The Future of Fitness is FATNESS...According to Self Magazine | Body Positive

[@Michellemcd543]

Follow my second channel please 😘 😏 m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/i5fOYYWCZrKdmrs

[@robertnguyen9493]

Already do, love em both!

[@terejosh13]

girl you are goofy as hell I love it 😀

[@erickuzma8246]

Can we see a video about Tess Holidays therapist saying she's anorexic?

[@darkberryhip]

Thank you very much first time heard a fitness instructor saying that they hate Yoga 🧘‍♀️ lol because of the same reasons I don’t like it either! 🥰

[@sherisetodd7004]

Some people get a little bit of aerobics for the health benefits as opposed to reasons related to weight. Too much exercise has given some people heart attacks so I just mean a little aerobics for health. I see what you are saying though.

[@EC-tt3nj]

I had a friend of a friend on Facebook get very upset when I posted about my own decision to try and get back in shape after the first year of the pandemic. She really tried to guilt me into not dieting/post about it because she said diet culture was harmful to her. I'm allergic to cats but she has one, maybe I should have told her to get rid of her cat because cats are harmful to me? 😂

[@siennasamuel]

HA you should’ve 🤣

[@Linda-jl5lx]

Calling such an imbecile a "friend" is kinda stretching it... good luck with the change of lifestyle. I'm doing the same, counting the darn calories every day

[@EC-tt3nj]

@@Linda-jl5lx friend of a friend 🤷‍♀️

[@Martha-w7w9b]

@@EC-tt3nj is your friend

[@kathydelarosa1286]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@cwb1400]

Your comparison of putting an anorexic person like Eugenia on a front cover, and how everybody would throw a fit, says it all about obesity hypocrisy. Love your content!

[@erickuzma8246]

So apparently Tess Holiday says she's anorexic

[@mrs.h2725]

I actually follow this influencer on IG, as she fights for gay rights and cannabis legalization in her area of The South. It makes me so frustrated and sad to see her stuck in that toxic mindset of promoting obesity, especially as she's a southern black woman. I work in the medical field, and used to do diabetes screening and awareness events throughout the south. It's truly F'd up how culturally, black women are conditioned to believe they should be obese. Even though they have higher rates of diabetes, heart disease, dying in childbirth, etc. I really wish she would recognize how beneficial it would be to her community to promote being actually fit and healthy, rather than promoting disease and early death.

[@cwb1400]

@@erickuzma8246 yeah I heard that nonsense 😂

[@rebeccaspratling2865]

@@mrs.h2725 amen! 💯 I have no problem with anyone saying fat people are beautiful. Many of them are and besides beauty is subjective. But the whole healthy at any size is so cringe and it makes me shudder. They're setting up the youth for unhealthy lives. It's criminal.

[@niqaliaevans5004]

❤❤❤❤

[@mellowyellow415]

My former trainer told me that everybody at the gym is pretty much doing their own thing, achieving the same goal, trying not to drop a weight on their foot, keeping track of their reps. The last thing they're worried about is how fat is the person who just walked in. That was enough for me.

[@MrCmon113]

I do care and I judge you very harshly.

[@pixystixwhore]

@@MrCmon113 cry about it

[@AlexisMaria]

Exactlyyyyyyyyyyyy. That's why I started yoga lol I still get hit on but it's just not as bad as if I was in the gym

[@xdani_thethinkingneko]

20:37 Honestly, I'm scared to go because I'm scared that somebody like a influencer something will be filming, and I'll end up being in the background of somebody's while working out. Which is something I already feel nervous about... I mean I am in a healthy weight range, since I'm only around 125-30 @ 5'3". But I wanted to go to get more muscle 😢 but im scared lol. So I definitely think there are things we can do like not allowing people to film, that can make people feel safer. (Or maybe just during a certain time period they don't allow people to film) I definitely think there are things that can be done to make it more inclusive for people who are nervous to go, without taking away the parts of the gym that are imp ☺️ Especially since a lot of people feel nervous it's not just about people who are overweight.

[@kaki_maki403]

​@@MrCmon113 lol why? Isn't it good that they're at the gym trying to better themselves? Also aren't you busy worrying about yourself and your goals?

[@llibrescuinaimusica7273]

My mum is a bit fat and I bought her a six month sessions in the gym as a Cristhmas present. The other day she call me so happy and told me that the young boys of the gym were so encouraging and suportive to her. I was so happy for that

[@whispersweetnothingsuwu]

That's actually really cute aw

[@MelB868]

That was kind of an insensitive gift

[@Lucifer-vb8gd]

@@MelB868 was it though

[@MelB868]

@@Lucifer-vb8gd for a Christmas present yeah although I would like going to a gym that has a pool I would love to swim and take water aerobics even though I’m not old I just like being in the pool.

[@jeanneann3545]

@@MelB868 true, im surprised the mom didn't get offended. And im not even overweight.

[@gabrielhoelzle8476]

Michelle's intros are better than some Netflix series at this point xD

[@i.elpunkt8473]

I’ve witnessed a girl gym bullying another girl once. But that only lead to a lot of very fit people quickly defending the obese victim and call out the bully. Also the gym owner was called in and he warned her off, she (the bully of course) would be kicked out if that ever happened again. So I would say the hurdle of thinking you will be judged is mainly in people’s head. Usually the fitness community supports everyone that wants to make a healthy change.

[@racheldavis531]

I agree. Of course some people will have negative experiences, so I don't want to invalidate that by any means. But I think many people don't consider that a lot of the people in the gym have been overweight/obese before. That goes against the narrative that all diets and weight loss efforts are going to fail or whatever. But realistically, lots of people gain and lose weight over their lives. Maybe due to illness/hormonal changes/pregnancy, or maybe just due to changes in eating habits. So most people will just not care about a random person at the gym, and the people who do care are generally going to be encouraging. The rules of society still apply and if someone is being a colossal dick, people won't respond well and will likely defend the person being targeted

[@waughanloff1052]

Bro..most people in the gym is like really proud of overweight and fat people in the gym tryna lose weight

[@Kate-n2310]

As a gym rat, most fit people in the gym are usually super supportive of unhealthy people trying to make a change.

[@dilaisy_loone2846]

It does feel like people are laughing at you when you get out of breath tho

[@nestorfrancisco1230]

Yes

[@lesleymarie7005]

My friend had the exact opposite happen to her. She WAS over 300 pounds and she worked out for HER health!!! She said that she received encouragement from different members AND she found a workout Buddy that was already in shape. Fast forward to today she said that the anxiety of what people thought of her at the gym in the beginning was all in her head.

[@RandomFandomDragon]

This gives me hope, ty for sharing!

[@Laf631]

Exactly! It's like most places: no one cares what you're doing as long as you're not making a nuisance of yourself.

[@ninaasf-ck]

Yes! Most people in the gym are super nice and mind their own business. The only people that regularly catch sh*t are the guys who spend all their time flexing and walking back and forth in front of the mirrors instead of working out 😂

[@sarahh2072]

Wow she was so lucky to find a gym buddy!

[@JohnDoe-gy5dr]

At least in my experience, the easiest way to get made fun of in a gym is being inconsiderate no matter what your weight.

[@sassytarius7884]

As an obese woman who is working on weight loss (50 lbs down since my heaviest), I don't even bother talking with the "body positivity" crowd. Their insecurities are not my responsibility, my health and well-being are though. I stumbled onto your channel and I LOVE your attitude. I have never been shamed at the gym, yoga, martial arts classes, or any other place I go to put in the effort to better myself.

[@olyacarell6434]

God, please don't pay them ANY attention.

[@sunshinelefty]

😊 I wish you the Best on your Journey as I've lost 1/3 of my goal I understand! 😊

[@saltwatertaffy7020]

👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿👏🏿

[@ivanaandric5703]

Great attitude! That + effort = success!

[@Itsme.KatieG]

Good for you- I’m glad it has become less acceptable to shame overweight people, and I hope it’s easier for people to enjoy things at the beach and just enjoy their lives if they are overweight, but denying the health effects is crazy, and shaming thin people is so annoying!

[@Rissy617]

Safe space used to be a term for healing PTSD (before it was appropriated by extra sensitive people). When I felt triggered, I needed to envision my "safe space", something that could calm me down and help me to feel grounded in the moment. It was never something someone had to create for me, it was something I needed to do/create for myself.

[@Rissy617]

Adding: because it's important for me to take responsibility for my emotions and responses regardless of whatever crap happened to me in the past or in the present

[@kindauncool]

So true

[@lawsome2068]

While I didn't know that was the original purpose I always assumed it was supposed to function as you described.

[@clared5812]

While there is a kind of safe space you’re meant to visualize as part of a self-soothing exercise, this definition isn’t entirely true. A safe space in the way these people use it is supposed to refer to a space where a person feels safe enough to express their feelings without fear of persecution, no matter how strange, wrong, or taboo they might be. The function of a safe space, though, and this is what the FAs get wrong, is so that someone can objectively reflect on those feelings and change them into something healthier, which is easier to do in the absence of judgement, mockery, or anger. So these people are supposed to go to their safe space, and say how they truly feel: ex, I’m tired of being fat but I feel helpless to change. Or, I hate how I feel like everyone is constantly judging me for being fat, eating in public, working out while being fat, etc. Or, I feel like my life would be easier if everyone would just be nicer to me and make accommodations for my size. They’re allowed to have those feelings, and it can be healthy to express them - if they get a proper, objective response and not an echo chamber of validation. A safe space is supposed to be the kind of place where you feel comfortable and secure enough to hear hard truths. Like: I know it’s hard to be overweight and always have to deal with so many struggles that people at healthier weights don’t have to deal with, but you can’t expect or rely on the world to always change for you, you have to make changes for yourself. And that is a truly hard and exhausting thing, but that doesn’t mean it’s wrong. Maybe instead of getting angry at chairs, we could take a look at your unhealthy relationship with food and try to make changes so you won’t have to deal with these struggles anymore. That is the function of a safe space. It’s supposed to be a space where people can examine their own thoughts and feelings and change their thought patterns from one of victimizing themselves to one of being able to make proactive, healthy changes within themselves. It’s safe because they recognize that the people there care about them and are only trying to help, not attack or judge. But it doesn’t work when you surround yourself with yes-men who only care about validation and victimizing themselves and call any form of criticism or call to change an attack and the person who gave it is fundamentally bad. Telling other people that they’re perfect and should never change anything about themselves because they themselves don’t want to. That’s not a safe space. That’s a group of addicts. Thanks for coming to my ted talk. Lol.

[@BearPawSwipe]

You are talking about being accountable...they don't want to exist within the same world as accountability. I am glad that you were able to do this & I hope you are able to continue healing!

[@JessIcaMessika]

I remember being written up and retaliated against because at my old job my manager said something about me being disgustingly skinny and laughing (5'8 125lbs) so I told him he was disgustingly fat and laughed (he was like 300lbs at least and maybe an inch taller than me) everyone backed him up and told me I was a piece of shit for making fun of his weight. I was like, he made fun of mine?! They were saying skinny minny and I can't talk about someones weight like that and eat something and I was just like seriously? I can't stand double standards. Corporate even defending him and told me to be kind. I was like wtf he made fun of me first. But apparently being thin and toned I couldn't talk back.

[@kittysoftpaws3677]

Punch him All of them All they can do is roll and try to sit on you.

[@sunshinelefty]

HORRIFIC Double Standard!!!

