That's Fit

The Dove Campaign For Real Beauty has been based upon the idea that, while our bodies might have flaws (real or perceived), we're all beautiful. It's a good message, and they're looking to boost the self-esteem of females of all ages, starting with young girls. I'm all for it -- it's important that women realize that they don't need to be able to trade clothes with their favorite actress or be stalked by paparazzi in order to be beautiful.

However, some discussion has recently surfaced saying that the women in the Real Beauty ads were retouched. Premiere retoucher, Pascal Dangin, told The New Yorker that there was a great deal of retouching done on those ads, "But it was great to do, a challenge, to keep everyone's skin and faces showing the mileage but not looking unattractive."

What do you think about this development? I can't say I'm surprised -- I appreciate the fact that Dove still used women of different shapes and sizes. I mean, these are regular women being photographed and filmed in their undies! I can't say I would object to a little digital help were I in their position. But, others feel that it destroys the message -- they're not showing "real" beauty if there's retouching. What do you think?

Do you know what kind of arch you have? Want to find out? Just dip your foot in water and step on a paper bag. Then look closely at your footprint.

If you're flat-footed or have a low arch, you'll see your entire footprint. If you have a high arch, you'll see a thin line between the ball and heel print. If you have a neutral or normal arch, your print will look like a half moon.

So what's your type? Whatever it is, make sure you use this information next time you go shopping for the perfect workout shoe. Different shoes support different arches -- so be sure to find the shoe that's just right for you.