‘I gained weight and really feel nice – I’m bored with society telling me to be skinny’

Our bodies change over time – and this is completely normal.

We all evolve in our own ways, but one woman knew she needed to make a pretty big change. Emma Apell, AKA Live Well with Apell to her over 80,000 Instagram followers, is known for sharing fitness advice online.

In a recent post, she opened up about how she grew tired of living up to other people’s expectations, and refused to miss out on life out of fear of not being thin. She said working out shouldn’t be a punishment, but a way we celebrate what our bodies can do for us.

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It took her time to realise this, but we workout as a way to care for our body – not to make it thinner. She knows life is all about balance, which is why she never bans her favourite foods from her diet.

A few years back Emma was super strict with her routine, and would treat herself a lot less. Though pictures show she was a lot thinner at the time, she looks a lot healthier and happier now.

Gaining a little weight has helped transform her life, and she’s learnt that not all healthy bodies have abs. She said everyone has days where they feel “weak”, but it’s all a part of the journey of growth.

Writing on Instagram, the fitness star said: “You glow differently when you focus on doing what feels good for YOU – rather than what society says you ’should’ be doing. Here are some of the things I have learned and realised through the years that has helped me on my journey.

“A HEALTHY BODY CAN LOOK A MILLION DIFFERENT WAYS. I will scream it from the roof tops, being healthy, fit and strong is and will never be a ‘one look fits all’.

“I hope this post brought some light to your day – whatever journey you’re on or whatever battle you’re fighting. I believe in you!”

Since she shared the post, several people have liked it. Her followers were quick to comment too – they said she was “simply stating facts”, and thanked her for being so open about her journey with body image.

One person said: “It’s amazing to see how you have grown over the last couple of years! Love to see you shine more and more.”

Another added: “I wish my younger self would have had strong women like you to look at.” A third replied: “Love your messages! Thank you so much for being a positive acc on often-toxic social media rare perspective and essential reminders!!”

Meanwhile, a fourth commented: “I know rest days are so important but i find it so fun to go to the gym. Love your post.”

The fitness star admits she loves being able to train as it allows her to celebrate everything her body is capable of. Nonetheless, this doesn’t mean she’s going to put pressure on herself to look a certain way, as she’s happy in her own skin.

Back in 2020 Emma was a lot smaller, but said she’s a lot healthier now. She claimed feeling good about yourself isn’t linked to how your body looks, as striving for a six pack brought her very little joy.

Emma wants people to know their bodies deserve love, and it doesn’t matter if their tummies aren’t flat. In fact, it’s pretty normal to have some shaping around the area.

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