Getting jeered at whilst exercising

Em_runs_away
Em_runs_away Posts: 194 Member
edited November 19 in Fitness and Exercise
I get jeered at every time I cycle/run I'm trying not to let it get me down but it's so mean. I'm trying to do something about being a "fatty" so why do they feel the need to be horrible? Tonight it was "Pedal fat girl, pedal!" Other nights it's been "Fatty run...Earthquake!"
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Replies

  • jgnatca
    jgnatca Posts: 14,464 Member
    Is this in a public gym? That is terrible!

    the-man-in-the-arena2.jpg
  • DanieRCC
    DanieRCC Posts: 332 Member
    edited June 2015
    This is awful. Those people need to be fonged! I agree headphones.

    I commend you for your hardwork! Don't let the stupid people get you down.
  • havalynd
    havalynd Posts: 54 Member
    What gym do you go to? See what their tolerance is toward negativity in the gym space. They may ask rude patrons to leave if you report them.
  • yusaku02
    yusaku02 Posts: 3,472 Member
    When I was a marathon training someone would yell "Run Forest Run!" from their car at least once a week. Just ignore it and continue with your workout. Why give them enough power to ruin your day?
  • T1DCarnivoreRunner
    T1DCarnivoreRunner Posts: 11,502 Member
    Think about what it will be like when you are sexy and they are still not.
  • RadRac01
    RadRac01 Posts: 14 Member
    Tell the gym's management. They want to draw people in. If those people are jeering at you they may be jeering at others as well, and that's bad for business.

    If you tell gym management in a firm voice with conviction that these people are harassing you, they should take action.

    If they do not, they do not need your business. And I'd suggest reporting them at that point or at least a bad yelp review.
  • EvgeniZyntx
    EvgeniZyntx Posts: 24,208 Member
    Can't fix stupid. Just carry on. If you find it continues to bother you, see if you can work out in a group. It might reduce the idiocy.
  • yusaku02
    yusaku02 Posts: 3,472 Member
    jgnatca wrote: »
    Is this in a public gym? That is terrible!

    the-man-in-the-arena2.jpg
    havalynd wrote: »
    What gym do you go to? See what their tolerance is toward negativity in the gym space. They may ask rude patrons to leave if you report them.
    RadRac01 wrote: »
    Tell the gym's management. They want to draw people in. If those people are jeering at you they may be jeering at others as well, and that's bad for business.

    If you tell gym management in a firm voice with conviction that these people are harassing you, they should take action.

    If they do not, they do not need your business. And I'd suggest reporting them at that point or at least a bad yelp review.

    Pretty sure she is exercising outside, not in a gym...
  • VickiLynn1101
    VickiLynn1101 Posts: 5 Member
    If this is a public place where you pay your hard earned money, I would complain to management. That is unacceptable. Bullying is NEVER acceptable. Just know it doesn't matter size when it comes to bullies. They are insecure and only feel better when they are putting someone down. YOU ARE BETTER THAN THEM. Keep your head up. You have nothing to be ashamed about. Ugh!
  • arditarose
    arditarose Posts: 15,573 Member
    You're outside right? God I hate people sometimes.
  • agreenid
    agreenid Posts: 218 Member
    Wow. That is NOT ok. Sorry I don't have any other advice for you but I'd try havalynd's advice.
    havalynd wrote: »
    What gym do you go to? See what their tolerance is toward negativity in the gym space. They may ask rude patrons to leave if you report them.

  • futuremanda
    futuremanda Posts: 816 Member
    Yikes! Outside, I am assuming?

    Definitely seconding headphones. And reflective sunglasses. Think intimidating and unavailable. If they think you won't hear or see them, or think you might turn on them, they might not bother trying to get a reaction out of you.

    And I like the tank top above. :D

    Maybe take a look and see if there's a different route you could cycle/run / neighbourhoods you could avoid. Are there any local parks or trails you could go to? Or see if you can find a cycle/running partner, for at least some of the time. If you'd be just as happy indoors, you could try a gym, but don't let anyone chase you inside if outside is where you're happiest.
  • ElizabethKalmbach
    ElizabethKalmbach Posts: 1,415 Member
    Headphones. Nothing is more annoying to them than your blissful oblivion to their "clever" remarks. Someday you will be stronger and have badass endurance, and they'll still be jerks.
  • jgnatca
    jgnatca Posts: 14,464 Member
    Aha! Outside. Idiot central. I've only got honks and waves when I'm picking up garbage on my runs, and I've concluded they were friendly.

    Then I'm with Theodore Roosevelt.

    How about a running partner. You can flip off the idiots together.
  • hutchin88
    hutchin88 Posts: 83 Member
    Just remember the tiny booty you're gonna have. Makes it all worth it. Also headphones :smile:
  • CSARdiver
    CSARdiver Posts: 6,252 Member
    Some people simply aren't worth saving, as evidenced by those to sling such random insults.

    This site needs more Teddy Roosevelt!
  • SuperMelanie
    SuperMelanie Posts: 70 Member
    One has to question their motives. They are jeering because you are doing something they feel uncomfortable with- namely getting fitter, stronger and healthier; improving yourself. Your presence makes them look at themselves as you see them- and they feel inadequate in comparison. Their choice is to either immediately stop what they are doing and join you, or try to stop you doing what you are doing. Abusing you is a form of defence for their failings. One day you'll no longer be "fatty" (horrible term!) - but the haters will always be insecure and nasty. Don't be upset, angry or disheartened :smile: You're doing great! The haters are the ones we should pity >:)
  • Hearts_2015
    Hearts_2015 Posts: 12,031 Member
    edited June 2015

    That's f***ing horrible. I'd suggest headphones so you don't have to hear it. And then just remind yourself that they're close-minded idiots and that you're doing amazing things!

