Plus-Size Model Lands the Cover of a National Running Magazine

She doesn't have the body you're used to seeing on the cover of running magazines, but what you're used to seeing isn't necessarily representative of women runners. And Women's Running magazine is helping to rectify that by putting plus-size model Erika Schenk on its August cover. “Some women believe that since they have curves they can’t run or shouldn’t run,” Schenk told the magazine. “Running is for every body anytime.” The body positive movement has hit new heights this year and so in some ways it's not a surprise to see Schenk on the cover. In other ways though, running has long been the sport of the the ropey-muscled super lean. Eating disorders are rampant among women runners and the need to drop weight to increase speed can compromise health as the distances get longer and the competitions stiffer. So it is still a pleasant surprise to see a plus-size model representing the sport for women who don't fit the stereotype. Schenk herself has been running for ten years. Asked what feels best about being on the cover, she responded, "Women of all sizes deserve to be praised for good health and have a presence in the media." It's good to see a major running magazine make the point that a runner's body is whatever body a runner has. But what do you think? Do you see this as a positive step or cashing in on a trend? h/t: Slate Do you follow us on Instagram? [caption id="attachment_99757" align="alignnone" width="100"] @BodyRockTV[/caption]