Overweight Personal Trainers - What's your thoughts?
Replies
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I am going to be blunt and maybe that's because I AM a personal trainer.
As a trainer, you should care about your outward appearance. Seriously, how the hell do you expect to pick up clients when you don't look the part?
How can I coach someone when my main point is, "do as I say, not as I do." Not only as trainers are we supposed to help our clients, we are supposed to inspire by setting a good example.
Is it fair to ask my clients to put in work to help their physical appearance when I don't for mine.
That is bobo.
And for those of you who are talking group x aka zumba, etc.... that is NOTHING compared to training. Two different areas and two different certifications. Anyone can get certified in Group X. It literally takes ONE day. Your job isn't to train clients. You're supposed to teach a class. Two different things that cannot be compared. Besides, go to a fitness convention and look at everyone in Zumba. That's all I have to say about that.
You can read a book all day about physical exercise but if you can't apply it when it comes to clients, what is the point?
My suggestion is to sit down with a few and discuss goals and experience. Pick someone who is tailored to your needs and your body type.
This is another thing - the super fit but horrible trainer I mentioned? She was snobby and judgemental and her attitude that I was less worthy than others because of my weight shone through. This post reminded me of her.
Another like.
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Anyone can be a personal trainer but just not mine. I need someone who follows his own advice
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I know plenty of people who are overweight/obese and more active than individuals who are thin. As long as the PT is able to function (walk, wipe their own butt, feed themselves, etc)., I don't see the issue.
Overweight/obese doesn't equal lack of knowledge about wellness/exercise.0 -
I kind of want an overweight yoga instructor. I've tried yoga briefly but have a hard time figuring out some poses because my stomach gets in the way. Would be nice if someone knew of ways to work around that while I work on reducing my body fat. Or to have a visual, as it's just hard to watch the very fit instructor and mirror it with my still not fit, in progress self.0
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I would give even more credence to a personal trainer (etc.) who had been obese and overcame that, got healthy. That's what I'm hoping to do.
I never thought about it this way but that does make sense. I thought about becoming a PT (for fun, part time) when I reach my goal weight and body and worried that somehow I'd be viewed negatively because I've been overweight. What better person to train you than one who has actually experienced what you are going through (struggles and successes).0 -
I'd argue a better person would be one who has gotten a high level of education in training, and possibly nutrition, and has then helped a large group of fatties get unfat.I would give even more credence to a personal trainer (etc.) who had been obese and overcame that, got healthy. That's what I'm hoping to do.
I never thought about it this way but that does make sense. I thought about becoming a PT (for fun, part time) when I reach my goal weight and body and worried that somehow I'd be viewed negatively because I've been overweight. What better person to train you than one who has actually experienced what you are going through (struggles and successes).
I'd say that's a far better choice of service provider than someone who was overweight at one point, but is otherwise green.
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Most everyone is going to disagree with you, but I won't.Anyone can be a personal trainer but just not mine. I need someone who follows his own advice
I understand thyroid issues, and other health issues...but if you're going to talk the talk, walk the walk. I've had all kinds of set backs in the past 5+ years of losing major weight, but if you're choosing such a career, I agree that you should look somewhat fit. I can see 10lbs. over because we all need wiggle room but really obese? I can't take the person seriously.
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Depends on what goals you want the trainer to help you achieve. If weight loss is part of your goals, you may want a trainer who has lost or is losing fat themselves. If you are a large person who wants to focus on fitness/health at any size without weightloss pressure, a heavy but active trainer might be great, as many larger folks feel pressured and shamed about their weight to the point that they avoid the gym. In that situation, a bigger PT might give the kind of support that the client needs for embracing a new, more active mindset.
Also, if you are looking for a PT to help you with powerlifting or other intensive strength work, chances are that you may get the best help from someone who APPEARS to be overweight/fat.
Male world champion powerlifter:
Female Olympic Powerlifter:
^^^^^^^ Mama June is back in town????????????
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I had two trainers. One fit, one not so. For the time I was there, every one of the unfit trainer's consistent clients reached their goals. (So did the fit trainer's - a former weight loser and lifter who kept it off for 20years).
When I went in as a noob, it was like Jorocks said...I could tell he'd been fit. Over time, I found out that he had nerve damage from his former lifting days. He was still passionate about what he taught just could no longer do it himself. Experience shone through. I absolutely trusted them both.0 -
If there is a fat PT that is highly reviewed, highly recommended by people I respect then I'd absolutely give them a go.
If however I can't afford the highly reviewed/highly recommended fat PT and had to pick of just a few encounters with them then I would probably lean towards the more in shape ones. Odds would then be in my favor in finding one. At the very least it gives me an indication that they have had at least one successful client which would be themselves.
