These pictures show what “healthy” looks like according to the British.
The AI-generated images show a lean and muscular man and woman with shiny hair and glowing skin as they engage in exercise.
They are also not disabled and have no mobility restrictions – after a survey of 2,000 adults, it was revealed what they think health means.
Other characteristics that define a “healthy person” are good posture, the ability to move without difficulties and aids, and a low body fat content.
But despite this, although 54% consider themselves healthy, 20% of them admit that they look nothing like the imagined stereotype.
The images and research by Bupa, ParalympicsGB’s official health partner, was launched as part of its ‘Health is…’ campaign, which also revealed 43% feel this health type broadcast has a ‘one size fits all’ approach that misses out. different body types and abilities.
To emphasize that health is individual, individuals using the St Pancras Tunnel leading to Eurostar will experience a powerful visual representation of their own health reflected in a mirror.
Paralympian Hannah Cockroft, who is working with Bupa on the campaign, said: “Health is unique to everyone, but many of us have a stereotype of what healthy is.”
She added: “The ‘one size fits all’ approach ignores the diversity of body types and abilities that contribute to genuine well-being, inside and out.”
“It is important for people to understand that disability does not define someone’s health or potential. Accepting differences can lead to a more comprehensive and accurate understanding of what being healthy really means and removes the pressure to conform to a stereotypical norm.”
The survey found that half of adults consider themselves to be physically fit, with 32 percent claiming to be healthier than they look, and 83 percent believing that health is not just physical.
Yet one in five (19%) rarely see anyone who looks like them featured in the media, and six in ten believe that society’s perception of health needs to change, with 78% feeling that health is unique to everyone.
However, a whopping 79% believe that it is entirely possible to be healthy but not look like what society sees you to be. 32 percent say they are healthier than they look, and 83 percent believe that health is not just physical.
People with disabilities feel this impact the most, with 40 percent wishing society had more representation of a wider range of body types and abilities. 20% say how it affects their mental health.
As a result, two-thirds of disabled people surveyed by OnePoll believe that society’s view of “health” needs to change.
Carlos Jaureguizar, Managing Director of Bupa Global, India and UK, said: “Our results show the importance of expanding society’s understanding of health.
“While traditional images of health may relate to certain physical attributes, true wellness encompasses a wide range of body types, abilities, mental health, and personal experiences.
“We believe that health is a deeply individual journey, and our ‘Health is…’ campaign seeks to embrace and celebrate this diversity.
“Through our partnership with ParalympicsGB, we hope to challenge stereotypes, break down societal barriers and promote a more inclusive culture of what it means to be healthy and happy.”
