In a video titled “My Biggest Insecurity,” fitness Youtuber John David Glaude delivered a heartfelt and courageous appeal to show people what extreme weight loss does to your skin — and your confidence.
But he isn’t content with hiding this so-called insecurity. “I’m comfortable clothed,” he says in the video. “I’m not that comfortable unclothed, and I decided since I’m not that comfortable unclothed, I should show you guys [why].”
Though healthy and ripped these days, Glaude’s big secret is that he strategically hides his loose skin under his clothing, refusing to take his shirt off on the beach and other public places. Formerly 360 pounds, Gaude now runs a channel called ObesetoBeast where he gives guidance on the facets of getting fit from the perspective of someone who used to be the complete opposite. In the video, he shows how the skin around his arms, stomach and legs have changed with his body:
“Obviously this is not ideal,” Glaude says. “What I would have wanted after losing 160 pounds … is the perfect body, right? But that’s not the case, and that’s okay. You should never let loose skin or anything else stop you from going for your dreams. My dreams are to be really happy in my skin. And I am, loose skin and all.”
This motivating story was picked up quickly by r/Fitness, where feedback was all positive for Glaude. From kudos on the weight loss, to acknowledgment of his courage, to flat-out propositioning and flirtation, yesterday was a good day for Glaude. And with the way he’s inspired us, we hope his journey is yielding constant happiness and this experience is a breakthrough for his confidence.
The next time you’re feeling self-conscious, just remember this video if you need a swift kick in the gym shorts.