Not saying there aren't obese PTs that are really good and in shape PTs that could find their way out of a box, that's not how the world works.0 -
Look at it this way, in school it's common knowledge that the gym coaches are all over weight, shop teachers are missing a finger and the home ec ladies????? Yeah they're all divorced with cats........ I liked that nice cat lady .... lol.......0
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I'd argue a better person would be one who has gotten a high level of education in training, and possibly nutrition, and has then helped a large group of fatties get unfat.I would give even more credence to a personal trainer (etc.) who had been obese and overcame that, got healthy. That's what I'm hoping to do.
I never thought about it this way but that does make sense. I thought about becoming a PT (for fun, part time) when I reach my goal weight and body and worried that somehow I'd be viewed negatively because I've been overweight. What better person to train you than one who has actually experienced what you are going through (struggles and successes).
I'd say that's a far better choice of service provider than someone who was overweight at one point, but is otherwise green.
Not mutually exclusive.0 -
No, I would not pay for a personal trainer who is noticeably obese. To me, a personal trainer's body is a part of their resume. If they were overweight/obese at one point, and are now fit, I wouldn't have any issues going to them.
I wouldn't trust someone with frizzy, unkempt hair to do mine. I wouldn't trust someone to be my personal stylist if they didn't look put together, and I wouldn't trust a trainer who did not look fit. I guess this makes me judgemental, and I'm okay with that.0 -
I'd argue a better person would be one who has gotten a high level of education in training, and possibly nutrition, and has then helped a large group of fatties get unfat.I would give even more credence to a personal trainer (etc.) who had been obese and overcame that, got healthy. That's what I'm hoping to do.
I never thought about it this way but that does make sense. I thought about becoming a PT (for fun, part time) when I reach my goal weight and body and worried that somehow I'd be viewed negatively because I've been overweight. What better person to train you than one who has actually experienced what you are going through (struggles and successes).
I'd say that's a far better choice of service provider than someone who was overweight at one point, but is otherwise green.
Not mutually exclusive.
^^^Cosign0 -
WalkingAlong wrote: »I am going to be blunt and maybe that's because I AM a personal trainer.
As a trainer, you should care about your outward appearance. Seriously, how the hell do you expect to pick up clients when you don't look the part?
How can I coach someone when my main point is, "do as I say, not as I do." Not only as trainers are we supposed to help our clients, we are supposed to inspire by setting a good example.
Is it fair to ask my clients to put in work to help their physical appearance when I don't for mine.
That is bobo.
And for those of you who are talking group x aka zumba, etc.... that is NOTHING compared to training. Two different areas and two different certifications. Anyone can get certified in Group X. It literally takes ONE day. Your job isn't to train clients. You're supposed to teach a class. Two different things that cannot be compared. Besides, go to a fitness convention and look at everyone in Zumba. That's all I have to say about that.
You can read a book all day about physical exercise but if you can't apply it when it comes to clients, what is the point?
My suggestion is to sit down with a few and discuss goals and experience. Pick someone who is tailored to your needs and your body type.
This is another thing - the super fit but horrible trainer I mentioned? She was snobby and judgemental and her attitude that I was less worthy than others because of my weight shone through. This post reminded me of her. Another like.
Ditto. That was stank-a-dank-dank.0 -
kaseyr1505 wrote: »No, I would not pay for a personal trainer who is noticeably obese. To me, a personal trainer's body is a part of their resume. If they were overweight/obese at one point, and are now fit, I wouldn't have any issues going to them.
I wouldn't trust someone with frizzy, unkempt hair to do mine. I wouldn't trust someone to be my personal stylist if they didn't look put together, and I wouldn't trust a trainer who did not look fit. I guess this makes me judgemental, and I'm okay with that.
It's only judgmental to those on a pedestal.
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I'd personally feel more inclined towards an in-shape PT. I'm a person who likes self-experimentation and if they can tell me and show me what worked for them, that's excellent.
However, if they're overweight but can help me with my goals - lift with proper form, create programs that meet my performance training goals, give me actionable advice when it comes to nutrition - then I can overlook their weight.
To a degree.
You don't have to be super-active to be in shape. I believe that the personal brand of a PT should involve them staying on top of their nutrition to stay in shape. Sure, maybe they were a powerlifter and had an injury which then stopped them lifting and now they can't do as much. However, I would prefer to give my money to someone who, all things being equal, kept their weight under control.
But again - if they're professional, get me results and work well with me, I'll hire them in a heartbeat. But if I find them disgustingly fat and unhygienic, you can bet I don't want to be working in close proximity with them.0 -
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Perhaps the trainer used to be Obese at some point and did actually lose weight and are where they are now because of it. Perhaps they've gone from Obese to borderline Obese. Perhaps they are still in the middle of their loss.
This. But I guess many seem comfortable judging without knowing even a bit of backstory.
For comparison, all the advice that is posted on these boards should be posted by people in maintenance, with perfect bodies and minds?
