Plus Size Figure Skater Laine Dubin Racks Up 30M Views

When Laine Dubin started posting figure skating videos in 2018, she just wanted to free up storage space on her phone. She had no idea she was about to spark a body-positive revolution in one of the world's most appearance-obsessed sports.

The Quinnipiac University skater doesn't look like the typical Olympic figure skater, and that's exactly why millions of people can't stop watching her. Her routines showcase incredible jumps, spins, and artistry that many assumed were impossible for someone with her body type.

One recent video exploded to over 30 million views, showing Dubin executing flawless spins and jumps with pure joy radiating from every movement. The comments section became an outpouring of emotion from viewers who had never seen someone like them performing at such a high level.

"Ok but as a bigger Asian girl who has always dreamed of ice skating this made me tear up," one viewer wrote. Another added, "wait! someone with my body type figure skating?!!! like a GODDESS may I add, this makes me feel so seen."

Figure skating has a serious problem with body image. Five-time Olympic medalist Tessa Virtue faced constant criticism about her physique throughout her career. Two-time US National Champion Gracie Gold took a hiatus to get help with an eating disorder. Rising star Yulia Lipnitskaya retired at just 19 due to anorexia and injuries.

The pressure comes from all sides. Skaters wear revealing costumes that put their bodies on display for judges and millions of viewers. Coaches and commentators openly discuss weight as if it's the only factor in performance.

Dubin is proving them all wrong with every powerful jump and graceful spin. She demonstrates that athletic excellence and artistry have nothing to do with fitting into a narrow beauty standard.

Why This Inspires

What makes Dubin's impact so powerful is the representation she provides. Young skaters who love the sport but don't fit the traditional mold now have proof they belong on the ice.

"It's just people seeing representation in the media of themselves being represented first," Dubin told US Figure Skating. "That's what will make people feel validated and that's what will lead to change with body inclusivity in the skating space."

The official Olympics Facebook page shared her videos, exposing her message to millions more viewers worldwide. Her social media following continues to grow as more people discover that figure skating can be for everyone, regardless of size.

Every time Dubin posts a new routine, the comments fill with stories from people who gave up skating because they were told their bodies weren't right for it. Now they're lacing up their skates again, inspired to reclaim the sport they love.

One viewer perfectly captured what Dubin's visibility means: "As a plus sized girl who had the idea of figure skating shot down, thank you for making the lil girl in me happy and I'm so damn proud of you."