ago. It isn’t about weight appearance but I felt really strong and fit then and I want to get that feeling back. For me that means I have to incorporate more HIIT workouts but continue with my boxing and weight training.

9. Bevin Prince

Photo Credit: Jim Fryer / BrakeThrough Media

Actress & Senior SoulCycle Instructor

Instagram: @bevinaprince

1. What does Body Positivity mean to you?

Body positivity to me is a marriage. I am choosing to love and honor my incredible gift of a body every day. Like a marriage, some days I will fail, but I promise to recognize where I have sacrificed compassion and love for a toxic idea of perfection. I promise to treat my body with respect. I promise to choose my body over any other and try and support it no matter what life brings us. I know that we will never be perfect and I promise to dig deep to find the beauty in our imperfections. It’s you and me, babe.

2. 3 tips or tricks to boost your self confidence.

Don’t follow things on social media that do not make you feel good. If it doesn’t make you feel good to look at something online… then STOP. Surround yourself with positive people in real life and online. What you focus on grows, so be incredibly specific with how you are spending your time.
Let me be real, I want and like to look a certain way but my body, like life, fluctuates. So, during times when things aren’t how I personally prefer them, I focus on all the incredible things my body does for me. I find ways to move and play that inspire me, that feel good, that remind me of my strength. My body allows me to do what I love- SoulCycle every day, it gets me around the city, and it allows me to physically hold all the people close to me. The body ebbs and flows but it always shows up for me, even when I don’t show up for it.
For me, my body is a representation of my choices. I have never had visible abs and I don’t think I ever will. It’s not because I can’t. I’m sure if I changed my diet and put in a different kind of work then I could, but I love food, wine, desserts and rest and the feeling of vitality! So when my mind starts to pick apart an extra layer, a little jiggle, I remind myself that that is the pasta and wine I shared with my family, the morning I skipped my workout to order breakfast in bed with my husband, the late night pizza I shared with my neighbor and all the other choices I have made. I love those choices so therefore I love that jiggle.

3. All-time favourite quote.

There is a vitality, a life force, an energy, a quickening that is translated through you into action, and because there is only one of you in all of time, this expression is unique. And if you block it, it will never exist through any other medium and it will be lost. The world will not have it. It is not your business to determine how good it is nor how valuable nor how it compares with other expressions. It is your business to keep it yours clearly and directly, to keep the channel open. You do not even have to believe in yourself or your work. You have to keep yourself open and aware to the urges that motivate you. Keep the channel open. … No artist is pleased. [There is] no satisfaction whatever at any time. There is only a queer divine dissatisfaction, a blessed unrest that keeps us marching and makes us more alive than the others.

4. Where do you see the #bodypositive movement this year?

I see all of us evolving a little more and really starting to embrace our unique individual bodies. I see us continuing to shift from a certain look to strength and vitality. I see us putting down our phones, stopping ourselves from judgement directed at others and ourselves, and I see us starting to act like the people we want to be. I think we all are doing a lot of talking and we need to start walking the walk.. myself especially.

5. Fitness Goals for 2019?

My big goal for 2019 is flexibility. I do not struggle with making a workout happen. I struggle with slowing down and breathing deep. I swear this coming year I am going to do some yoga and maybe use my foam roller, at least once.

10. Shauna Harrison

PhD in Public Health, Yogi & Creator of Muscle + Flow

Instagram: @shauna_harrison

1. What does Body Positivity mean to you?

To me, body positivity extends beyond just the acceptance of the spectrum of body shapes. It reaches deeper than just how we perceive our bodies and other’s bodies in the world. It’s more than how we speak of the body as a culture or in our conversations. It goes all the way into our subconscious and conscious thought patterns. How are we speaking to ourselves about our bodies? What words are we choosing? What expectations and rules and “if only’s” are we placing on ourselves. Positivity has to start as your deepest core first. And we cannot forget that this also means it has to include how we take care of our bodies: movement, fuel, hydration, recovery, sleep, mental health, all of that is also part of doing positive things to take care of your vessel. Body positivity is all of these things combined.

2. 3 tips or tricks to boost your self confidence.

Get in your body. Move your body in a way that feels good to you. Care for your body as if it were the only one you had because it is.
Meditate (in whatever way works for you). Self talk is what can most quickly rip down our self esteem. Get in there and change your thought patterns.
Own your badass. You are an incredibly unique, magical and necessary part of this world. Act accordingly.

3. All-time favourite quote.

“Nobody built like you, you design yourself.” ~ Jay Z

4. Where do you see the #bodypositive movement this year?

I definitely feel like the concept is hitting various aspects of culture these days, which is great. I do hope, though, that we can not mask body positivity as just being about the aesthetic and external aspects of the body. The internal is just as (if not more?) important to consider. Praising all bodies in their beautiful glory is awesome, but also praising what happens within each body that has nothing to do with what’s reflected outside is also important.

5. Fitness Goals for 2019?

Fun fact: I never really set fitness goals. My “goal” is always to get a little better with every opportunity that presents itself. I am a process-oriented person. I would rather celebrate the moments that happen along the way rather than a given goal to hit so I have little victories every day.