[@itscc2004]

That place should be checked because wtf

[@neenasanchez1812]

You should have sued their asses!

[@aminahsaleem5214]

I get the same comments I get told to eat more and stuff but the minute I say to a big person eat less I’ll get shit for it and suddenly I’m the asshole I agree with you there mate

[@ssmith8758]

I love when overweight people come to the gym. It’s really inspiring. Hope they know that we all support them. 😊

[@1man1year150]

I will push back on this. For literal decades I was overweight and told I was extremely unhealthy... there was no "body positivity" for me besides my doctor telling me if I was positive, I would change it. 426 at my largest,... swore I was "healthy" because of the STUPID healthy at any size movement crap... well... I wasn't at all. I stayed this way until the day of my 40th birthday. Now, i'm 42, at 180, and ACTUALLY healthy and in shape now. Even after I lost the weight and got to 153 about 1 1/2 years ago (lost a little over 150 going from 310 at THAT time to 153), I still wasn't "in shape" I was just .... skinny now. my point? Weighing well over what you should doesn't make you healthy... neither does being too skinny... current me, at 180, which is heavier than I Was at my lowest, will kick my 153 pounds ass in lifting, and DEFINITELY way better at running.... Nobody is saying being overweight should be shamed, but we should also NOT LIE About being 300 plus pounds at 5'5" as being healthy because it isn't. If you lose breath going up 5 steps... your ass is unhealthy. If you can't run 1 city block without getting winded.... you're not "fit"... really don't care who I offend, we need to stop pandering to feelings and start being honest before we end up with a nation in even worse scenarios than now, and who has kids that are passing away before the parents due to obesity. Covid should have been enough to scare people into getting healthier. Well, obesity is the pandemic we face in actuality but because someone can scream on twitter that it's "phobic" and they are worried about being "cancelled" and because mainstream media is a crapstain that will then run with it trying to cancel the person further, it isn't talked about. As a nation, we have a horrible crisis at hand and if you noticed, the people with TONS of money and keep getting more rich, are never overweight... they don't eat at mcdonalds... they dont get fast food (for the most part) so maybe we should take note and instead of getting burrhut from the truth, actually do something about it. oh and nobody in the gym gives a S#$% about you being overweight, stop using that as ANOTHER excuse because YOU and EVERYONE around you knows the truth.... a lot of the people there are oblivious to you being there and in a LOT of cases, will TELL YOU to keep it up and you're doing a good job... so save me the excuses. Sorry, rant over.

[@MommaSkelly]

Don't be sorry Completely 100% agree with your rant. Can't like the post enough. There are a tiny few people that are assh0les in public spaces, but if you let them stop you, thats on you. Those assh0les shouldn't be important and if you let them stop you, you're letting them be important and win. Fk those assh0les ((sorry, phrasing)) Grats on the weight loss!!! It ain't easy, but nothing in life worth a damn is.

[@alleyernst7666]

I so appreciate this comment. I think covid is absolutely exacerbated by the obesity epidemic, yet no one is really talking about weight loss and health as a potential preventative factor...

[@1man1year150]

@@MommaSkelly I appreciate the response. I also really appreciate your kind words. It took me a lot to get where I am and I will never go back

[@1man1year150]

@@alleyernst7666 I agree and I don't think the the obesity part is mentioned nearly enough during this whole crazy time. I cannot express how thankful I am I'll thankful I am for losing the weight because because who knows what could could have transpired if I was still overweight and happened to have called it

[@lovelydeath04]

I mean....this is alot of truth that the fat positive community doesn't wanna hear

[@virginiarodriguez8732]

When I started going to the gym I was very scraed, I have heard so many "internet stories" of people saying "dont go to the gym unless you look good they will laugh at you" I believed my slightly chubby ass was going to experience a horrible time. Turns out people at the gym are very friendly, whenever I needed help because I did not understand a machine there would always be a gym bro, you know, one of those very muscular guys, coming to me asking if I needed help and being super friendly and understanding of my lack of experience in there. Most of my uncomfortable moments, which are very very few, were funny enough because of other women giving me nasty looks as if I was below them for not having their very fit body type or for speaking with the guys. Overall my fears were for nothing, I love the gym, and besides the annoying thirsty karen, it's a great experience! Edited to add: something that annoys me is how people scream at the word "diet" as if the only diets that exist are to lose weight. If I go from eating meat to not eating meat, it's called a vegetarian DIET, if I need to fix certain deficits on my daily DIET, it's a DIET. Diets are not just about losing weight, there are a lot of diets for different necessities and people need to stop treating them all as one thing, you know, like they ask to not be treated as if all fat people are lazy?

[@GigglewithFelix321]

Correct. Every time I see a larger person in the gym, male or female, I think "hell yeah, let's get it!". That's propaganda and I'm glad you were able to figure that out.

[@onnie.6815]

I’m pretty sure it’s just projection of insecurity to give them a reason to not go

[@gloriamancias698]

The first time I went to the gym I got made fun of by a trainer… to my face. I am very thin and was very weak at the time. People are sometimes just rude regardless of what your body type looks like. I realized it wasn’t even that bad getting laughed at, if the reward in the end was me improving myself. But I agree girl, there’s a lot of friendly people at the gym that don’t mind helping or are excited to share their workout tips with beginners lol

[@LostNFound432]

IME, people in the gym are the most friendly, stable, non-judgmental, positive people out there bc they're busy becoming their best selves and love to see others become their best selves too. It's the insecure couch potatoes who shame others bc they just want to feel better about themselves.

[@bxx1891]

When I went to the gym, and used to be fat people did not care they mind their business and continue to work out I see all types of different body types lol

[@esteehanvey5647]

overweight people at the gym are literally awesome. they’re making a change for LIFE, not just looks. they’re doing it for themselves. they’re inspiring 💅🏼

[@snickerdoodles787]

Exactly especially the obese ones they know that even after they lose weight they will still have a body thats not 100 percent aestitically pleasing, but they still push on for their health

[@shinigamimaxwell1839]

Unpopular opinion: You know what the problem is with everything getting the "safe space" treatment? Alot of the time, it becomes an excuse. I've heard more than once: "I stopped going to the gym cuz of X Y Z" and I'm like: "Nothing/Nobody says you hafta be inside a gym to get fit." and I'm treated with this bewildered look like I made it up even though I lost all my weight at home. I try to practice what I preach For the things we truly desire, there's always an answer. For everything else, there's always an excuse 🤷🤷🤷

[@kim_yong_un]

I didn’t visit any gym in losing 50lbs, i hate gyms. But walking outside, just at normal pace 10km a day with my music on and replacing sugary drinks for non-calory ones really helped already. No gym is no excuse.

[@BeardWulf]

It's a hard lesson looking at yourself and saying "You have no excuses left. Do something!" because from this moment on you can get fit and going back is pure denial and you know it.

[@Doris1981Bytom]

@@kim_yong_un Amen.

[@donion2122]

idk.. There was a time when I worked 3 FT jobs, lived with my bf (at the time) in a tiny room with all of our belongings, was recovering from pneumonia b/c of my asthma (that my lungs are permanently scarred from). I was in a car accident + live in a cold climate + we didn’t have room in our bedroom to work out, nor any room in the house we shared. I didn’t have the energy due to my bad back & neck + fluctuating thyroid issues + my endo issues. I had a great workout buddy & I still made it to the gym + ate healthy. If it wasn’t for my gym buddy + my friend who gave me her student ID card to access the gym (because we kinda looked alike) + my desperation to get out of my increasingly abusive & blackmailing relationship with my ex, I would’ve been very obese. 6 years prior to all that happening simultaneously, I had been very obese before & I will never ever let myself feel bad for it because I know I did everything I could. + it had been 6 years since I had last spoken to my abusive parents (who still controlled my both of younger siblings then, so they couldn’t talk to me) in many years. Without the gym, I had nowhere to work out. I was lucky it was a 5 min walk from my home. I’ve been in therapy for several years. My desire is to deprogram my mind, a total 180°, from everything I was conditioned to be since my earliest childhood memory, but, I finally understand that I shouldn’t see my mistakes and weaknesses as excuses. That’s what kept me in a hole. My therapy & finally opening up to my friends about the truth of my past has opened them up to taking out to their time to encourage growth. Therapy, a great brother & great friends are what many people can’t afford. I’m lucky enough to be able to work. I remember when I couldn’t physically work, nor get gov’t financial aid. I was getting food from food banks for many months, until I could work again. If it wasn’t for the people in my life calling me whenever I went M.I.A, who knows where I would be right now. I respect your opinion because I understand it comes from a place of encouragement & positivity. Sure, things can always be worse, I know that, but.. I’m just one of those people who will never say that there’s always an excuse. Peace ✌️

[@shinigamimaxwell1839]

@@donion2122 Thank you for respecting my opinion cuz you're right. It is from a place of encouragement. I want everybody to stop huddling behind "can't" and win. I just want everyone to win! 😭😭😭

[@leannafelts2276]

My issue with the gym isn’t that anyone is making fun of me or staring at me but just that my anxiety makes me believe everyone is judging me to be unworthy. It is entirely in my head and is all on me, no one else is to blame for me not going to the gym. For my own mental health I chose to work out at home and walk around the neighborhood.

[@soybean3423]

I completely understand you! With age (almost 30), I start to care less and less about what other people think and it feels amazing. But I still have to fight my fear of judgment sometimes. For example, I started jogging, but I don't wear special (sportsy) clothes, so some people who see me probably think I'm just in a hurry, which is kinda embarrassing (it happened once when one guy asked me why I was running but he was just trying to hit on me so maybe I should forget about it lol). Another example: I've been swimming for a while and when I try to suggest swimming to my friends who want to get fitter, they would tell me "Oh no I'm too embarrassed to show my body", whereas: 1. You see ALL kinds of bodies at the swimming pool!; and 2. NO ONE CARES! lol no one is there analyzing your body :) I was also shocked when a female friend (who is a few years older than me) told me "Swimming sucks because then you have to shave your legs". That was totally me when I was a teenager, but luckily I got over that, because, again: no one cares!!! Anyway, just wanted to share this, and hoping that you will also start caring less about people's judgment one day, one little step at a time :)

[@bikeshop2002]

I can't afford the gym anyway. Working out at home or jogging at the park has always worked great for me :)

[@teemonnorris8003]

Don’t go to the gym then…..there’s plenty of things you can do that’s not at the gym to get fit.Eat healthy and do calisthenics.

[@lm3729]

The caring less comes with age. The older you get, the less you care. It becomes very self evident that you cannot do shit with peoples opinions. It’s not like you can pay your rent or mortgage with their opinions, so it doesn’t matter if they think anything. But yes, you are right. It’s projection. You projecting your insecurities upon others thinking they are judging you, when it’s just you judging you. Most people don’t even care and the others wouldn’t even be aware of your presence. A majority of gym goers just go there for themselves, so they don’t pay attention to anyone but themselves (hence the mirrors). I feel you though, I’ve been there when I was younger. Now I’m just lazy. My logic is, why drive to the gym wasting time when I can just workout at home. Then again, I’m constantly at gyms training others, so I don’t really want to drive there to also train myself. Once you get older, you just won’t care if anyone cares about your weight

[@soybean3423]

@@lm3729 I agree with the age thing. Love your comment about the mirrors lol I didn't realize that (I've never set foot in a gym).

