What Fitness Wear Is Not

Throughout my year of service, I have had numerous people question the Fitness Wear Competition of Miss International. Parents, contestants, outsiders… they all want to understand what this phase is really about.

As many of you all know, I battled a life-threatening eating disorder for three years. When I considered competing for Miss International, I put a lot of thought into what competing would look like. I wanted to make sure I was solid enough in my own recovery journey to safely speak out about my experience and prepare for Internationals in a healthy way. Leading up to the competition, I had many sessions with a licensed therapist to make sure that I was staying mentally strong while preparing for fitness. My health had to stay a priority, and I refused to take steps back in my recovery journey. When I walked on stage, I desired to show people that recovery is possible and share what God had done in my life.

Today, I want to clarify what Fitness Wear is not… because anyone can be Miss International - there is no mold.

1. It’s Not About Being The Thinnest

So many people think that only a certain size is healthy - that’s not true. Each person has a weight that is healthy for them. It’s not called “Thin Wear”… it’s called “Fitness Wear”. Whether you’re a beautiful size 0 or a stunning size 18… what matters is your health. Our organization works with the American Heart Association, and our crowned representatives showcase their heart healthy lifestyle through this competition.

2. It’s Not About Being The Strongest

I like to think I am the Incredible Hulk… but when I try to carry all my groceries in from the store at once… I realize I’m not. It’s a sad moment, but something I am working to overcome (hehehe). Many think that in order to win, you’ve got to live in the gym and look like a body-builder. This is also a myth. It’s more about being toned and healthy.

3. It’s Not About Just Smiling

Smiling is important, don’t get me wrong. I highly support smiling in Fitness Wear. But if you smile and then also look scare to death… that’s when the issue arises. I always tell contestants, you score well in fitness wear because of what you look like from the shoulders up. If your smile is genuine and confident, then everyone will be drawn to your charisma. They’ll see how proud of your body you are!

I hope this helps clarify Fitness Wear and I can’t wait to see everyone in Charleston, WV in August!

Redefining Beauty Worldwide,

Amanda Moreno
Miss International 2016