The Fitness Divide


I nearly punched someone at the gym.


In some ways, I regret that I didn't. This would have made one of the most recent fitness trends worse.


I went to the gym for a weekend workout. Although the gym was busier than usual for this time of year, it was still busy. All types of movement were seen on the floor.


You can do burpees and bench presses at the same time, as well as butt shaking. (Yes, there was a person shaking their butt and doing some kind of dance routine.


One man stood out among the rest. The beanie he wore covered half his head, and the rest was hanging out. He was muscular and lean, but he was interacting with two beginners.

Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health Med Mens Health

I turned off my headphones to listen in as the beanie made fun of a stranger for being weaker. The beanie lifted his shirt and showed his 6-pack to an overweight man. He then said, "This is how it should look in here."


I've seen many dumb things at the gym.


In many ways, I have contributed to stupidity. In 2009, I was not paying attention to moving weight plates. I picked up a 45-pound plate, and put it in my mouth. This was definitely not my best moment. I had broken my front teeth, and had slammed on the weights so hard that they became one with me teeth. It was my attempt at grillz.


All of us have seen dumb things in the gym. It's often funny to tell jokes about it.


There is a big difference between making jokes, and creating a culture where beginners feel excluded or judged for every action they take.


It is easy to assume that they require thicker skin. Do not be a baby. We can't be in their shoes, and we don't know how they feel.


For those who don't feel comfortable in their bodies and the gym culture, it can be intimidating to go to the gym. Many people will tell you that if you feel like other people judge you, then you have larger problems. However, many of the most well-known brands of fitness have tried to solve this problem.


CrossFit is the place to be. CrossFit is a community that encourages people to feel comfortable. Why is P90X so popular? You can work out at home without going to the gym, and avoid that type of environment.


We often try to figure out why people don't get in better shape or can't go to the gym.


People are called lazy.


They lack motivation.


Do not think that you have enough time.


These might all be true, or they might help to solve the problem or create a barrier.


Many people try to start over every year, but they are often pushed aside. We should not make fun of, mock, or insult people doing the same stupid things we did, but be more supportive so they can learn and feel comfortable.


This is serious. Many people feel that the gym is not right for them. Some people are too sensitive. No doubt. However, this threat is overwhelming for many.


The truth is that people can stop worrying about being stupid or getting laughed at, and they can work hard, kick some arses, and make positive changes. The condescending, judgmental attitude must end.


It doesn't matter if we make the gym more inviting for people who love to lift weights and spend a lot of time at the gym. It is important to recognize their training style and allow them to do what they like, no matter if it is pushing a sled or lifting heavy weights. There are many others who feel uneasy and are looking for a healthier lifestyle, exercise, and fitness.


We all need to ensure we are on the same page, and foster a culture in which exercise, no matter your preference or level of expertise, is encouraged and treated as a positive thing.


Fitness is not just for you or me. It encompasses the Crossfitters and Crossfitters as well as the P90xers, Crossfitters, and cardio crew. Yes, I do have an opinion about what is the best and most effective.


However, I would rather someone finds their place and do something active than settle for a life of sedentary living and health problems.


Fitness is for all. Let's draw a line and open all doors, so everyone can choose what feels right for them. This is when fitness can thrive.


I urge you to all open your doors. This is #BeTheChange. Let's spread the word, and change the world.


Comments

Popular posts from this blog

What are the exercises for closing the larynx?

The Fitness Divide

The Fitness Divide