[@kellysehoun]

Omg that intro killed me. What would we do without Michelle 😅. If you see this, I’d like to know your opinion on the 75 hard challenge. Big fan from Montreal 🤍

[@Michellemcd543]

My lifestyle is pretty much similar to the challenge. BUT it wasn’t like that over night and def took longer than 75 days to get there! Not really a good starting point for people who’s started like me

[@mariaarzeno9251]

IKR? The acting was on point. I'm DYING 🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@phyzarel1845]

Wait but are we not going to talk about the fact that Yoshi ate that carrot??? Health at every size frrr lmaooo

[@kellysehoun]

@@phyzarel1845 i knowww we love a healthy queen

[@yawhatever00xx]

@@phyzarel1845 lol Health at Every Species

[@Sugar_The_Cowgirl]

My pet peeve is men and women using the gym as a dating meet up! I was at the gym one time and there were two teenage girls doing absolutely nothing one was sitting on the ONLY leg extention machine the other on the ONLY leg curl machine flirting with an obvious older man. I needed to use those machines, but out of gym etiquette I just used a few other machines and they were still sitting there doing absolutely NOTHING! One was on her phone at that point and the other was still flirting. I’m a pretty shy girl so I was afraid to disturb them, but I finally got tired of it and asked if they were still using the machines, they just looked at me and went back to talking, so I just decide to stand they are glaring at them until they finally moved. The girls walked on the treadmill for about five minutes then they got off took a drink out of their Hydro flask and left💀

[@Melora84]

Oh lord, this. One of the places I used to work, some thought I was going to the gym simply as a way to attract men. The fact that i may actually try to improve my health never seemed to occur to them.

[@HueyFreemansDeadAlt]

That sucks. I would've glared at them too.

[@Jessie12N]

I go to the gym to be alone, and I go cause I wanna loose weight, yet old guys won't stop talking to me (they are romantically interested). When they start talking and I dont wanna I just. . .*cues BITCH face*

[@sharpe52312]

@Reinhard von Lohengramm Machines are good for bodybuilders who want to isolate muscles and work on hypertrophy (the process of growing bigger muscles). Squats, deadlifts, and bench press are better for building strength and power, but can also be for hypertrophy. Since they are compound movements (use many muscles at once) they give you more bang for your buck but don’t provide the isolation that is optimal for muscle growth. If you’re a beginner I would recommend orienting and starting your workout with a compound movement with sets between 5-8 reps (a range where you develop strength and hypertrophy) and then performing supplemental work on machines with 10-20 rep sets for hypertrophy work. If you’re a beginner you probably want to grow your muscles at least a bit before you focus on more serious strength work.

[@scee8474]

One shy girl to another, proud of you. Been in the same situation minus the flirting but this girl was just sitting on her phone when I got there. Didn’t think it was a big deal as she was probably in between sets so I did the rest of my workouts first but after finishing all my sets she was just chilling there lol. Ended up leaving without using the leg press, which was my favorite machine.

[@kimberlyji-young555]

A few years ago during the first explosion of plus size "yogis" all of my friends, from thin to overweight, were so excited to see different bodies practicing yoga. They wanted to see a variety of people, different ages, different backgrounds, etc, and wanted them to feel welcome. Jessamyn Stanley does not represent that. I remember one of my closest friends, who is a healthy weight, signed up for one of my Jessamyn's workshops (this was before lockdowns obviously), and she wanted me to go. I didn't feel comfortable going. I've struggled to put on weight and REALLY struggled to build muscle my entire life, yet everyone assumes I'm some strict dieting fanatic, or even proana. I don't fall into any of Jessamyn's incredibly narrow and close-minded categories because gaining weight is difficult for me. Anyway, my friend went to the workshop, and I didn't. She called me after the workshop, she was crying. She was judged very heavily for being a healthy weight, and they assumed that she was proana.. She was the only person there who wasn't overweight or obese. I felt bad for letting her go alone, but I didn't want to destroy her optimism. She thought it would be relaxing and fun. Instead it was a stressful experience with adult women ganging up on an bullying another woman just because she isn't overweight. When she tried to share her experience on social media, guess what happened? The post was flagged so many times that it was automatically deleted. She didn't quit yoga, but she quit workshops for good. It's really sad that sisterhood only extends to a group that can make an individual feel better about themselves in the most superficial and unhealthy ways.

[@Adelynoir]

The irony that yoga in the west has been so horribly appropriated and leans into 'orientalism' territory by using symbols like OM, or statues of Devas without even knowing the name of the dev or even playing Hindu or Islam religious music back to back without even realizing it because to them it all sounds the same(listening to the music is t the problem of course, but there is a lot of cultural baggage that comes with the two). It is a scam to make money. Yoga is a personal act of discipline- if you want a yogi it should be one on one.

[@asana_awakening]

As a yoga teacher this is so disappointing.. I’m glad your friend didn’t quit yoga. If that’s the way that group acted they are missing the entire point of yoga!

[@stormyk244]

That’s disappointing. Yoga is supposed to be welcoming of all people. (And it can be a very strong workout! I’ve built quite a bit of muscle doing it daily. It’s a misconception that yoga is just stretching.) Yoga workshops can be a great way to meet people and get inspired in your practice. I hope your friend can one day find a class or workshop that is welcoming, and not a cliquey echo chamber.

[@carolallison9685]

Im just gonna say it. Isnt making yoga "more inclusive" technically cultural appropriation? So arent they wrong no matter what they do?

[@xSwordLilyx]

I also struggle to gain weight. It seems to be in my genetics/ related to limited stomach capacity. I eat whatever I want. I have always felt sick if I eat too much too fast. I got really sick once and lost 30 pounds and it took me several years to gain it back, still I weigh 5 or 10 pounds less and I was comfortably situated at 5 pounds less than now. The first ten pounds was easy but I would stuff myself to make more progress and it never actually worked. I eventually figured out that I have to eat vast majority healthy and increase my protein to gain any more weight because I would lose it. I think it may have something to do with migraines because you don't tolerate blood sugar swings so you avoid them by eating healthy. I was actually really surprised to see the scale go up when I just stepped on it. 155. I was 149 pounds every single time I stepped on the scale for a year. Year before was 151. I eat a salad every day pretty much and whatever else I want, a primary love being soup, chili, or stew, another chicken. I have migraines so I have to eat regularly and I learned recently I should be eating protein to stave them off, figure out how to make snacks high protein, I have been forced to eat breakfast when I prefer to wait until lunch, which makes me really hungry at lunch. I also have limits on my diet due to other health conditions that typically prevent me from eating things like pizza, or a lot of chocolate, and made me eat more fiber. I will have bouts of lack of appetite but the pain of migraines keeps me eating regardless. I think I have put on muscle. I thought I was lookin skinny, but I do feel pretty solid. I have been eating the protein but also craving sweets, I've been whittling away at 2 bottles of sweet tea, and think these 6 pounds are gonna be half muscle and half melt away when the craving is gone. Protein goes a little bit hand in hand with fat so there is also that.

[@caseystephens2683]

I started my fitness journey in a small, local gym in July 2020. This gym specializes in prep for bodybuilding (so basically, A LOT of beautiful people) as well as wellness, weight loss, and maintenance programs. I was so nervous to join because I looked like a potato compared to everyone else, but I have had nothing short of a fantastic experience. So far, I have lost over 100 pounds and started running in local events. The owner doesn't stand for anyone making fun of, recording, or harassing people. He believes the gym is for anyone who wants to be there and everyone should feel comfortable. How anyone could make fun of someone in the gym is beyond me.

[@bre6651]

Wow that's amazing, congrats!

[@caseystephens2683]

@@bre6651 Thank you! 😊

[@thetrickster3616]

🥰

[@caseystephens2683]

@@therealmayac Thank you so much! ❤

[@OokamiMisachan]

Have same experience in my local gym and I'm so glad for it. Congrats on your weight loss and keep on going :)

[@aprilf3243]

No one gets hassled at the gym. Everyone just has earbuds and minds their own damn business. There's nothing to "fix"

[@ourhaven]

Personally as an overweight teenager I agree. I mostly see people minding their business, some annoying boys trying to find their soulmate 😂 Anyway in my opinion, even though it might be intimidating, the gym is a safe place for all people

[@derp195]

Yeah, but it's a lot easier to go through uncomfortable imaginary situations and get yourself all psyched out and worked up.

[@OlyaOrton]

Wait.. "Every body is a fat body, and that includes "never-fats"?" Like, I've never been fat but I'm still a fat body?? Well damn, now I'm legitimately confused.

[@Michellemcd543]

Same lmfao!!!

[@madideruyter7479]

I agree that it’s a self confidence issue rather than an issue with the gym. I’m a college athlete and even just going into the weight room I used to be nervous that I wasn’t lifting enough but I realized I was more concerned about myself than anyone else and that’s how everyone else feels. Everyone is either focused on their own insecurities or they’re secure enough to focus on their workout.

[@consumerdebtchitchat]

I am 54 years old and have been a member of multiple gyms at the same time since the age of 27. I have never in my life seen any evidence of fat shaming in any gym I have ever stepped into from Oregon to florida. If I did see it I would call it out. But I've never seen it. I absolutely agree with your post. Well stated.

[@patienceholmes841]

I'm too scared to go to the gym but its a little less about self confidence but more that I'm scared of guys being creepy. Has that ever been an issue for you or not really? I don't want to pay money for a subscription and then be too scared to go back if I get harassed or smthg

[@DionysusCase]

@@patienceholmes841 I won't say that it doesn't happen to some, but I haven't personally experienced any of that. More often than not, most everyone is focused on themselves. If you're nervous I would try going during slightly busier times, and just do an observation of the people that go until you feel confident/comfortable enough to do your own thing. But of course, gyms aren't needed if you rather not go 😊

[@elisharmar]

I was nervous too when entering the weights room for the first time, the realisation that everyone including you is there for themselves and barely acknowledge others around them, there are people of all shapes and sizes at my gym, no one is mean, the few people I've interacted with when swapping in sets have been lovely, the gym is my happy place

[@mysterylovescompany2657]

I once got made fun of for how hard I was struggling with how little I was lifting, when I was in immediate rehab for a spinal injury. So there _are_ crummy ppl out there. But it's worth it to note that I just...changed gyms. There's always something you can do.

[@deckarddwizardd1909]

My first time going to the gym in 2019, I actually thought everyone is looking at me and judging me. After doing 2 months of personal training, I realized that people in the gym are fun. Everyone is hyped up with endorphins and nobody talks about sensitive topics such as politics or religion. It is as if everyone leave their problems at home and forgets about life when they're at the gym. I hope every gym is like mine so people are encouraged to workout, even just to forget their problems for a while.

[@MelB868]

I love it when people talk about religion

[@Jessie12N]

Nice! At my gym a bunch fat old guys sit in the jacuzzi for 3 hours and all they talk about is politics and religion. Sometimes I get angry when I wanna sit in the jacuzzi for 10 minutes to relax after my swim but the guys have been in there before I even got to the gym.

[@MegaThatonegirl]

I don't think the people writing these articles about attacking gym culture have ever stepped foot inside a gym. I've never seen or personally heard of anyone being made fun of for being too big, too small, not lifting heavy or even being mocked for wearing those weight lifting belts on literally every machine or while stretching. Not saying that it doesn't happen but I don't think it's to the scale they portray.

Well, you know, they saw that one episode of _King of the Hill,_ and completely missed the part about how the meatheads Bill got in with were actually kicked out of the local gyms for, well, being (gestures wildly) like that.

