Spas are often considered havens of relaxation, self-care and rejuvenation. However, for many individuals — especially those in larger bodies — the spa experience can lead to feelings of exclusion, discomfort or even shame.
This reality has spurred a growing movement toward body inclusivity in the wellness industry.
Advocates like Sky McLaughlin and Sherilyn Trompetter, Canadians who have traveled to more than 80 countries, found that while spas around the world promise luxury, they often fall short in accommodating a wide range of body types.
Their own experiences with fat phobia in spas sparked a passion to change the industry for the better.
A Call For Change
In 2022, Trompetter’s visit to a spa with friends underscored the need for body-inclusive practices. After multiple requests for a robe that fit, she was left feeling embarrassed and uncomfortable, casting a shadow over what should have been a restorative and celebratory experience.
“I felt bad about my own body, but I also felt bad for the other person, because it’s the system. They were not empowered,” Trompetter explained. “They’re not at fault. That was a procedure they had and the intake process. We want to let people know there are simple fixes for this.”
This experience prompted Trompetter to avoid returning to the spa, and discouraged her friends from returning as well. The situation was a stark reminder that without more inclusive practices, spas risk alienating clients and damaging their reputations.
After creating a course and an ebook on inclusive marketing strategies for spas, McLaughlin and Trompetter delved deeper into international best practices.
They discovered that while many spas follow protocols like offering robes and towels in lockers upon arrival, these practices don’t always account for diverse body types.
Their research led to simple yet effective solutions for spas to create more welcoming environments.
One suggestion is revamping the intake process to include sizing options, ensuring that every guest has the proper robe and towel waiting for them.
Another idea is to clearly label extra robes and towels and make them easily accessible in changing rooms, so guests don’t have to ask for larger sizes in a vulnerable state.
Spa Going In a Large Body
Finding the right spa can sometimes be a challenge for people with large bodies. Calling ahead may help avoid embarrassment. Look for spas that offer larger massage tables with high weight limits. Some spas also provide bed extenders for additional comfort.
When making a reservation, request a robe size ahead of time — or bring a personal spa bag with your own robe.
Scout out a spa before booking an appointment and ask for a tour. Are there therapists of all sizes? Does the artwork and marketing material display people of all sizes? Does the furniture accommodate larger bodies?
Many spas are committed to welcoming people of all body types into their spaces, even while some have been thoughtless about accommodating people who do not fit beauty standard stereotypes.