TRENDING

 

Erica, an 18-year-old plus-size model from California, has received more enthusiasm than she ever could have imagined since the cover image was released online earlier this month. Supporters have taken to social media, especially Twitter, to thank the magazine and Erica for the representation they've provided. One woman even Tweeted that she almost started crying when she saw the cover. 

"Our generation has taken leaps and bound towards less judgment and more acceptance,” Erica said. “It makes me proud to see people responding positively to a curvy and proud woman who wants to lead a healthy lifestyle.”

Editor-in-Chief of Women’s Running Jessica Sebor explained to Today.com that one of the reasons she chose Erica for the cover was to show her readers that not all runners look the same. “You can go to any race finish line, from a 5K to a marathon, and see that. It was important for us to celebrate that,” she said.

Erica totally agreed, saying, “This cover proves anyone can run. Don’t be afraid to be curvy and do what you love. You’re not alone.”

Erica and other plus-size models, like Ashley Graham who appeared in this year’s Sports Illustrated swimsuit issue, are flaunting their fierce figures throughout the beauty industry. For decades, we’ve thought that models had to look a certain way and that, as girls, we had to strive to look the same. But finally, stars like Erica are showing us that anyone can be a cover girl. All it takes is the confidence to let your beauty shine.

How do you feel about the cover? Are you totally inspired? Tell us in the comments below.

Photo credit: Women's Running, Erica Schenk

by Samantha Max | 2/1/2016