[@folded_pizza]

I have heard of it, but every person who takes about it said that it's generally understood by everyone that the person mocking other people in the gym is an asshole and doesn't deserve any attention. Imagine someone paying for a gym membership, and instead of utilising their time in there they observe and make fun of others who are minding their own business. Stupid, like all bullies.

[@jewlzn7130]

Yea, I've been to many many gyms. I have seen everyone minding their business, focusing on their weights and their music. No one makes fun of anyone

[@Tenebarum]

The only problem I’ve seen is people resting on the machines . It shouldn’t take more than 5 minutes for 3 sets, and you always let someone work in if they are waiting. If you have to collapse on the equipment you’re not ready for it. There is gym etiquette and people should learn it. That’s the biggest pet peeve people who are serious have, and it’s usually out of shape and seniors gasping on the machines.

[@ngndnd]

That kind of bullying only happens online. If you go to a gym, no one will start bullying you because that is just embarrassing (for the bully). The onyl way you will get made fun of at the gym is if you keep recording yourself or flexing shirtless when theres 20 other peiple around you

[@Laf631]

In the States, most people are overweight or obese. It's weird how articles like this talk about obesity like it's a mythical unicorn, and the only time you ever see it is watching the 1000 lb Sisters on TLC, and not, you know, literally every single day. Gyms have fat people working out at them too, and in my experience, the majority of the gym goers are overweight, because that's what society looks like. (And even the ones who aren't often have stories of "I started out two years ago, when I weighed 100 lbs more than I do today). I wish Americans would treat it more like the British hosts of "Secret Eaters" with this, "oh, really, you're just a rare medical marvel whose weight is completely unrelated to what you eat?" instead of acting like the 1% for whom that's true is the norm.

[@chris1275cc]

​@@Golden_Girl7123 The op said "In the States, most people are *overweight or obese*" So who or what are you correcting?

[@Golden_Girl7123]

@@chris1275cc the part about most people in the states are obese. Thats absolutely untrue

[@DanaCole]

More than one-third of adults in the United States are obese. In the United States, 36.5 percent of adults are obese. Another 32.5 percent of American adults are overweight. In all, more than two-thirds of adults in the United States are overweight or obese. Not good overall!

[@DanaCole]

@@Golden_Girl7123 Why would I look up the Middle East? The OP didn’t say people in the USA are the fattest or most unhealthiest in the World. 🤷🏽‍♀️

[@sandy_carpetsthesecond5013]

@@Golden_Girl7123 Yeah but sugar isn't the only thing that contributes to weight. America particularly loves greasy and oily foods- All of which are incredibly high in fat. Olive Oil has a lot of nutrients in it and is used to fry things, but it's incredibly fattenning in high quantities. If you read the back, all the energy it gives you is from the fat in it. Not to mention that The Middle Eat (or most countries outside of America in general) are a lot less car dependant and you can get from one area to another relatively easily without the need of a car so they're generally more active aswell. It's not just food that causes it. It's a bunch of other things like noise pollution, lack of activity and stress to label a few things, but America is really bad for being overweight.

[@kendraknaggs8163]

When I was at my heaviest 350lbs I started walking on the treadmill at the gym. After 50lbs down I started to add some light weight lifting. Not only did no one make fun of me people working out would often offer me advice in a very caring way, and encourage me. I'm down 170lbs now still have a way to go, but I found the gym experience as a morbidly Obese women very positive.

[@kelseyw.3315]

My highest weight is 343.2 and I’m 4.8 points down since 4/23. Goal is to lose 170 pounds. This is inspiring to me!

[@LauraMC6882]

Wow!! 170lbs… that’s amazing!!! 👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽👏🏽

[@emilybaldwin1437]

Amazing! I’m looking to lose about 120 lbs. I’ve lost nearly 20 so far, got a long way to go but this comment inspired me to stay strong 😊

[@95mudshovel]

I was chilling in my wheelchair in the gym after Jiujitsu yesterday while waiting for my ride. there was an overweight lady GETTING IT with deadlifts so I rolled up next to her and mat-talked her while she did her last set. she was lovely! I enjoy cheering people on while they grind in the gym, especially the folks who might be more insecure being there.

[@aliairving]

You’re awesome! I bet that meant a lot to her, she might think of that moment every time she’s at the gym. maybe you answered her prayer by providing support and motivation. This is awesome Michaela! Keep rocking & rollin ❤️💪🏼

[@scoobydoo7220]

Ooh! Is Jujitsu fun? I wanna join a martial art, but I've been so indecisive and putting it off 😅

[@caiofernando]

@@scoobydoo7220 It's probably the best martial art for you to train. Lower impact than others and very effective in real-life scenarios. Also, very fun.

[@95mudshovel]

@@scoobydoo7220 it's SO fun!! and great exercise for people like me who can't do stuff standing up! I giggle every time I get swept, I love it.

[@neteruhathor]

Good for you!! That made me smile😊

[@JanetSnakehole28]

I remember there was a chain of 'fat chicks only' gyms in the 90's & it went out of business pretty much immediately because, shock horror, fat chicks weren't using them. This whole Carrie White thing of 'they're all gonna laugh at you!' is a self esteem issue, not a cultural issue. Fun fact - an external locus of control, where someone's self worth is dependent on other people changing, is a characteristic of many cluster b personality disorders (cough, Tess Holliday, cough)

[@BassetHoundCharlie350]

I used to work at a gym that went through a name change. They seriously considered "Fitness for Fat People" as a name. Luckily they didn't choose it

[@JuliannaHolmes]

The feeling fat people get in the gym that “everyone is judging them” is only in their head… 99.9% of the time. Everyone else is largely focused on their own workout. And personally I think it’s cool seeing a larger person get after in the gym, trying to better themselves. Good for you!

[@WiseAilbhean]

I probably said this a 100x, you can be big and have a healthy heart and move with the body just fine. However! Your bones will not forgive you for the weight. They don’t get stronger as you age, you don’t grow new ligaments after it wears out and the human bone can only support so much weight it isn’t made of steel to support a skyscraper. Overweight active people wear down their bones and joints and ligaments quicker than most ideal weight active people.

[@johannas.l.brushane2518]

That is such a good point. Moreover, the bonedensity tend to lessen as we becomes older, when testosteron and estrogenproduction start to slow down.

[@schmalice666]

Overweight people are also more likely to become disabled due to injury for this reason and being active increases odds of injury. It's an unfortunate cycle.

[@WiseAilbhean]

@@johannas.l.brushane2518 Exactly! And women naturally have a lower bone density than men and are some women even have even lower bone density either from poor nutrition (sometimes not their fault, some people weren’t fed properly as children) or illness, medications, hereditary reasons. An obese person may have the energy and will to do 200 jumping jacks. But that high impact on the joints will hurt. And when it comes time for them to drop the weight they are physically challenged due to stress on the bones. Some have stopped mid journey because their knees and feet hurt.

[@WiseAilbhean]

@@schmalice666 There was a contestant on “biggest loser” god bless her she was doing her best to drop the weight. Returning home for the break, she kept up with her routine but developed discomfort in her ankles and foot had to see a doctor. She had to take a break from physical exercise. She had the will but the body’s foundation had limits. Side note, Martha Stewart who is in her 80s, her trainer has her do exercises on 1 leg at a time, to improve strength in maintaining balance. Getting older, fall risk increase and falling at that age is no joke.

[@joylastname3035]

My best friend in high school back then told me that a doctor told her great aunt she would need to lose weight because her knees could no longer support her weight and it would only be a matter of time before she would no longer be able to walk. She went in complaining about knee problems.

[@miacontouli2493]

I've never faced any kind of discrimination in a gym even when I was obese. I have a borderline underweight friend who gets abused and bullied by fat people at work, at the shops, walking down the street tho.

[@AshCupric]

I actually used to be about 60 pounds heavier, I was pretty chubby but not obese. Guys would often hit on me and say creepy pick up lines that were super gross/ inappropriate. I developed an autoimmune disease and got down to 103 pounds (which is actually still a normal weight range for my BMI because I’m pretty short). Suddenly dudes kept telling me I would look better with “more meat on my bones” or that I have the body of a middle schooler. I’m not saying that people of all shapes/ sizes don’t ever experience discrimination or encounter assholes, but I can personally attest that “skinny shamming” is a thing!

[@maryssaann]

I was hated at a job I had in the past. I’m 5’1” and always been under 110 pounds so when I started going to the gym for weight lifting I was always teased but “in a nice way” of course 🙄🤮 people really think it’s okay take how they feel about themselves out in someone who’s just trying to be the healthiest version of herself. I’ve been skinny shamed throughout my life.

[@maryssaann]

@rjane 17 thank you, and I hope you do too! We do our best to have healthy lifestyles and are judged mostly by people who don’t do anything to improve or save their health. Hang in there and stay strong, no pun intended ❤️💪🏻

[@kathydelarosa1286]

My boss tells me I’m skinny for no reason and it looks like I don’t eat. People are disgusting

[@MelB868]

@@AshCupric 103 is tiny gain some weight

[@al-rediph]

What I thought body positivity and inclusivity means: accepting that overweight and obese people deserve respect, care, and support to no longer define themself by their body (and disabilities) in order to be able to change their lives to achieve a healthier version of themselves. What I learned body positivity actually means: overweight and obese people must make their condition a key and unchangeable part of their identity, deny any medical consequences or the disabilities linked to it, take offense at medical facts showing overweight and obesity are a clear signal you are not healthy. And call anything which challenges this cognitive dissonance state discriminatory. To be honest, I do think clothing companies should include bigger sizes in their collection. For many overweight/obese people, not being able to dress properly is additional stress which keeps them from getting out, doing some exercise builds social connections which help them do more than just feel sorry and eat to compensate. It may sound counterintuitive, but helping overweight and obese people to feel better about themselves, will increase the motivation to lose weight and get healthier.

[@MsJubjubbird]

i think the last part of your comment is a financial issue. Obviously bigger items cost more money because they need more fabric. But also once an outfit goes above a certain size, the pattern changes and they would have to spend the time and money making a new one. Because once a person is bigger, the natural shape of the body is different- so like for most healthy weight women, their shape would be some variation of an 8. Whereas a very obese woman would be more like a 0. Then from the retailer's perspective, they'll stock items they think they can sell more of0 the idea it to sell everything you ordered. Go to nice boutique or department stores that sell nice clothes and most of their clients will actually be a healthy weight- because obesity is less common in middle and upper socioeconomic areas for various reasons. It's not a coincidence that cheaper stores tend to stock more larger sizes.

[@MrsLilpiglet]

As a current fat chick, who's working to be a former fat, I approve of all fat chick videos. They are my absolute favorite as these people are straight up crazy!! I can't wait for more!!

[@ezekielsmith3571]

good luck on your journey!

[@GabbieCh]

I'm sure these videos are motivating you to be nothing like those people. Good luck with your goals and stay consistent!

[@jetnight88]

You are fa… NO GOD NO. Why and how

[@Jgfvids]

I actually saw this magazine and I almost fell off my chair 😭😭. I’m down 75lb in 2 months now.. Loving my weight loss journey so far. These magazine articles are really inspiring me on what NOT to do 🤣

[@MattRifeToons]

Hint: whatever is mainstream, do the opposite! Good job. Subbing to you now 👍

[@rifeanimated]

Really enjoying your weight loss vids Jamal!

