Chloe Bailey, the Grammy-nominated singer and actress, has candidly shared her feelings of insecurity regarding her body while discussing her fitness goals for the summer. In a recent interview with PEOPLE in 10, the 27-year-old revealed that she has been particularly focused on strengthening her arms, a body part she has historically felt self-conscious about.
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Bailey, who is known for her musical talent, remarked during the interview, “You know, as a woman, we all have an insecurity … that one little body part.” The star, who is also set to appear in the psychological thriller *Strung*, added, “I am a Georgia peach … I love when my gains go to my lower body, but [it also goes to my arms].” This summer, Bailey has made a personal commitment to achieve a more toned and defined upper body, stating, “So I said, ‘You know what? I’m gonna get these [arms] real ripped and toned.'”
The efforts she has put into her fitness regime appear to be paying off. Bailey expressed her enthusiasm over the visible results of her hard work. “I’m like, ‘Yes!’ I see back muscles. I see arm muscles!” she exclaimed. Notably, she took pride in her physical strength, mentioning, “When I’m at the airport and putting my carry-on at the top, I’m not struggling. A man’s like, ‘You need help?’ I’m like, ‘No!’”
The discussion about body image is not new for the actress, who has previously been open about her struggles with online criticism and insecurities. In a heartfelt conversation with Taraji P. Henson on her Facebook Watch show, *Peace of Mind with Taraji*, Bailey reflected on the impact of cyberbullying, admitting that negative comments had affected her self-esteem. “I’ve been really insecure for a long time, and I’m finally at that place where I have self-confidence,” she noted.
Bailey explained how social media commentary had caused her distress, particularly those suggesting her choices were motivated by a desire for male attention. Initially, these opinions hurt her deeply. “I can’t sit here and lie and say, ‘Oh, I’m bulletproof, nothing hurt me,’ because it honestly did,” she said. However, she gradually learned to dismiss the criticism, recognising that it was based on false narratives. “I’m just loving and appreciating my body, and I don’t think there’s anything wrong with that,” she affirmed.
Reflecting on her journey, Bailey acknowledged that body confidence has been a lifelong struggle. Since childhood, she has felt the weight of societal pressures regarding her curvy figure. “Ever since I was a little girl, I’ve always been curvy, to the point where sometimes it was my biggest insecurity,” she shared. This history of self-doubt ultimately led her to find empowerment in her body.
With time, Bailey’s perspective shifted significantly. “As I’ve gotten older, I have learned to really appreciate my curves. I love my stretch marks. Every time I have a photo shoot, I’m like, ‘No, don’t airbrush the stretch marks ’cause I like them,’” she explained. Embracing her body in all its forms has become a source of strength for her.
Bailey also reflected on the personal growth she has experienced beyond body image. “I used to think that I wasn’t very strong. But I’ve learned that I’m a pretty strong woman,” she shared, highlighting her journey towards self-empowerment. She spoke about her ongoing efforts to assert herself and find her voice in a world that often tries to impose its standards on women. “I’ve learned to say no to things that I don’t agree with, I’m learning to find my own voice, and it is so powerful and liberating. And it’s only going to get stronger and louder,” she added.
As Chloe Bailey continues to navigate her career in the public eye, her willingness to discuss body image and personal challenges serves as an inspiration to many. By openly addressing her insecurities and celebrating her progress, she not only advocates for body positivity but also encourages others to embrace their own journeys towards self-acceptance.