Nike just did something we want more of: It dropped an ad featuring pregnant and breastfeeding women showcasing their athleticism and strength. Did it get us all choked up because it’s so dang beautiful? Uh, not gonna lie: Yes! The ad, which is really more of a short film, is for the brand's maternity line, Nike (M), which launched in September of 2020. Judging from the comments section on Instagram where the ad was posted on March 14, we’re not the only ones who are loving it and getting a tad emotional over it.
More from MamásLatinas: Famous athletes who have the cutest kids
"Nike you seriously win the internet. As a Mom of three who literally barely has time to shower or have self care this was so encouraging and empowering! It made me realize I can be and already am an athlete ❤️ love this," one person wrote in the comments. Not everyone was as effusive because, as many brought up, Nike’s maternity policies for its sponsored athletes haven’t been as empowering as this ad. Hopefully, this ad is a sign of better things to come. Take a look for yourself.
The ad features women in different stages of motherhood.
The ad is called "Toughest Athletes" and showcases women who are at different stages of pregnancy and their postpartum journey. The caption posted alongside the video reads: "Motherhood looks different for everyone. But no matter what you do or how you do it, you are the toughest athlete."
You’ll recognize some famous athletes.
Some of the most recognizable faces in the ad include Serena Williams and her daughter Alexis Olympia Ohanian Jr. You’ll also see soccer player Alex Morgan, as well as track and field stars Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce, Perri Shakes-Drayton, Nia Ali, and Bianca Williams.
There’s a voiceover throughout.
A narrator speaks throughout the ad providing context for the visual elements. "Can you be an athlete?” the narrator first asks. "You, pregnant? You, a mother? That depends. What is an athlete?"
So, what is an athlete?
"Someone who moves?" the narrator continues. "Sounds like you. Someone who gets it done, no matter what? You do that. Someone who listens to her body. Also you. Someone who defies gravity. You. Someone who deals with the pain, hits her limit, and pushes past it. Pushing, pushing, pushing. Someone who earns every single win. You, you, you. So can you be an athlete? If you aren't, no one is.”
Watch the full ad and see how it affects you.
It got to us right in the feels because it made us feel seen and understood and it reminds us of how amazing mothers are every step of the way. Seeing images of mothers being celebrated for their athleticism, strength, and determination is something that we want to see more of, and not just in ads.