[@crossfirekid3253]

75lb in 2 months is a lot!! I’m subbing to you cos I need to lose weight and your vids are pretty good

[@taquito.trasgo]

Hey bro, I just subbed and I’m rooting for you! Love your positive energy!

[@Jgfvids]

@@taquito.trasgo thank you so much my dude!

[@littlebee8311]

I'm overweight and am afraid to go to the gym, so i now work out everyday at home until i'm a bit fitter so i feel more comfortable doing sports in front of other people. There is always a way if you really want to change something. I'm one week in and lost 2kg and i'm already feeling so much better. I love your videos! Thank you so much for the motivation. :) (and sorry for my bad english)

[@anninfifi]

you can do it!! ♥♥♥

[@littlebee8311]

@@anninfifi Thank you so much ♡♡♡

[@FeatherstoneApothecary]

if you find the right gym it won't matter. I lost 70lbs in 3 months walking 2 miles per day 3 days a week. just walking. totally possible for you ❤ try a gym buddy that may help too.

[@chelseasmith1426]

I've been going to the gym consistently for over ten years and bc I have anxiety in always worried and feeling self conscious.. but the reality is, I've never had anyone even be remotely unkind to me and in fact, on multiple occasions someone has come to offer me a tip or help fix my form! I hope you achieve everything you want from your fitness journey and one day don't feel fear about going anywhere!

[@danylove4214]

Go girl, the gym is free judgmental space. No ones care too be honest.

[@leonieschnieders190]

Clothing is meant to fit you, you aren't meant to fit a certain piece of clothing. But the fact that Tammy is able to wear clothing at all is both a miracle and a blessing to our eyes.

[@NeonRogue3]

Lmao

[@antsardina9309]

This is comedy gold 😂

[@ifykyk679]

Gold pure gold.

[@m.a.7552]

Never really thought about this but u are right, im surprised she can still buy clothes that fit her

[@drizzy4466]

She can probly only wash one or 2 outfits at a time!

[@deepsea5348]

She forgot another group; the Can’t Fats. You know, the people who have health conditions or genetic traits that make it nearly impossible to get fat, even if they tried.

[@galeforce3192]

Yep. My mom's got this one. She only seemed to reach her peak weight of 160 lbs in college thanks to building up muscle from playing sports. Then she got really sick some time before I was born, lost a lot of weight from it, and never gained it back (down to ~120). Then she got sick _again_ a few years ago and still hasn't gained weight back (I don't think she's back up to 100 yet). Her doctor keeps pushing her to eat more, but for as long as I can remember, she's never had much of an appetite. She always eats small meals, and she almost never eats snacks.

[@TabithaElkins]

If I fill my stomach, I get terrible heartburn. I have to eat small amounts due to having a tiny bird stomach. I really think I would feel terrible pain if I ate a lot. It's no wonder that I never got above 135 pounds.

[@Lill2895]

@GlobalDataConspirator no, more like metabolism lol it has nothing to do with discipline. A lot of people who can't gain any weight do over eat but it just doesn't stick.

[@agitatedbeetle3068]

I don't have a condition but I can't gain weight because of stress. I barely feel hungry because of it so I don't eat much and when I know something will be really stressful to me during the day (a doctor appointment or an important exam etc.) I can't eat anything because I'll just throw up. It doesn't matter whether I eat much or even just drink water.

[@eslChelsea]

Lol. I eat like a pig and only seem to get "chubby", mainly a little extra meat on my arms and legs. But it doesn't look strange. I still fit into a size 8 regardless. Thank all that is good 😅😅🤣🤣

[@inferiorinferno8859]

My mom was on the other hand of the spectrum. Before menopause slowed down her metabolism, she struggled with gaining weight. Her nickname was 'Bones', even though she eats more then I do. She always loved going to the gym and told me that about how when she was young, she was just a frightened twig of a young woman, feeling insecure at her first time to the gym. She told me how lovely everyone was to her, giving her advice and how the scary, big buff men were in reality friendly dudes willing to teach her some things about the machines. I also have only positive stories about working out. I broke down crying this one time during my lyra (acrobatic) classes, and I never felt sisterhood like I did at the dance studio we train at.

[@brever12]

It’s so crazy to me that during this pandemic - where it is well documented that obese people are at a much higher risk of hospitalization and death - obesity is being promoted and encouraged and being healthy is shamed and discouraged. Like… I’m overweight (not obese thankfully) and I’ve been working to lose it. Especially since this all started.

[@BearPawSwipe]

Glad you are making that change for yourself and your health! Keep up the good work and it won't just be reducing COVID risk but all risks that only get worse as you age.

[@tammybagwell1741]

It's well documented but not well reported soooooo hey get vaccinated get a free donut. Makes you think doesn't it

[@brever12]

@@tammybagwell1741 yeah I did NOT understand those campaigns. Free donuts, pizza, cheeseburgers, and weed. 😂

[@brever12]

@@BearPawSwipe thank you! It is amazing to me how minimized a lot of the health issues associated with obesity are.

[@MioMillefeuille]

I think we should let them be. So they can all die. (The crazy toxic hypocritical ones)

[@myarmsretreat]

I’ve been wanting to have the discipline to lose weight for years. The Health at Every Size movement and the people arguing that obese is okay are what finally got me off my ass to finally start. 60 pounds down, 100 to go!

[@angiemaritza2408]

LETS GOOOO ! same with you💪🏽

[@snooganslestat2030]

Well done!

[@myarmsretreat]

@@angiemaritza2408 We got this! 💪🏻

[@Fizzyguy201Sonicguy6]

I'm still trying to lose weight, 4 years after leaving fat acceptance community I've felt better about myself. I will keep trying to lose weight just to annoy them.

[@donaldbothe3518]

same. I lost a good 40 (230-185) and have gained a bit back over holidays (200), but seeing fat acceptance and videos from my 600 pound life scared me off of my ass. I need to work to lose weight because i am not metabolically blessed, but I never want to end up with a crazy weight.

[@profleapstrum506]

When I first started my weight-loss I had nothing but support from fit people. I only was ever ridiculed by other fat people who occasionally attempted sabotage. I legitimately had someone put more food on my plate at a family style dinner because, and I quote, "You're getting to skinny, eat more." I weighed 200 at 5'6. Misery loves company

[@NoahTheLion-bj8kc]

I am a 15 years old female about 5'7 and i was about to hit 164 pounds. School, family problems, and race issues took a big toll on my life and i started to stress eat. My "friend" who weighed about 246 told me that it was okay and it was good i was gaining because i looked too skinny. Thats when i started to eat so much. I thought being fat or chubby would be okay. But when i went to my doctor she told me the truth. It was tough to hear that i was about to be obese if i continued or i would get diabetes but however, im glad she told the truth. She helped me set up a diet and signed me up for therapy. Now i weight about 134 pounds and im starting to workout more so i can get abs and get muscles. It was very hard to quit stress eating and just sitting around all day but with tough love from my partner and doctor, i managed to pull through. And seeing your channel is also a confidence booster for me because seeing all theses people make me wanna eat healthy and workout more. And once i save up alittle more money ill be buying the donuts you sell. Ive been craving sweets for the longest now and ill be nice to eat a sweet treat without worrying if its unhealthy

[@MarjorieStewartBaxter]

So happy for you! 😊

[@GabbieCh]

I'm so glad that you got the right help! Many people are only surrounded by negative influences. You can get protein bars, there are many variations. Some of them taste horribly, but some of them are really tasty and have little to no sugar. They're actually sweeter than sugar, I just had one and couldn't finish it because it was too sweet for me, and it only has 2 grams of sugar. You can find so many sweet things with protein and barely any sugar, so you don't need to resist your cravings, but you also don't need to ruin your diet.

[@janedoll3237]

Did your friend flake when you lost the weight? Good job by the way

[@NoahTheLion-bj8kc]

@@janedoll3237 Yes lol! She started calling me fatphobic because i lost weight. But i ignore her most of the time because ik that she is and will always be so closed minded and will think negative about everything.

[@Bikerider8962]

Btw to add to your point about "gym bullying". I've only seen support if anything. When I first started teaching myself how to bench, the two biggest guys in the gym helped me out with my bench. These guys could have passed for professional strong men, they noticed me struggling and helped me out. I didn't even know about leg drive at the time with the bench lol. I spent a few years teaching myself proper form with the compounds, feeling the lifts, etc. No one ever gave me shit. People would actually occasionally help me out. I think some people tend to hear their insecurities and simply assume people are being mean.

[@Blablabla45678]

when i was in high school I was obese and I started going to the gym. No one made fun of me. I ended up getting in really good shape and lots of strangers at the gym encouraged me along the way and helped me to fix my form and get better.

[@leii1306]

When I was fat I was never mistreated in a gym. But at the same time, I myself felt out of place there. Surrounded by all those fit people, me and them in light, sport clothes I felt very uncomfortable (however, like I said, nobody tried to cause those feelings in me).

[@derp195]

Tbf, I'm pretty slim, and I would also feel very out of place at a gym. It's a strange environment that I've never been in, and I would feel weird, uncomfortable, and self conscious.

[@julianofmadagascar]

I feel strange if the gym is very posh - I just don't fit in my old sweating pants and a T shirt that has lost all its colour. Everybody has smartwatches and other complicated gadgets to monitor their progress and wear super expensive wireless headphones. What did I do? Changed the place to a small local gym where the wealth levels are much more varied 👍

[@whyspersong]

So, my concern with making "fatness" become an example of "fit" is that I spent almost a year floundering trying to figure out a good diet after being told I was a type 2 diabetic. I finally, tearfully went to the doctor and begged to speak to a dietician because I was unable to regulate my glucose level. I don't want to see people struggling with understanding what fitness is like I had to struggle with dieting due to all the "information" about fad diets.

[@alloriavarner8304]

I guess I am what Michele would call “skinny fat” I am petite but I don’t work so I’m very squishy lol. But type 2 diabetes runs in my family & I’m pretty sure I’m already prediabetic. I can’t seem to get my hypoglycemia under control & I have no idea how food works. I’m actually very worried about getting diabetes now rather than later (in my 60s like my other family members).

[@mattdonlan7745]

@@alloriavarner8304 Hi Alloria. I was in your shoes exactly two years ago at age 50. Pre-diabetic and no clue how food actually worked. I started looking into how the body uses and converts different foods into fuel or fat. It was eye opening to say the least. Almost everything I had been told by "experts' was actually making things worse. I learned a great deal about food and the science of food from Dr. Sten Ekberg. He has a great KZbin channel with hundreds of helpful videos for anyone struggling with hypoglycemia, diabetes, diets, sugar addiction, etc. If you like to know the science behind what you're eating, he's a great place to start. Hope you find your answers!

[@tommycharles4666]

Ketogenic. That's the diet for a type 2 diabetic. Anything else will make your condition worse. Eating refined carbs leaves you reliant on insulin injections, which means you are just managing symptoms and ignoring the cause (insulin resistance).

[@alloriavarner8304]

@@mattdonlan7745 thank you so much for the advice! I’m only 21 & have had hypoglycemia since I was 17/18 (I know I know I should’ve gone to a dr a while ago) didn’t think much of it until my mom got diagnosed with diabetes at only 50. Got it a decade younger than our other family members who got it in their 60s/70s. I was always told that the only thing I really could do was delay diabetes not prevent due to our notoriously crappy pancreases. But as for your advice, I will look into it. Thank you!

