Picture this scenario: You are at the gym lifting weights and you see a group of fit guys making fun of an overweight woman struggling on an elliptical. Chances are you have seen this, done this or even experienced it for yourselves. And, sadly, it is not an uncommon occurrence. A little known fact is that I was actually overweight for a few years growing up and I have experienced this personally so it really infuriates me when I see someone overweight being discriminated against.

First of all, if someone is overweight or obese chances are about 100% that they know it and don't really need to be reminded by looks or comments. And as far as teasing an overweight person that is AT THE GYM is about as absurd as it gets. Think about how difficult it is for that person to begin; not only for the fact that he/she has a long way to go, but exponentially more so due to the likely scrutiny that are likely to endure by walking into the gym. This person has made a decision to attempt to improve their health and it should be nothing but applauded. When I have a new client consultation and they are very overweight I silently commend them for taking the leap to change. It is similar to an alcoholic attending their first AA meeting. It surely is an intimidating yet very brave decision, and clearly people aren't making fun of them for trying to better their life.

In fact, teasing people about their weight can actually contribute to their obesity. Researchers from Florida State University found that people who experience discrimination based on their weight were 2.5 times more likely to be obese four years later. In their study, researchers followed 6,000 participants over four years. The findings revealed that high school students who were harassed for being overweight responded by skipping workouts or gym class, and eating more. The adult participants avoided diets and found comfort in binge-eating. The study suggested that the teasing is often "justified" by the offenders because they falsely assume the jabs will motivate someone to lose weight. But it actually results in the opposite effect.

Interestingly enough other forms of discrimination, pointedly in regards to race can also create health problems. For example, race discrimination is linked to hypertension, and coronary obstruction.

So, when you feel like "helping" someone by pointing out their flaws, consider stopping yourself and think about how it would make you feel if you were in their shoes. . . not only in the case of an overweight person at the gym but at everything in life. Everyone has their battles, and in their case, it is a lot more "noticeable" than some others. The world would truly be a better place if people focused on bettering themselves rather than the shortcomings of others.

And for my last point: I have dozens of "heavy" clients that could outlast most "thin" people I know. Don't judge a book by its cover!!