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Dreading Centerparcs

56 replies

Ringthebell26 · 26/01/2026 02:51

Hi

This midterm my family and I am going to Centerparcs with two other families(in laws)

I am a couple of stone overweight and hate how I look. My kids love the pool/slides but I am panicking at the thought of three days in swimwear in front of the rest of the group.

Could I get away with wearing a wetsuit? Maybe that is that ridiculous? Does anyone have any other ideas.

Thank you

OP posts:
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Mich1986 · 26/01/2026 20:19

I go to center parcs once a year, also uncomfortable with getting my body out and dread it, however there are all shapes and sizes there, male and female. I’ve seen hairy legs and backs, skin conditions, large people, tiny people, people with skimpy bikinis etc and then I think I’m just a mum on holiday enjoying time with her kids and get over it. You could look for a swimsuit with long sleeves maybe? A wet suit would look really out of place and draw attention to you. Just get a black or patterned swimsuit with tummy control? That’s what I wear

TheDaysAreGettingLongerAgain · 26/01/2026 20:22

Ringthebell26 · 26/01/2026 02:51

Hi

This midterm my family and I am going to Centerparcs with two other families(in laws)

I am a couple of stone overweight and hate how I look. My kids love the pool/slides but I am panicking at the thought of three days in swimwear in front of the rest of the group.

Could I get away with wearing a wetsuit? Maybe that is that ridiculous? Does anyone have any other ideas.

Thank you

OP - it's normal to be apprehensive about getting into swimwear - lots of other women at CP will be feeling the same way.

Getting the right swimsuit will make a huge difference to your confidence.
Check out some of the swimsuits with skirts as these are very flattering and look great too:

https://www.next.co.uk/shop/gender-women-productaffiliation-swimwear/style-swimdress

Ringthebell26 · 27/01/2026 02:07

Gingerbread987 · 26/01/2026 16:16

Hey
We were at centre Parcs two weeks ago. Lots of people in swimming shorts and a long sleeve swimsuits. Also a few in full wetsuits, although I suspect that was for religious/cultural reasons.
however I agree with the previous poster - choose something you feel is flattering and enjoy

I wonder is it too late for me to find God?? 😜😂

OP posts:
Newnetter123 · 27/01/2026 11:10

Completely understand your feelings as I felt the same (and spent a lot of time in the shallow toddler area too without water to even hide in!) but I just made a conscious decision to enjoy myself and my kids, you can’t change it in such a short period of time so focus on swimwear you feel comfortable in (shorts/rash vest is a good idea too, I wore shorts over my swim suit) and just try and focus on making the memories with the kids. And although I used to feel everyone must be staring at me in swimwear or when taking my weighty self out for a run the reality is no one is looking at me at all and if they are, that’s their issue not mine. All the best and have a lovely time when it comes!

TheUsualChaos · 27/01/2026 11:19

You'll boil alive in a wetsuit and tbh they are usually less flattering than any swimsuit and probably draw more attention.

The vast majority of us would feel body conscious in that situation, surrounded by extended family. But honestly, no one cares! They all know what size and shape you are with normal clothes on, being in a swimsuit isn't going to be a sudden shock. They will just be happy for you to be there with them having fun and your DC will be so happy and proud of you for joining in. I hope you have a great time!

Veryxonfused · 27/01/2026 19:36

Get a swimming costume with shorts, I tend to wear black costume, black shorts. Sort of ends up looking like an all in one.

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