Quoting myself because this discussion is getting ridiculous. What about all the scientific facts presented every day in this forum - is it less valid when coming out of the mouth of someone who is a work in progress still. I call bullsh*t on all the judgement passed in this thread.0 -
A person who is overweight/obese can't take care of themselves? Interesting.0 -
My BFF used an overweight trainer years ago. I saw him training her and some other women. They looked fantastic and got really strong. It wouldn't bother me as long as the person was qualifed, knew what they were talking about and had proven success. Losing weight and staying in shape is not easy to do. That's why so many of us struggle with maintenance. Life happens and sometimes even PTs can falter.
References and education are what matter to me. What I would not want is some arrogant, pompous know-it-all barking orders at me. I'd also want someone who will explain (and understands) exactly what and why they are having me do something.0 -
Ummm, people can have differing opinions. That doesn't automatically make someone judgmental. These are personal trainers that you are hiring to work for you and for you to be their customer. Customers have their right to choices.0
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While true, which do you think is more common, a service provider with the proper educational background who is overweight.
I'd argue a better person would be one who has gotten a high level of education in training, and possibly nutrition, and has then helped a large group of fatties get unfat.I would give even more credence to a personal trainer (etc.) who had been obese and overcame that, got healthy. That's what I'm hoping to do.
I never thought about it this way but that does make sense. I thought about becoming a PT (for fun, part time) when I reach my goal weight and body and worried that somehow I'd be viewed negatively because I've been overweight. What better person to train you than one who has actually experienced what you are going through (struggles and successes).
I'd say that's a far better choice of service provider than someone who was overweight at one point, but is otherwise green.
Not mutually exclusive.
Or, an overweight person who is less pr not overweight and now has a cert.
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I wouldn't have a problem with a trainer who doesn't look the part yet is successful. It tells me he's been able to stay in business by providing more than just eye candy.. like technical knowledge and good people skills.
Some people are genetically lucky and have a naturally good physique regardless of how little they exercise.. so you can't assume they practice what they preach, nor that they know what they're talking about. They sometimes don't.
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You people are ridiculous. I like the attacks on my character saying I am judgmental. I know fat trainers. I know skinny trainers. I know trainers who do stupid *kitten* exercises that increase injury. I know trainers who demonstrate bad form.
Or how about everyone judging the fit trainer as being an idiot meathead. See 18 posts above.
I am just stating. If people didn't care about the way they looked, who people be on my fitnesspal?
I would never make a client do something I can't do.
I lead by example. Not only have I have completed a half marathon, a full marathon, successful weight loss of 50 lbs, I have an education too. Judge me.
Would you hire a dentist with jacked up teeth?
Would you hire a hair stylist with a jacked up haircut?-2 -
You people are ridiculous. I like the attacks on my character saying I am judgmental. I know fat trainers. I know skinny trainers. I know trainers who do stupid *kitten* exercises that increase injury. I know trainers who demonstrate bad form.
Or how about everyone judging the fit trainer as being an idiot meathead. See 18 posts above.
I am just stating. If people didn't care about the way they looked, who people be on my fitnesspal?
I would never make a client do something I can't do.
I lead by example. Not only have I have completed a half marathon, a full marathon, successful weight loss of 50 lbs, I have an education too. Judge me.
Would you hire a dentist with jacked up teeth?
Would you hire a hair stylist with a jacked up haircut?
@bos10fit Take the tone down a notch or two. The attitude and snobbiness are not becoming. In fact, those are two traits that typically turn people away from a trainer (or anyone for that matter).
You said in your OP, "Is it fair to ask my clients to put in work to help their physical appearance when I don't for mine."
How do you know they aren't putting in the work? A PT who is overweight/obese can absolutely be actively trying to lose weight/become healthier. It's presumptuous to think otherwise.
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Not snob at all. A general statement.
Yes, they could be actively doing these things, and I am NOT saying don't hire an overweight trainer. I am just making a general statement. The fitness industry is one heck of a hard place to be.
I own a studio. You're constantly under scrutiny. You're constantly judged. It's the nature of the business.
Obesity is an EPIDEMIC in this country. We are the fattest country in the world. 70% of people are overweight and/or obese and 33% of CHILDREN.
What is up with the fat acceptance lately? The TV shows talking about how it's OKAY to be fat yada yada yada.
I need to get off here and go focus on more educated tasks like writing up workouts for my 20 clients.
Argh.
No one is allowed to have an opinion these days without getting rammed down the throat.
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Not snob at all. A general statement.
Yes, they could be actively doing these things, and I am NOT saying don't hire an overweight trainer. I am just making a general statement. The fitness industry is one heck of a hard place to be.
I own a studio. You're constantly under scrutiny. You're constantly judged. It's the nature of the business.
Obesity is an EPIDEMIC in this country. We are the fattest country in the world. 70% of people are overweight and/or obese and 33% of CHILDREN.
What is up with the fat acceptance lately? The TV shows talking about how it's OKAY to be fat yada yada yada.
I need to get off here and go focus on more educated tasks like writing up workouts for my 20 clients.
Argh.
No one is allowed to have an opinion these days without getting rammed down the throat.
Your tone comes off as snobby.
America is no longer the most obese country in the world. Mexico is.0
This discussion has been closed.
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