NSV at the gym

thistimewillbedifferent · July 2013

I'm still a bit in shock from this...

I go to a shadowboxing class at my gym every Tuesday night. I'm the only overweight person in the class, and I always stand in the back so that I don't have to worry about people looking at how out of shape I am, how unable I am to do some of the movements, etc.

I've been taking the class (and working with a trainer) since January, during which time I've lost 45 lbs, but I'm still very much overweight. There's a super-fit (like something in a fitness magazine) guy in the class, and tonight he looked at me out of the blue as we were waiting for class to begin and said "You look better and better every single week. You are really doing great!"

I'm definitely going to bed with a smile on my face tonight.

Am posting this mainly because I thought it might provide a little motivation to others who still appear fat and still feel like they don't really belong in the gym. And, OK, because I wanted to brag a little. I admit it. :smokin:

daniellemm1 · July 2013

This brought a tear to my eye, really that must have felt great!!! So many times we think that those "in shape/fit people" are judging us when in reality they are often quite impressed that we are busting our butts to get healthier!!! Keep at it

Gigsluvscw · July 2013

Whoop! High five followed by the happy dance! :happy:

sc3ptical · July 2013

Aw that must have felt amazing! Good job sticking to it, even though you didnt 'fit in' with the rest of the group.

Walkbyfaith1971 · July 2013

That's awesome! Congrats and keep it up!

Sometimes it's easier for others to see the progress we have made (than us looking in the mirror) and it's such an encouragement (and motivator) when they share their observations!

thrld · July 2013

I'm the only overweight person in the class, and I always stand in the back so that I don't have to worry about people looking at how out of shape I am, how unable I am to do some of the movements, etc."

Here's a not-secret: you are not the only overweight person in the class. Matter-of-fact to everyone who thinks they are the *only* overweight person in the class -- you are not. You may be the only 'currently' overweight person in the class -- but plenty of your classmates started at the beginning, just like you did, and they've walked in your shoes (heck, my yoga teacher started doing yoga because he was 75lbs heavier than he is today). I wish there was a badge or ring or special handshake. Everyone starts at the beginning, and everyone at the gym is the same: they are there to work out and be fit.

Otter1422 · July 2013

That is awesome, pretty awesome what a little positive recognition for your efforts can do for a person. I guess that is why everyone comes on here. :happy:

JonathanBB · July 2013

I love it. Made me think of something I saw recently. It can be taken somewhat condescendingly, but I prefer to look at it as a positive motivational thing. Not that I think of you as a "fatty" ar from it. I find your workouts and food diary inspirational.

To the fatty running on the Westview track this afternoon: http://i.imgur.com/6jEWN.png

F1TCH1K · July 2013

What a great feeling! Congrats on your loss!

Mpol2 · July 2013

That is wonderful...good for you:flowerforyou:

SteveStedge1 · July 2013

this is a great story..but there is a reason you don't see this often (the comment)

Because as a dude you don't want to appear condescending... you took the compliment as intended but some people would get offended so its easier to say nothing.

Probably a lot of people notice.

I sometimes want to give a "great job" to larger persons I see running as I have been there..but I dont want to seem like a *kitten* so I say nothing.

Gsdmom2 · July 2013

What. great compliment. congratulations on your accomplishment. Making progress on this road to health and fitness is really a journey, not a spring. keep up the good work!