24/08/2026
One of the things that shocked me most when I studied my degree wasn’t that difficult relationships with food and exercise existed
It was actually how COMMON they existed inside the very environments we confidently describe as “health”
They don’t always look like someone visibly struggling
They can look like discipline, consistency, achievement and transformation even with praise from eeeeveryone around them
I’m fully aware this post might p**s a few folk off, or leave you feeling a wee bit exposed (pls see the comments)
But the statistics are VERY difficult to ignore, and I would rather create a uncomfortable conversation than quietly help a harmful narrative continue
The 2024 Scottish health survery found over 35% of women aged 16-24 reported eating behaviours and feelings that could indicate an eating disorder
A study involving 1,157 female recreational exercises and athletes found that compulsive exercise was associated with greater risk of clinically significant anxiety, depression, and stress ALONGSIDE lower life satisfaction and self-esteem (we NEED to take that seriously)
In research involving sports that focus on female physique - excessive exercise was reported 84% and food restriction by 64%
We also know that repeatedly training without enough energy coming in can affect far more than appearance or performance….
It can affect recovery, emotional regulation, stress, hormones, bone health, metabolism, immunity…
By no means is this saying every gym, coach or photoshoot is harmful, but they do tell us we cannot assess health by looking at someone
This also isnt me saying that we shouldn’t want to get stronger, set big goals we feel proud of
BUT if we’re constantly setting goals for progressing
We can’t forget the other (and just as important) other end of health and wellbeing too - adapting and having time when we are not trying to improve anything
Your rest and and recharging are the most worthy goals too
I won’t become another voice in the industry that makes women feel like they are a constant project
💖💖
