New York, NY – SELF Magazine has announced its roster of Everyday Athletes for 2025, a diverse group of individuals who embody the spirit of fitness in all its forms. This initiative, now in its several years, highlights the magazine’s commitment to showcasing relatable and inspiring people within the fitness world. The Everyday Athletes program aims to move away from the often-unrealistic portrayals of fitness, instead focusing on the journeys of individuals who integrate movement into their daily lives.
The Essence of the Everyday Athlete
The Everyday Athlete isn’t defined by professional sports or elite performance. They are the people who find joy and challenge in fitness, whether it’s through powerlifting, yoga, dance, or simply a consistent gym routine. They are trainers, instructors, and fitness enthusiasts who are not only passionate about their own health but are also dedicated to making fitness accessible and welcoming to all. This concept is also echoed in other fitness communities that emphasize that the progress made in pursuing athletic goals translates into progress in other aspects of life.
Breaking Barriers and Redefining Fitness
SELF’s decision to feature Everyday Athletes stems from a recognition of the lack of representation in mainstream fitness media. Many individuals find it challenging to connect with fitness content when they do not see people who look like them or share similar experiences. By casting a wide net and featuring a wide range of people, SELF seeks to create a more inclusive environment. These athletes are not just models; they are active participants in their respective fitness communities, often working to promote positive change and a more welcoming fitness culture.
More Than Just Physical Prowess
The Everyday Athletes represent a holistic view of fitness, one that encompasses not only physical strength and endurance, but also mental resilience and self-care. Many of these athletes have shared stories of overcoming personal challenges, using fitness as a tool for self-improvement. This perspective highlights that fitness is about more than achieving a specific physique or performance metric. It’s a journey of self-discovery and empowerment.
Who are the 2025 Everyday Athletes?
The 2025 cohort of SELF’s Everyday Athletes includes a broad range of individuals:
- Trainers and Instructors: Many of the athletes are also fitness professionals who are actively working to make fitness more inclusive and fun. They bring their own unique training methods and philosophies to the table.
- Diverse Disciplines: The group represents various forms of exercise, from high-intensity interval training to calming yoga practices. This diversity showcases the many ways one can integrate fitness into their lives.
- Real-World Enthusiasts: The athletes are not just fitness figures. They are everyday people who have made a commitment to their health, and who demonstrate that fitness can be both a goal and a lifestyle.
The Selection Process
SELF Magazine utilizes open casting calls and social media to scout for these athletes, emphasizing a commitment to inclusivity and diversity. The selection process is rigorous, ensuring that each athlete embodies the values of SELF and brings a unique perspective to the fitness community.
The Impact of Everyday Athletes
The Everyday Athlete program has several positive impacts:
- Inspiration: By showcasing relatable individuals, SELF inspires readers to embark on their own fitness journeys. It demonstrates that anyone can be an athlete, regardless of their background or current fitness level.
- Inclusivity: The program promotes a more inclusive fitness environment, making it clear that fitness is for everyone. This is a critical step in addressing the lack of diversity in fitness media.
- Community: The athletes foster a sense of community, creating spaces where people feel supported and encouraged. This is vital for maintaining motivation and building a positive relationship with fitness.
SELF Magazine: A Legacy in Health and Wellness
SELF Magazine has a long-standing history as a prominent publication in the health, wellness, beauty, and style sectors. Originally a print magazine founded in 1979, it has evolved into an online platform that continues to provide expert advice, inspiration, and the latest trends in fitness and lifestyle. Although the print version ceased publication in 2017, the online platform continues to publish new content.
A Shift Towards Inclusivity
The magazine’s commitment to the Everyday Athlete initiative reflects a broader trend within the fitness industry, which recognizes the need to be more inclusive and representative of the diverse individuals who engage in fitness activities. This approach is in contrast to the previous focus on a narrow definition of fitness that often prioritized specific body types and performance standards.
More Than Just a Magazine
SELF Magazine has established itself as more than just a publication; it is a community hub that offers valuable resources to its readership. With a strong online presence and a variety of content formats, the platform continues to be an influential voice in the wellness space. Its recognition of Everyday Athletes further cements its role as an advocate for accessible, inclusive, and holistic fitness.
The Future of Fitness
The concept of the Everyday Athlete is not just a trend; it represents a fundamental shift in how we perceive fitness. It’s a move away from unattainable ideals towards a celebration of individual journeys and the benefits of incorporating movement into our daily lives. SELF Magazine is at the forefront of this movement, and its 2025 cohort of Everyday Athletes will undoubtedly inspire many to embrace their own fitness path.
As more individuals find that they too can be athletes in their own right, the industry can look forward to an environment that is more welcoming, diverse, and empowering. The focus on relatable stories and real-world experiences is what makes the Everyday Athlete movement a notable moment in the fitness industry. SELF’s efforts to showcase everyday individuals in fitness is a step towards creating a more positive and healthy world.
