Well-known curvy models such as Angelina Kirsch or Ashley Graham show us how to do it: they are self-confident and stand by their curves, and people love it. Being sought after plus-size models, they have established themselves in the modelling industry. They are proof for the fact that beauty knows no size. To play the gallery with their curves and to keep themselves in shape, these women consider sports and fitness to be important.

People’s trend awareness has been going into the direction of health, sports and fitness for a long time. The body isn’t only of importance to models with 90-60-90 measurements though; more frequently requested curvy models also seek to live a fit lifestyle. Body positivity is the key word, as fitness helps with getting to know and learning to love your own body which will boost your self-confidence.

Exercising as the key to your own happiness?

Exercising helps to keep your body fit and healthy. Among other things, it strengthens your bones and prevents osteoporosis. In addition, regular exercise enables better blood circulation which can lead to an improved metabolism and firmer skin. However, fitness isn’t only good for your body but also for your mind. That’s because hormones such as serotonin, endorphin and dopamine are released during exercise and make you happier. Last but not least, we also build a more positive self-image and get to know and love ourselves more.

For targeted strengthening of your curves and accentuating them, you don’t necessarily have to go to a gym. There are lots of exercises you can easily do at home. Everything you need is a sports mat, dumbbells or water bottles and motivation.

For an adequate level of motivation, a great outfit is oftentimes a good starting point. More and more clothing brands offer sports fashion for curvy women and men. When choosing the right outfit, the most important factor is that you feel comfortable; your outfit should also allow you to move freely, so you can fully focus on your exercise. If both of these things happen to be the case, motivation oftentimes comes all on its own.

5 exercises for a great body

As an overview for you, we summarised the best exercises to perfectly accentuate your curves! Perform these exercises in two to three sets with 10-15 repetitions each.

1. Squads

Squads are perfect for strengthening your butt and leg muscles. At first, stand up straight with your feet shoulder-width apart. Bend your knees slowly and push your butt backwards, while your upper body slightly tilts forward. During the downward movement, your knees and toes have to point into the same direction. Try to go down far enough for your thighs to be parallel to the ground. Then extend your legs and breathe out again. Your lower back should be in a slightly hollow position.

2. Lunges

Another great exercise for strengthening your butt and legs are lunges. Stand tall with your feet parallel, then take a big step forward with one leg and lower your torso. Your step should be so far that you can still see the tip of your toes over your knee. When you have reached a 90-degree angle with your front knee, you can step back again and place both legs in parallel position.

When doing this exercise, make sure you do it in a straight line to the front. Take your time as you do it and keep a good posture.

3. Donkey kicks

Donkey kicks are another good exercise for keeping tight thighs and strong butt muscles. Get onto all fours and place your arms shoulder-width apart. Your back is straight, while your abs are tight. Now lift your right leg until it’s in line with your butt and back. Try to keep your thigh and calf at a right angle. Then slowly lower down your leg into its original position and repeat the exercise a couple of times. Afterwards, repeat with your left leg.

4. Shoulder press

The shoulder press is perfect for strengthening your arms, shoulders and chest muscles, and the only thing you’ll need are two dumbbells or water bottles and a chair.

To start, sit upright on a chair. Take a water bottle in each hand and raise your arms left and right of the body, so that the bottles are at the same height as your shoulders. Your upper and lower arm form a right angle. Next, you’ll simultaneously press both bottles up above your head. Be careful not to lock your arms. Then lower your arms until your elbows are at shoulder height. Hold this position for a moment and repeat.

5. Rowing

Rowing is perfect for strengthening your back and arms, and the only thing you’ll need are dumbbells or water bottles.

At first, stand tall with your feet shoulder-width apart. Now bend your upper body about 45 degrees forward and stick your butt backwards at the same time. Your knees should be slightly bent. Take a water bottle into your right hand, hold your arm close to your body and stretch it downwards. Be careful not to fully bend it. Leading with your elbow, pull your arm upwards, until your hand is at the same level as your abdomen and then stretch it again. Repeat this exercise several times. Repeat it with a dumbbell or water bottle in your left hand as well.

Strengthening your body and spirit with yoga

Those who don’t like sports per se can also keep themselves fit in other ways - with yoga, for example. Yoga has its origins in India and includes many exercises that are perfect for your body. More and more curvy people lean towards yoga, especially because it's gentle on your joints and provides balance for our stressful day-to-day lives. And yoga has even more benefits: it promotes blood circulation, strengthens the connective tissue, helps to release tension and promotes muscle building. Furthermore, it can help you get more flexible, improve your posture and balance.

If you’re still not convinced, just know that yoga isn’t only perfect for your body but for your mind as well. The word yoga means unification or aligning body and soul. The exercises are often relaxing and calming and will help you to focus, especially on yourself. As it promotes focus on yourself, it will increase your self-confidence. And due to that, you will love your curves more than ever.