[@alloriavarner8304]

@Lost pelican I’ve been having hypoglycemia since I was 17/18 & I’m now 21 & my hypoglycemia has become more frequent. It sucks. I think I will have to see a dietician to help me out cause I… just don’t have a good relationship with food. Especially now. All this stress is making want to starve just to spite my stupid pancreas. I won’t though.

[@xalciaqx9026]

I joined gym this year. I was nervous because i was the youngest girl here working out (15 years). But my worries were unreasonable. Everyone here were so supportive. I remember my first time when i couldn't find the changing rooms or treadmills, and some older buff man came and helped me out. Now that I'm some months here, i really feel a sense of belonging. Unless I'm sick or have a really important thing to do i always try to show up. As the youngest bodybuilder here, the staff recognizes me and we small talk every time. I feel so seen and everytime i finish workouts, i have a lot of physical and mental energy. I went from 23% body fat to 17% and still counting. I don't wanna say gym changed my whole life, but definitely most aspects of it.

[@xalciaqx9026]

Update: i became chronically ill. Had to say bye to the gym. My heart is in shambles.

[@dalilla2505]

@@xalciaqx9026 how are you,love ? How are doing ? 🤎

[@leiarai5675]

@@xalciaqx9026 that is devastating I am so sorry that got taken from you.

[@ayndie38]

Actually, a 'never fat' person could be like my cousin, who has tried all of her life to gain weight and has always just been really thin. She tried protein shakes, high fat diets, high carb diets, you name it. She never had an 'I will never be fat' attitude, or acted like she was terrified of gaining weight. She tried for years and never was successful at it, so she finally just gave in, ate what she liked and accepted herself as she was. Some people are never fat, just because they aren't fat. They're not actively doing their all to avoid gaining weight, that's just the way their metabolism works.

[@cheekybabe666]

They like to ignore that yes, some people are just skinny. As a below non-fat (skinny) teen that has become a mostly always fat adult that's trying to become a low-fat former fat (lol, the whole thing's ridiculous) it sucks but it's true, some people will have to bust their ass to control their weight everyday. Fight the fat, people.

[@sabrinagonzalez9665]

Omg it’s me

[@Vasilia4]

Most people aren't like that. Eugenia keeps claiming she is the way she looks because of her metabolism

[@ilickgrandmas2854]

@@Vasilia4 just like most people aren't fat as long as they don't over eat

[@alexandranickerson805]

My boyfriend is like that! 6’2 and 140 pounds. He eats tons of food all day long and is really self conscious of his skinny body but can’t put on weight to save his life lol.

[@CoushattaL]

When I was 188 I was so uncomfortable and felt disgusting. I started counting calories and working out more and got to 143! I felt so good! I started to become more confident. So happy but my depression got hold me again and now I'm back to 164 and I yet again feel so uncomfortable and bad. I am struggling because my depression but I refuse to go into this insane reality where everyone is obese and unhealthy. Screw that. I come from an obese family and they are limited on things they can do and take so much medicine to be okay. I refuse to be this way. You can be beautiful at all sizes but healthy? No. Just no. Love your videos!!

[@chiarab34a41]

In kg? P l e a s e

[@andyf3269]

@@chiarab34a41 74 kilos

[@chiarab34a41]

@@andyf3269 t n x!

[@che7941]

@Kumani Davis you can do it 🙏 I know how both of you feel. Been there too (196) now on 155. Honestly my biggest problem has always been ( and I dont see many people talking about it ), to think that healthy food is either disgusting OR/AND fancy and expensive. I always thought "oh I cant afford to have that fancy smoothie bowl and the avocado kale whatever dish every single day". But there are so, so many cheap, tasty and healthy dishes you can do... Are they pretty to look at ? No. But really who cares. I can really recommend looking into south/west/central asian and eastern/southeastern european dishes. So affordable and really easy to make :) I never thought I would love so many cabbage and bean dishes 😂

[@BearPawSwipe]

The one thing that stuck with me was that health is not a destination it is a journey (trite I know). We are going to stumble & fall but in those moments, it is what we do next that matter. We get back on track and we recognize that this was a moment in our journey. Let yourself have those moments & just realize that it isn't the end. Keep up the good work!

[@Greenchrysopsaro]

The opening was only 1:40 but honestly I was getting pumped up for the whole story..... then brought back to reality 😢

[@raspberryjam348]

Michelle, you’re becoming more and more of a positive influence in my daily routines and journey to get healthy. I’m having severe anxiety lately and am not doing my best to get healthy, but I find watching your videos at the very least helps keep me from going completely out of control and into my past binger self. So, thanks! (And as others have said already, your intros just keeping getter better!)

[@robertnguyen9493]

Michelle does bring a bit of sunshine into the day. And I wish you the best in your journey, stay strong.

[@raspberryjam348]

@@robertnguyen9493 thank you very much, that’s brightened up my morning already ☺️❤️

[@robertnguyen9493]

@@raspberryjam348 well part of this community is positivity, and I love to see people succeed at their personal goals. Just remember, dedication and persistence is the best way to reach your goals. And as Jor-el (Superman’s dad) said, “they will stumble and they will fall, but in the end they will join you in the sun!”

[@Laforte1981]

Im classed as obese, 176lbs and 5ft 1. Literally loving the gym and fitness as well as eating more healthily. I've lost nearly 20lbs but still a long way to go. Not once has anyone ever made fun of me in the gym. If I've ever needed advice or help, other gym goers have always been kind and helpful. Always felt welcome. Your channel has helped me so much with my confidence on this journey. Thank you!❤

[@OMAR-vk9pi]

That’s dope keep it up!

[@milkshake2659]

Get it girl!

[@Laforte1981]

Thank you both so much, it means alot 💓

[@Lill2895]

That's impressive. Congrats on your newfound love of the gym 💪🏾

[@brandi6087]

@@Laforte1981 I am 4'11 and was 178 and went to the gym as well and never had a bad experience. Like you said everyone was super nice as I was there trying to help better myself. I have lost 41 pounds and still have a way to go but am getting healthier every single day! Keep up the good work girl!! We got this!

[@jennafishy97]

Can we all just take a moment to appreciate how much time and effort to make these videos?

[@peachycute3034]

I think a lot of people are projecting experiences they had in school and on the internet onto everyday life, it's the same feeling we all get when we pass a group of teen-agers who haven't even noticed us but because we have all been subjected and been the subjecter of bullying we get a bit insecure and paranoid

[@robertnguyen9493]

First off, that opening was awesome! Second, I work at a gym and I have never once in 7 1/2 years of working in gyms have I ever see anyone make fun of or mock an overweight person in the gym. Now granted, just because I’ve not seen it doesn’t mean it doesn’t ever happen, but I have never encounter gym bullying, which is exactly what it is. For the most part at the gym nobody cares, unless you’re doing something ridiculous or weird that could get them hurt. Or if you’re doing bicep curls in the squat rack or hoarding weight’s. But for the most part everyone is focused on themselves, even the gym bro checking himself out in the mirror, he’s literally focused solely on himself.

[@ivey06]

That last part cracked me up 🤣

[@robertnguyen9493]

@@ivey06 especially her running across the green screens

[@carolallison9685]

Ill admit i got mad once at some overweight women at the gym and said some not so nice things to my husband in the car later that night, but let me explain. So my husband and i had been waiting for over 30 minutes for some machines. These girls were sitting on the machines we needed to use, not working out, but talking and attempting to flirt with guys. We asked if we could work in and they told us no. So we ended up leaving. Now these girls had been going to the gym for about six months at this point, and actually got fatter during this time. So my comment to my husband, was "maybe if they actually used the machines instead of just sitting on them and trying to flirt with guys who arent interested, maybe they would have lost some fat by now". Now thats the only ive ever said anything like that and its only because i was so pissed at their poor gym etiquette.

[@robertnguyen9493]

@@carolallison9685 well they were practicing terrible gym etiquette, which pisses me off to no end. Seriously, it’s right up there with not re-racking your weights, or putting them in a ridiculous order like a 5lb, two 25’s and a 45. And you weren’t making fun of them for trying to work out and improve on their health and fitness, you were blowing off steam because they were taking up space and disturbing other people in the gym. So I get in. I get the feeling you’d of been just as pissed off if it was a couple of young petite girls doing the same thing.

[@Myaccount923]

@@carolallison9685 but you didn’t say it to them so it doesn’t even count! Not like you bullied them at the gym. It is annoying asf when people hog machines

[@medusagorgo5146]

My husband goes to the gym regularly, (I used to) when he sees someone who is obese, he doesn’t shame them, he encourages them. When he goes for a run, he doesn’t put them down for going slow. These people are doing the work and they should be applauded. You can’t get down on someone who is trying to better themselves. That’s really bad form.

[@darkydoom]

Girl, I'm so proud of myself, I thought you'd like this story. So I struggled to lose my final baby weight (3 pregnancies, lost it all 3x), I had a lot of injuries that were being misdiagnosed and I had to give up the gym (where I gained the weight back). Long story short, spinal surgeon ordered me to lose at least 10kg and see me again in a year. Fast forward 1 year, he orders my spinal surgery; He comes and sees me the day after the surgery (last week) and he's like, "HOW MUCH WEIGHT DID YOU LOSE?!" and I'm just like... "ah 15kg, why?" And he's smiling saying, "just wow, usually when I tell patients to lose weight they don't! You did great." 😊 it's not that I lost the weight that makes me super happy, but that I lost it in 3 months and have kept it off for a whole year without much effort. I eat and live normally without fear and I'm not gaining the fat back. Once I've healed from these surgeries it means I get to workout again. I miss weight lifting and running so much. I also want to pick up martial arts. It feels like my real body I've always invisioned is just around the corner.

[@GabbieCh]

Damn, that's great! I hope it all goes great and you can recover well. I know that spinal issues are no joke. How did your skin do after so many pregnancies and weight gain/weight loss?

[@fathimagulzad784]

That’s awesome!!

[@diamondsrubies1964]

Cool! What an inspirational story, I’ve been struggling with food lately, and reading this has made me feel better, thank you 😊

[@darkydoom]

@@GabbieCh my skin held up until 32 weeks of my first pregnancy. I barely gained weight and then all of a sudden gained 20kg. I went overdue by 9 days and in the time put on 5kg. I use to have photos. It scarred, went purple and brown tearing from within. Every pregnancy no matter how healthy I eat or exercise I do I go up to 97kg. I'm sensitive to those hormones, so even when I had periods I'd fluctuate crazy. Ever since I started the pill (and I never take the sugar pill) I've been able to get my weight under control. So ah yeah, loose stretched abdominal skin and my muscles are split. I have surgery in May to fix those issues and I'm really excited to get my core strength back because it impacts on the spine. This is my year of repair and healing.

