The ideal human body has been commercialized, stigmatized, fetishized and, yes, even racialized. For women, trying to achieve the “perfect” body is an unattainable and often traumatic pursuit that never seems to end. On this episode, Sabrina Strings, PhD, an associate professor of sociology at the University of California, Irvine, explains why this is and helps us understand its impact on our individual and collective sense of well-being. Drawing from her book, Fearing the Black Body, she dives deep into diet culture, fat phobia, body positivity and the unsettled debate: Is obesity a disease?

Learn More

• Explore more of the history and research on the “ideal” female form through Strings’ book, Fearing the Black Body.
• Here’s a quick read: The Problem With BMI (body mass index).
• Step away from the stereotypes and move in whatever way feels good to you with workouts of all levels in the Nike Training Club app and guided runs in the Nike Run Club app.