Our naked calendar proves why body positivity is more important than ever

It is our confidence that is far more attractive and memorable


Women are continually bombarded with magazine articles, adverts, and Instagram posts, which all portray the ‘ideal’ shape and size that we should aspire to be.

This is a size that society has decided for us. And do you know what’s worse? The fact that we simply cannot escape these images of the ‘perfect girl’.

Clearly, this needs to change.

This year at Warwick Rowing, as well as continuing our support for Macmillan Cancer Support, the girls are striving to promote positive body image among young women.

@warwickrowinggirls

That billboard advert with the size zero model? The “summer guide to your dream bod!” article in that fashion magazine? We believe that these images being replayed to us on a daily basis are false. By removing our clothes for this calendar, we are are facing body insecurities head on, proving that confidence and positivity of one’s image is far more beautiful than a size zero body.

I took part in the calendar, not only for the charity, which is important to my family and I, but also to promote a strong and happy body image. I have not always been content with the way I look. I have often wished to change many aspects of myself.  However, exposing myself in a new way and enjoying the experience made me realise that the physical manifestation of beauty is only on the surface, and that it is our confidence that is far more attractive and memorable. Our own imperfections are somebody else’s perfections, and we should champion our physical individuality, rather than constantly try and change it.

@warwickrowinggirls

One girl who was part of the 2017 campaign said: “It was a brilliant experience and would encourage people to do it in the future because it was a definite boost for me as I have been self-conscious in the past. No one should be ashamed of their body.”

Another girl added: “I did the calendar because I think it’s important to see that beauty comes in every form, not just what you see in magazines. It is also important to see that not all sports people have killer abs or arms of steel, we are normal people who work hard doing a sport that we love. We are proud of that!”

Finally: “I did the calendar as rowing made me feel stronger than ever, and I wanted a memory of that. I also felt it was incredibly valuable to portray strong and curvy bodies in many shapes and sizes as a change from the homogenised feminine body that we generally see in the media.”

@warwickrowinggirls

Our photographer India- Mae commented: “It was an absolute pleasure to work with these beautiful, strong, kind and inspiring women. The black and white highlights their healthy bodies perfectly.”

If we can champion women’s body image and encourage a positive perception of different sizes, whilst continuing to raise as much money as possible for Macmillan Cancer Support, then all of us at Warwick Rowing will feel that the 2017 Women’s calendar has fulfilled its purpose.

Beyoncé said: “The most alluring thing a woman can have is confidence”. Remember that, girls.