[@darkydoom]

@@diamondsrubies1964 I hope you get on top of it. Before when I tried to diet I'd start getting paranoid about food and cry when I ate, this time was different though, I don't know why. I think I just approached it differently mentally and I never said no to "bad" food, it just became a calories in and out formula. And I rested. I didn't exercise my body into the ground like I use to, because exercise and starting at the same time is just too much on my mind it seems

[@sarahi.k8246]

I will never be able to wrap my head around this. I like to run half marathons, but last year I gained 15 pounds and went from 135 to 150. I'm not mad at myself for it, it happened and I understand why it did (stress from the pandemic, comfort eating, inactivity etc.). However, when I tried to run come summer-time, my knees hurt so bad! I went to physio, did loads of stretching exercises, bought a therma-gun... nothing helped. I'm back to my former weight of 135 pounds after eating healthier and guess what? My knee pain is gone! Not only am I running pain-free, but I'm running faster than I could at my heavier weight. This is just basic science. More weight on your joints = more stress on the joints = joint pain (which happened to me). Why are we trying to get rid of things that can help the human body? I guess I should just embrace being called a "Never Fat" and resign myself to a world of "hating myself" since I really don't want to give up one of my favourite hobbies to a life of pain and medical expenses.

[@jessica5470]

It's crazy how much losing just a little changes so much, I think if people tried working out consistently enough to feel that feeling of a stronger body and more fluid movement it'd be more encouragement and then instead of it being a chore to workout it's just knowing you'll feel better everyday that you do it

[@lizg8055]

Wow and that’s only 15 pounds. Crazy

[@brianclemons5375]

I have 15 pound turds. I move like a cheetah after a bowl movement

[@MelB868]

Your complaining about being 150 I wish I was 150 I’m 5’3” and 178.8 pounds I use to be 186.

[@Unlimited-D-Works]

How tall are you. You make it seem like 150 pounds is fat.

[@superbadgem2635]

I was fat. I went to the gym. I lost weight. All I get is compliments from people. Telling me 'I just wanted to say you've done really well'. Never had someone be rude to me. Everyone admires everyone in my Gym and its shown by how people alter their work outs because they see something someone else did that they liked. Nothing but love ❤

[@amandavalencia5964]

When I see a bigger person in the gym or outside training, I want to say to them that "you can do it!". I want to say good on you for doing it, I am so proud of you. But I don't because I am afraid that they might not like it, or take offense. So I just give them awkward looks, because I am socially awkward. But deep down inside, my inner cheerleader is like YESSSSSSSS!!!!!

[@bre6651]

This. This hit.

[@chelseasmith1426]

this is me exactly!

[@tayjay1164]

Yes, me too!

[@MissCaraMint]

Yeah it’s like «good for you». I end up smiling awkwardly.

[@DemureDarlings]

SAME

[@houijda]

the other day i saw someone say that “clean eating” and “healthy eating” is eugenicist rhetoric and while it did not offend me, i thought it was incredibly funny that there is at least 1 person who thinks telling people to eat real food instead of chemicals is eugenics….

[@dominator1217]

And this person votes and will probably have kids one day, that’s what really scares me

[@miaomiaou_]

Ugh this is one of the more extreme claims and it’s so annoying. I really hate when people try to act like fatness is inherent like race or sexuality 🤦🏾‍♀️🤦🏾‍♀️

[@MissCaraMint]

Everything is chemicals though.

[@alp2610]

You saw it on the internet- meaning it could be a literal 8 year old saying it.

[@TheNewHope2010]

I'm going to be the outlier here. I didn't start losing weight, until I stopped trying to lose weight. My only goal in the beginning was to increase my energy and strength. I went to the gym every day, and skipped cardio and did nothing but weight lifting for a month, stopped drinking alcohol and started drinking almost a gallon of water each day to increase my energy. It only cared about getting physically stronger so I could carry my weight around, move effortlessly throughout my house (I have a split-level home and hated going up and down the stairs), cook and clean without feeling winded and weak, and to create a strong posture. Not focusing on the scale (although I still look at it) made me focus on (and get excited that) the weights that were increasing almost every time my rotation brought me back to the same exercises for that week. Once I gained strength, energy and confidence, I actually started WANTING to do the cardio and eat better, so I could feel even better. I guess what I'm saying is, I think some (not all) obese people would do better not thinking about weight loss and diets and calorie counting... and thinking more about how to NOT struggle to do everyday tasks - regardless of their current weight - by increasing their overall strength, mobility and energy levels. The weight will come off on its own as the mindset shifts to "Hey! I like the way this feels and I want to move more and eat better." Because it feels good, rather than like a constant, uphill battle. I'm finally losing weight, eating healthy without thinking too hard about it, lost cravings for some terrible food and I'm fitting better in my clothes and looking better in them than ever. I'm happy. I don't care about the weight... I care about living my best life with the body I have - with strength and zeal. The weight will eventually catch up to my new lifestyle, IMO.

[@agonleed3841]

no..that's smart. fat js the result we don't like to SEE. but most overweight people, including myself, won't change unless we want to change an aspect more than the look itself. I couldn't keep up with one of my cousins at the park and I had my first son.by thst time. I didn't want to be that way as he grew older so I worked on being able to just keep.up. and of course weight just disappeared. but before that, knowing I was overweight did nothing. I did a little something here a d there but my lifewas so comfortable that I didn't have any real motivation. at the time. I wasn't challenged to do much. i.had a job, money, games, food, drinks, I was good lol. but as stated, I just happened to go.to the park with one of my younger cousins and we were playing around and I couldn't keep up, so...I realized that

[@2brownbabes]

This is a great testimony.👏🏾 Weightloss is a BY PRODUCT of focusing on being healthy and able bodied

[@xFolkmore]

This! I’m currently suffering from an ED and other health issues. It’s made me gain a lot of weight, I’m constantly in pain and tired and I hate it. I want to change but “dieting”, calorie counting etc. is what got me into an ED in the first place. I have a friend who started in a similar spot as me and is now leading a much healthier lifestyle. She told me something very similar to what you said; she said to focus on a feeling and then the other things will follow. She told me to focus on getting my energy up through diet and working out, building strength, endurance etc. and the other things will slowly follow. I’ll feel more motivated and energized to continue with the healthier practices. I think there’s some nuance to this argument. We need to acknowledge that it’s not easy for people to just go to the gym or eat healthier, and that while some things work for other they don’t work for everyone. For me, calorie counting and closely monitoring everything I ate resulted in an ED. that doesn’t give me free range to just go and eat whatever I want all the time no matter the consequences, but that doesn’t mean I need to do the extreme either, it just means I need to learn how to be mindful and intuitive with my eating, which is something I’m struggling with right now. I also acknowledge I have physical roadblocks right now that I’m working on with my doctor before I can really get into the swing of things. Sorry for the rant, lol. TL;DR your approach is good and especially helpful for those struggling with an ED or ED tendencies and can’t just focus on “losing weight”, but instead it’s more constructive to focus on a feeling.

[@fredzzkid]

That's what it's all about!

[@JamieMittman]

I've been doing something silimiar! I've told myself 1 hour of activity a day and it can be anything, high intensity or not. Just be active for one hour. Sometimes it's the gym, sometimes it's a workout youtube video, or swimming, or walking , or running. It's been fun trying new sports and I ran my first 5K this week. Results are only visible to me right now but I know if I keep it up I'll get to a better place. It's about the effort! 🩷

[@leahwilliams9333]

I am 16 lbs away from my goal weight so at 5'10" I'm now just in the overweight category. So...I will tell you this. Now that I am just overweight, I rarely have heart palpitations which happened all the time as an obese person. Excited about this newfound heart health. I still occasionally have heart palpitations when I drink artificial sweeteners but...overall, the improvement is fantastic.

[@ChlorineHeart]

Congrats! Glad you're feeling better

[@happyhorse1028]

Congratulations. Keep up the good work. You should be very proud of yourself.

[@tan8802]

love that for you, congrats!

[@komakeira1045]

Congrats!! Im glad you feel better :D

[@AlexisMaria]

Wow good for you!!!!! As long as you feel good that's all that matters and yessss it's clear ✨️

[@themagicknightress7132]

They should just join Planet Fitness. You’re not *allowed* to judge other people there.

[@Shinukuro]

Agreed! I was made it fun of at a regular gym by some really nasty girls and as soon as I joined planet fitness I was never made fun of and everybody’s been very nice and supportive

[@Jazzisa311]

To be fair, I really do like to see fat ppl in workout magazines, and I loved nike's line of bigger workout clothes. I do think sometimes larger ppl get intimidated, thinking that you have to be already thin before you can start working out. If seeing more ppl of various body sizes enjoying working out helps motivate more ppl to move, then great! Even if they don't lose weight, it's still healthier to be fat and working out, than sedentary at the same size.

[@michellepatten7460]

I’ve actually only had one bad experience at a gym in my entire 44 years. I wanted to lose some of the fat I had gained after pregnancy. I mean I overate while pregnant so…. 😂 I signed up to a gym and went through the process of scoping it out and talking to the people who worked there and asked them the appropriate steps to achieve what I wanted. I decided to start with step classes. The day before I spoke with the instructor. A woman who was in great shape and seemed really knowledgeable. I asked her what I would need and how to start and which step I would need. She pointed it out and said I should start there. Skip to the class. I was having a hard time keeping up. I mean I thought wow. I’ll never get to the other higher steps if this one is killing me. She got off her step and brought a different one. Which was two steps down and criticized me in front of the whole class. I told her she is the one who had instructed me to use this one when I came yesterday. She apologized and went back to instructing. After the class a few of the girls said she’d done that to them as well. I continued to go because I loved it. And she wasn’t there anymore. I have no idea why, but there was a different instructor. Could be she changed gyms. But it never deterred me from going. In fact it made me want to prove I could master it. And I got a great endorphin rush from it.

[@GabbieCh]

That's cool, you have a good minset. Props to you!

[@Mizz.Person]

Good on you for standing up for yourself in the class. I'm always caught off guard and too upset to word things in a nice manner.

[@joannamork8793]

Going to the gym, I don’t think I’ve ever over heard anyone making fun of over weight people who want to better themselves. The only thing I’ve heard is when you have the gym equipment hogs. People who take a long time and hog the gym equipment. Glad I have my own home gym now.

[@skydilly]

I'm a size 16 and recently started lifting - my favorite thing about the gym is that everyone is minding their own damn business! Love it

[@foximoxi8533]

Gyms have worked so hard to create a safe environment for people of all sizes to work out without feeling excluded or judged… so I find it really irritating when articles like this imply gyms are an unsafe space. I’ve maybe dealt with one gym where I felt uncomfortable and that was because of a manager who kept pushing his training classes on me. I’ve literally avoided gyms most of my life because of articles like this. When I finally joined a gym, after about a week I was like “oh. No one literally cares about me.” Lmao!

[@Tenebarum]

I’ve been going to gyms for 25 years. Most people who are dedicated to fitness are happy to give advice or spot you. Never saw anyone being abused for being overweight or out of shape. Mostly people cheering others on to get to their goals.

[@elizabethelder9210]

Honestly, the only time I felt unwelcome at a gym was in a rather well off area. And that was only because the front desk treated me like they assumed I couldn’t afford the membership.

[@irenesandron7530]

I met a couple of AH at the gym who would look at me and giggle, it was terribile at the beginning but then I got to meet so many kind people who helped me with the machines and were very supportive of my journey and my progress. You will always meet nasty people, you need to ignore them and focus on the bright side!

[@kaceo.damondaze5270]

I love the costumes- both yours and on the dogs!

[@sierrasierra2595]

I have felt insecure in the gym but I knew it was just in my head, doing something new in front of others is hard and you will feel self-conscious but most ppl in the gym are not worried about you, I promise. btw, I'm not nor have ever been obese. I'd say I'm slightly overweight but most ppl have said I'm skinny but I just have always wanted a more sleek, tight, and toned body.

