The Telegraph UK
“Immense, gargantuan, vast. She heaves with fat.” “She cannot run. She is, more likely, pre-diabetic and on her way to a hip replacement.”
These are the words of a Journalist of “The Telegraph” regarding a story she wrote about the Nike flagship store in London introducing plus-size mannequins on the floor.
As upset as I am by her words and lack of foresight to see that Nike is taking the stand to encourage fitness at any level or size. I’m here to applaud Nike! Kudos and keep doing what you do! Seeing mannequins in the store that are similar to my size lets me know that you are thinking about me and my health. It shows that you are supporting women that want to lead a healthy lifestyle. This doesn’t diminish Nike at all, it actually elevates them to the next level. A large percentage of people in the U.S. are considered obese or overweight and many of us have already taken control of our health or we are ready to. We should have the option of walking into any fitness store and purchasing clothing. And even better, is being able to see the clothing on mannequins so we know what to expect.
For years, I’ve walked into clothing stores and the mannequins are a size two. Even stores that catered to Plus-Size had mannequins that didn’t represent us. But today, so many stores are starting to embrace the fact that we are all different. We are all not the same size but we deserve the same treatment as everyone else.
Thank you, Nike, for making this plus size woman feel appreciated and for letting me know that your company doesn’t have the narrow focus that if you are bigger then you don’t exercise. Look, I’m plus-size and I get up in the morning at 4 am to go to the gym 4-5 times a week. I’m working on a healthier me, but healthier doesn’t mean smaller.
I know women that are plus size and are the strongest women I know. Literally, dead-lifting 250 pounds or more. These women are breaking stereotypes and allowing everyone to see that it doesn’t matter what size you are. Cheers to Nike!
What do you think of the plus-size mannequins in the Nike store or any store?