11. Aroosha Nekonam

Personal Trainer at Ultimate Performance

Instagram: @arooshanekonam

1. What does Body Positivity mean to you?

To me, body positivity is an acceptance of who you are, not just what you are. You are not always going to be happy with your body, or happy in yourself, but you accept the things you cannot change and embrace it. It doesn’t mean that you have to feel beautiful and wonderful 24/7, it means that you disconnect that tie of how you “think” you look with how you feel as a person and your self-worth. You are comfortable in your own skin and treat your body with respect and love because it does so much for you, but you need to remember that you are so much more than just a “body.” You are strength, courage, confidence, kindness, intelligence, the list goes on.

2. 3 tips or tricks to boost your self confidence.

Get a sweat on and move some weight! Nothing makes my personal training clients at Ultimate Performance feel more confident than when they are pushing their body to its full potential in the gym. Exercise releases endorphins and increases motivation in other areas of your life, so they walk into a session carrying so much stress and then walk out with a sense of clarity and accomplishment.It is so empowering and liberating to see what your body can actually do and how quickly it can adapt, respond and grow so much stronger.
Do one thing every day for yourself that makes you happy. It doesn’t have to be anything big, something as simple as watching your favourite movie, having a bath, getting your nails done, meeting a friend for coffee. Just one thing that boosts your mood for that day – it is important to make that time for you and to check in with yourself.
Pay attention to yourself. Are you smiling? How is your posture? Sometimes a small change like a smirk on the face and straightening up your stance has great psychological benefits. What you portray on the outside can help influence how you feel internally. Start your day with a smile and proud shoulders.

3. All-time favourite quote.

One message that will always resonate with me is the story of the two wolves. It’s not really a quote but the message is very powerful.

An old man told his grandson, “My son, there is a battle between two wolves inside us all.

“One is Evil. It is anger, jealousy, greed, resentment, inferiority, lies and ego.

“The other is Good. It is joy, peace, love, hope, humanity, kindness, empathy and truth.”

The boy thought about it, and asked, “Grandfather, which wolf wins?”

The old man quietly replied, “The one you feed.”

I love this quote because it’s so true that ultimately our happiness is down to us. If we clog our thoughts with negative emotions life will respond to us as such, but if we are positive, grateful and honest, we will have a happier more fulfilling life.

4. Where do you see the #bodypositive movement this year?

The body positivity movement has grown so much recently with millions (women in particular) now starting to voice their appreciation and love for their body and it’s a great thing, however, I would hope that it won’t stop there.

For me, there needs to be more than just body positivity – there needs to be positivity of the self as a whole. A celebration of our intelligence, our capabilities, our values as people, a connection to ourselves as human beings and not just a “body”.

With this, of course, comes self-respect for our mind and body, by taking care of it, nourishing it, strengthening it.

5. Fitness Goals for 2019?

In 2019, I am hoping, personally to get stronger. There are always improvements to be made, always an area that could use some work, and I am excited for another year of progress and accomplishments!

12. Jennifer Renée

1st Albino Beauty Influencer & Jump Rope Fitness Enthusiast

Instagram: @jreneejrenee

1. What does Body Positivity mean to you?

Body positive means feeling confident and loving the body you’re in as well as accepting and uplifting all of the various body types of others.

2. 3 tips or tricks to boost your self confidence.

Pushing myself to go beyond my comfort zone with trying new things. Staying consistent with excercise and being active. Eating foods that make me feel good.

3. All-time favourite quote.

“Do not judge me by my success, judge me by how many times I fell down and got back up again.” ~ Nelson Mandela

4. Where do you see the #bodypositive movement this year?

I would love to see continued increase in the representation of all body types and abilities in media and marketing.

5. Fitness Goals for 2019?

My 2019 fitness goal is to get consistent with jump rope training and enter a competition. I want to teach other beginner jump rope skills. I’m also looking forward to exploring yoga and other ways to be active next year.

13. Tara Laferrara

Online Trainer & Founder of A-Cup Podcast

Instagram: @TaraLaferrara

1. What does Body Positivity mean to you?

It is, quite simply, the acceptance of all different body types. Bodies are not one in the same, they are not just tall or short, big or small, they are different shapes and sizes and beauty in every single one of them. It is important for us all to know that we are in fact different, and thats a good thing.

2. 3 tips or tricks to boost your self confidence.

MOVE. There is no better feeling than sweating doing something you love. It doesn’t have to be working out in the gym, it can be walking, dancing in the kitchen, anything you love to do to move
Say NO. Do you feel yourself doing things that you don’t want to do? It’s important to say no more often so you can do more things you love on the daily
Showcase your personality. There is no other human on this planet like you. Showcase your differences in how you dress and how you act. Just be yourself.

3. All-time favourite quote.

What if I fall?

But darling, what if you fly?

4. Where do you see the #bodypositive movement this year?

All over social media. In brand campaigns, digitally and in print. On TV, in politics, everywhere! The younger generation needs to see it now to know that its okay to be yourself.

5. Fitness Goals for 2019?

Inspire more people to get up and move and to lift heavy shit. Oh, and do a standing backflip.