[@LostNFound432]

Yeah I feel like this has absolutely nothing to do w weight and everything to do w feeling insecure about doing something new in front of pros. My husband is in great shape but has never been to a gym and he would feel the same way. It's like giving a lecture to 100 professors or trying a new dance in front of dancers, it's just intimidating and has nothing to do w weight.

[@GabbieCh]

It's so true. Sometimes we just need to stop the thoughts in our head and do whatever we want/need to do. It's extremely rewarding and there's way less anxiety afterwards. I learned to just make a solid argument for myself, then stop thinking and just go ahead and do it. I think about how I need consistency to get my results and what matters is to actually do what I'm intending to do. Whether someone looks at you or you don't do a new exercise correctly the first time, it doesn't matter, and you likely won't even remember that, but you'll be glad that you've done the work.

[@Seeryne]

I won't deny that a lot of obese people get made fun of in fitness-dedicated spaces. I've seen it happen, I won't say it's VERY prevalent because I don't want to validate the fat activits way of thinking that basically pushes this "everybody hates me and is obsessed with me because I'm fat" rhetoric, most people don't care, they're just there to work out and leave, but it does happen and it's horrible and I won't deny that. HOWEVER, two things can be true at the same time. Fat people being made fun of because they're fat doesn't negate the FACT that being obese is unhealthy. so I don't know what they're trying to prove here. edit: Also, Michelle, you look hot.

[@monaco0042]

Funnily enough I frequent a lot of fitness spaces and to be honest very few if any make fun of people for being fat. If the person is working towards self improvement then there welcome at least that's my experience.

[@schmalice666]

People who have time to make fun of someone at the gym aren't working out very hard, are they?

[@msk-qp6fn]

Funny thing is I have seen more personal trainers or coaches getting annoyed at "skinny" girls who just walk on the treadmill for 10 minutes and then play with their phones then a fat person struggling to run or lift weights.

[@steph_lopez]

@@msk-qp6fn 10 minutes on the treadmill?! Juses what is that gonna do. I do at least an hour.

[@tatertots43]

Also, more often than not, people who make fun of others for being fat are projecting their own insecurities, so even as they direct insults at fat people, they are really thinking about themselves. That's not to say that those comments can't be hurtful, but as you saliently point out that doesn't mean it's healthy to be morbidly obese.

[@JesusFirst316]

Wow by far one of the most creative content creators I’ve seen. It’s so nice to see you working hard to inform women and others and promoting health. This body positivity thing has gotten so crazy lol. If I remember right it started with people who are amputees/handicap etc

[@adafihj6439]

I got an issue with the never fat definition. I've never been fat and it's not because I don't want to gain weight but the way my body is set up I don't gain weight easily. I've wanted to gain weight. Her definition doesn't include everyone

[@banditpoon714]

It is soooo hard for me to gain weight too!

[@tiffanykim2773]

Same I lose weight without trying but to gain weight is hard and I've been picked on for it by family, friend's, strangers ugh

[@RandomFandomDragon]

"Never-fat" just sounds like a rude way to project her own issues on other people.

[@GabbieCh]

@@RandomFandomDragon I feel like this whole list is sort of that. It's weird to define all people as types of "fats", even "never-fats". The whole world has to be seen through her "fat" lens.

[@RandomFandomDragon]

@@GabbieCh fair point. They do seem skewed to sound like a person is missing out if they aren't fat.

[@winter94fly]

I promised myself every time I see your videos, I'll get my ass on the stationary bike. Now whenever I watch my favourite youtubers, I'm on the bike! Thanks Michelle 💕

[@13zaphikel]

I was an obese 18 year old when I started my fitness journey and nobody ever made me feel terrible about being at the gym. Not even the other teenagers who were way fitter than me! Everybody just minds their own business and ignores everyone else for the most part. In fact I actually get a lot more "attention" at the gym now as a fit muscular lady. Old men mostly. They stand there staring at me when I'm lifting and a lot of times they'll ask me what I'm doing and what muscles it's working cuz they are impressed by me I guess 🤷. And when I see a fat person in the gym I remember what it felt like to be that person and I hope that they stick with it and that I will keep seeing them there because so many of them give up before they really see results and it makes me sad.

[@paigeburleson6932]

Started at my gym 300 pound women, lost well over half that weight while at the gym like 4-5 times a week, never anything but love and support from staff and patrons alike!!!! And it’s a global gym, so not just a random local, I’ve just found it’s all about what attitude ur putting out, personally for me, it’s my positivity of myself that’s my own responsibility. To each their own, and good journey to everyone wherever it takes u!!!😁😁😁 Thanks for another amazing upload!!! Huge fan girl here!!!🥰🥰🥰 Also afterthought edit here…. My 14 year old also attends with me now trying to get healthier, and he also has had nothing but love from our gym as well 😁

[@paigeburleson6932]

@S J Thanku, wishing u the best 😁

[@paigeburleson6932]

@channel name 🥰🥰🥰Thanku so much, that honestly means a lot to me.❤️💜❤️💜

[@dickersoncharlie4961]

@@paigeburleson6932 Can you please tell me how you lost that much weight, I'm really big too and I want to start worrieing about my health, I was wondering if you could give me some advice and help me out, can you please tell me what you did!?

[@bellarina]

I'm skinny and I felt judged at the gym before. And what do you know; it was all in my head cos I did not feel comfortable with the way I looked 🤣 and others did not care one bit. Shock horror

[@anmi1985]

Omg, I love you! Being fit takes work! It’s grinding and pushing until you reach your goal plus it’s a life long commitment to yourself! being lazy and fat ain’t that…I went from 130 skinny fat to 210 pregnant back to 140 fit. I was struggling going up the stairs and felt pain in all my joints at my heaviest so I know how shitty it feels…I don’t understand how people can strive to celebrate that…it makes me sad to say this but there aren’t many obese people in 65-70+ group😢can we finally start promoting health instead of jumping from one extreme to another? 🤷🏻‍♀️

[@AnyOtherName25]

Yeah agreed, I associate “privilege” with something you’re born with out of your control, so rich privilege or white privilege etc., “fit privilege” or whatever they complain about doesn’t make sense to me because it’s something people work really really hard at and it’s okay to celebrate that. It’s weird how they take it as a personal affront

[@sabieDxMx]

Your statement about not being motivated with an out of shape trainer reminded me of hating my high school p.e teacher, he always tried pushing my chubby ass during the 1 mile run and id just stare at his large gut and think " he could never even do this" which gave me less motivation. So true

[@slimeyolo]

That’s disgusting. I hope u can find motivation now

[@sabieDxMx]

@@slimeyolo i have been fit for almost 6 years now! Thank you to myself for learning to cook and enjoying the outdoors, something my p.e teachers could never do

[@whalefuhk]

Michelle is one of the few creators that I NEVER know what they’re going to say- and it’s so exciting and I appreciate it so much. Thanks for never being predictable 🥰🙌🏻👑

[@snooganslestat2030]

She is predictably Amazing!

[@MeMyselfandI953]

I'm an obese woman. The gym I go to is really great! The staff and other members are always so supportive.

[@brianjames2000]

Honestly when I'm out running and I see a larger person speed walking, trying to get in shape, it makes me happy. They always get a smile and a nod from me.

[@taneshabland8686]

Tbh I think a lot of time it’s in larger peoples head. I’m at the heaviest I’ve ever been in life and every time I go workout I feel like everyone is looking at me but in reality nobody cares. And similar to what you said I’m more happy and inspired when I see larger people working out.

[@JohnGalt916]

Not everything needs to be accepted. Remember when we had standards? Remember when everyone didn't look like trash bags full of old pudding? All I'm saying is you don't see a lot of old fat people.

[@reuben3077]

These edits are fire 🔥 😂😂😂😂 I’m dying 💀

[@the98thalien]

I've been going to the gym for 6-7ish years and I can only think of a single person who actively made fun of fat people in the gym (not to their face thankfully). It sucked bc she was my personal trainer for a while. Horribly condescending and arrogant. Other than her, I see a lot of people encouraging others. I feel happy when I see someone making progress and bettering themselves!

[@kaleido9631]

Thank you for your sanity. I currently have a bmi of 24, and most people around me see me as skinny even though i am almost overweight. It's like gaslighting. It makes me feel crazy for trying to lose weight to prevent problems.

[@donttouchthefluff]

I DIED when she gave yoshi the red eyes 🤣🤣 that opening was everything

[@sabrinawavvy]

As an obese person who now goes to the gym regularly and has lost weight, I never seen it myself or had it happen to myself. But it does happen, people really out here harassing and bullying such people who’re just getting there work out in AND minding they’re damn business. They are also the same ppl who had issues with Nike dropping a plus size fitness wear line 🤦🏾‍♀️

[@bpet7138]

Unfortunately those people will always exist, and it's usually because they hold some insecurities in themselves. Personally I can't help but smile when I see someone trying to better themselves. Keep it up!

[@msk-qp6fn]

For sure they exist

[@jetnight88]

You obes… NO GOD NO. How you get this big?

[@jetnight88]

@@bpet7138 she is obese? NO…. Omg how did she get this big? I very disappointed

[@sabrinawavvy]

@@bpet7138 Thanks 😊

[@irenatheginger2491]

Can we talk about how on point your wigs always are and how great they look quality wise! I'm 29 almost 30 weeks and can't wait to get this one out of me and be able move a lot more easily, not waddling around all over the damn place and finally being able to squat without getting stuck and needing help to get out of it. I'm looking forward to being able to go for longer walks with my kiddos and being able to add more/different types of movement into my day without causing more harm than good to me at the moment. It would be nicer to see them show a healthy woman of color on the cover vs the way they did go about it... Especially for what type of magazine they actually are or at least used to be..

[@leelee5593]

Congrats wishing y’all a safe labor and healthy delivery

[@irenatheginger2491]

@@leelee5593 Thank you very much!

[@mayahdoss7050]

Discovering this channel is giving me life

[@amystravelsvlogsmore6064]

I am all for body positivity. That is why I am working hard on LOSING weight so I can be more positive with my body!!

[@NienNienNien]

Your not for body positivity by losing weight. You are for the standards of beauty of society

[@naturazpolski9213]

@@NienNienNien What?

[@firevinyasabybuffy]

You're right, it's a "me" thing. I was always insecure at the gym, I would go at 1 or 3 in the morning to try and go when the gum would be empty. Fast forward to now after losing 150 pounds and becoming a licensed Yoga instructor, yes, Michelle, yoga 😉 I still get nervous walking into a gym during busy hours. The difference is that I'm conscious of pushing through my own insecurities and living my life.

[@lalayastill610]

praise to the Yoshi!

[@cesaravegah3787]

I was borderline diabetic, losing 20 pounds stabilized my glucose levels at almost normal levels and My general health improved so much that I would need a book to describe it, anyone who dares to tell me that fat is fit I would call an stupid and a liar

[@kathydelarosa1286]

I was in a similar situation but instead lost 40 pounds and my health has improved tremendously! Yet I’m being skinny shamed now , meanwhile I’m not even underweight . People just love to talk

[@Sharpe1502]

I’m fat and when I went to the gym, I never got made fun of. I did get side eyed by gym Bros if I was using a piece of equipment they wanted. But I’d side eye them when they screamed/grunted while lifting weights. So there was side eyeing on both sides.

[@trinelangohr6661]

I thought "complacent ideas about bodies and sizes" were attitudes like "I'm perfect, the rest of the world is wrong!!!"