A Community of Care

Can you believe it’s already July? I’m personally having trouble wrapping my head around the fact that we’re already halfway through 2026 and that summer is well underway. To me, warmer temperatures have always been a reminder of my body image insecurities. Suddenly, everyone is wearing shorts and dresses, and I find myself feeling too pale, not thin enough, or not toned enough. Recently, I came across a report on body image and exercise avoidance in young adults. It made me wonder whether those same feelings change as we get older, or whether they simply take different forms. It turns out the answer is both yes and no. Body image still matters as we age, but it becomes one piece of a much bigger puzzle.

When body image becomes a barrier to exercise

To better understand that bigger picture, let’s first look at what we know about body image and exercise in general. We often hear that regular physical activity is one of the best things we can do for our health. Yet despite these well-known benefits, many people remain inactive. While lack of time, health concerns, and access to facilities are common barriers, another obstacle is often overlooked: body image. For many, exercise is not simply about moving their body—it’s about being seen while doing so. Feelings of embarrassment, fear of judgment, or pressure to meet unrealistic beauty standards can make fitness spaces feel intimidating rather than welcoming. So it’s no surprise research shows that body image plays an important role in physical activity, particularly among women and adolescents. Those who feel dissatisfied with their appearance or worry about how others perceive their bodies are less likely to participate in sports, fitness classes, or gym-based activities. Studies have also found that individuals who experience weight stigma—negative attitudes or discrimination based on body size—are more likely to avoid exercise altogether. When physical activity becomes associated with appearance rather than well-being, it often leads to lower motivation, less enjoyment, and a greater likelihood of giving up.

Body image in older adulthood

Among older adults, the picture is slightly different. Body image concerns do not disappear with age. Many women, in particular, continue to experience dissatisfaction with their appearance well into later life. Older adults who have experienced weight stigma may also avoid fitness settings because of previous experiences of judgment or discrimination. However, research consistently shows that appearance is not the primary reason adults over 65 avoid physical activity. More often, the challenges are practical: chronic pain, fear of falling, reduced mobility, fatigue, transportation, or simply not knowing where to start. Some also feel intimidated by fitness environments that appear to cater to younger, fitter clientele. These findings remind us that promoting physical activity among older adults requires addressing both practical and emotional barriers—not simply encouraging people to “exercise more.”

Moving for health, independence and joy

Fortunately, we also know what motivates older adults to stay active. Rather than focusing on weight loss or appearance, older adults are far more likely to embrace movement when it’s connected to meaningful, everyday goals. Staying strong enough to garden, climb stairs, travel, play with grandchildren, maintain balance, reduce pain, or continue living independently are all powerful motivators. Enjoyment and social connection matter, too. Strolling with a friend, joining a walking group or community exercise class, or participating in a dance program can make physical activity feel less like a chore and more like an opportunity to connect with others.

By celebrating what our bodies can do instead of how they look, we create more inclusive environments where people of all ages—and all body sizes—can experience the physical and emotional benefits of staying active. Maybe that’s something worth remembering this summer. Instead of worrying about whether our bodies are “summer ready,” perhaps we can focus on what they allow us to do. Wishing you plenty of opportunities to move your body this July! Take care, Anaïs