This is what happens when a woman with a “perfect” body removes her non-existent flaws.
If you’ve been on the internet for longer than, oh, about five minutes, you’ll know just how destructive social media can be.
And if you’re a woman? You’re probably equally familiar with the damaging and impossible idea of the “perfect body”.
Personal trainer and fitness brand Blogilates ambassador Cassey Ho has tackled both issues through a powerful new video, which shows how throw-away comments from cruel, anonymous trolls can affect body image and self-esteem.
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The video starts with a super-fit, healthy and happy Ho standing in front of a mirror, reading supportive tweets from her followers.
But then, the abuse starts.
And it is relentless.
Ho is inundated with cutting comments like:
“You shouldn’t give advice when you’re so fat.”
“Trainer? Really? Tone up the belly fat and love handles.”
“Why do all trainers have a 6-pack but not you?”
“Her body is so pudgy. Try doing some crunches.”
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And it doesn’t take long for the comments to rattle her. Within seconds, Ho decides to alter her body with the help of a Photoshop-like program, until it is “flawless” – in other words, almost unrecognisable.
Yep. It’s a tough watch.
Because if a personal trainer with the “perfect” body isn’t good enough, where does that leave the rest of us?
And if you’ve been lucky enough to avoid abuse from trolls online? You might just have said the same kind of comments to yourself while standing in front of a mirror.
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The confronting video might make you want to punch your computer in rage.
But it dives home just how damaging online abuse and the idea of the perfect body can be.
And that’s a message we all need to hear.
Do you find the video confronting?
Top Comments
It should be mentioned that she was called 'obese' in a video by Durianrider and Freelee the Banana Girl - the same pair recently sued by Kayla Itsines for harassing her.
Its ridiculous. Good video though, gave me goosebumps, pretty sad.