    Just ignore, don't engage back.. that never turns out well, as when you're running or biking you're in a vulnerable position if they stop or whatever.

    How about changing this to take control and smiling to yourself... and began saying to yourself ..RUN Forest RUN and blast the Rocky Theme Song as you continue to run!

    Whatever it takes to block insensitive ppl out and keep you focused on what you're truly out there for.

    It sucks ppl do that... it truly does... we have to rise above it and not allow ourselves to get sucked in, not easy but do-able and definitely worth it. Ppl that do that sort of things are nobodies, they spend time tearing others down for what.......... nothing. Screw the non-supporters.

    We think you're AWESOME you start thinking that as well and it won't sting so much!!!!

    YOU are out enjoying yourself, getting some fun exercise in, doing good things for your mind, spirit and body. YOU WIN!

  • Em_runs_away
    Em_runs_away Posts: 194 Member
    It's not a gym it's outside. I cycle to my run and the run twice round a park then cycle home.
  • Em_runs_away
    Em_runs_away Posts: 194 Member
    Thank you for your kind words, I really appreciate the support.
  • PeachyPlum
    PeachyPlum Posts: 1,243 Member
    As a native New Yorker (read: I'm used to that) I can tell you how to deal with this. You make this gesture:
    y7ywalto2czn.jpg

    And yell "Vaffanculo!" At the top of your lungs. Then just keep on rocking on with your awesome self.
  • fishcat123
    fishcat123 Posts: 74 Member
    I'm sorry to hear that :( People who would yell rudely at someone exercising are awful, losers in the worst way. How pathetic does someones' life have to be to do that?!?

    You're doing something healthy and positive, and you should feel great about that! Regardless, it's hard to hear that kind of negativity on a regular basis. As a fairly average sized lady who runs a lot, unfortunately it's not uncommon for guys in cars to yell weird, gross, things. I second the idea of changing routes, although I'm not sure about headphones - it can be a little dangerous if you can't hear bikers, cars, or people trying to pass by, depending on the location. Also, maybe try biking and running with a buddy? You might be less of a target for this kind of harassment (in my experience, this is true), and if it does happen, you can help each other brush it off.

    Also, if you live in an area with trails or parks, maybe try there? Hikers and exercise walkers/runners are usually very supportive of each other in my experience, and there aren't cars for jerks to hide in and yell things.

    Anyway, take care and don't let those losers stop you!
  • Fit_Happens_2021
    Fit_Happens_2021 Posts: 303 Member
    I am so sorry to hear that is happening to you and I'm really surprised, maybe I am naive but I haven't heard of this happening before. May I ask what region or country you are in?
    Don't let anyone keep you from your goals, I don't understand people sometimes, it is horrible that they are saying things like that to you, is it teenagers?
  • mochapygmy
    mochapygmy Posts: 2,123 Member
    They are small minded and *kitten*. The small minded and *kitten* don't deserve one moment of your time.

    Every time I see some one biking or running outside I think 1 of 2 things. 1) hmm wish I was biking or running or 2) F it's really hot/cold, they are badass.

    Keep doing your thing!
  • Noreenmarie1234
    Noreenmarie1234 Posts: 7,492 Member
    This makes me sick. I hate people who are like this. They are obviously self conscious and have issues themselves. Try to ignore them. I always wear headphones in the gym and ignore everyone. Everyone has to start somewhere so it's disgusting people are making comments. Tell them to mind there own business.
  • Em_runs_away
    Em_runs_away Posts: 194 Member
    Yes it's a group of teenagers who are always there, I'm in Wiltshire, England. It's generally a nice place to live but this is getting me down. I think I will try to change my route so I can avoid them, I would happily go further if I don't get shouted at.
  • sistrsprkl
    sistrsprkl Posts: 1,010 Member
    I used to live/run in Queens, I would just crank up my headphones so I wouldn't hear the jeers/catcalls/etc... Let it make you stronger! You know you're beautiful :)
  • Fit_Happens_2021
    Fit_Happens_2021 Posts: 303 Member
    edited June 2015
    Yes it's a group of teenagers who are always there, I'm in Wiltshire, England. It's generally a nice place to live but this is getting me down. I think I will try to change my route so I can avoid them, I would happily go further if I don't get shouted at.

    Ahh it all makes sense now, the minute I saw your post it conjured up memories in my mind. I am sorry to any Brits I don't want to offend anyone but this is such a problem in some parts of the UK these days, it was like that where I was in Yorkshire before I left. I used to be uncomfortable just walking to the corner shop sometimes if I had to pass teens.

    I would definitely try to change your route if you can to avoid them, you shouldn't have to, but nothing is going to stop them having their 'fun' at your expense and you deserve to exercise in peace.
  • jgnatca
    jgnatca Posts: 14,464 Member
    That reminds me of an incident years past, when my mother, who had given up the car, wasn't feeling very good, decided to cycle down to the doctor's office. She had an old green banana seat bicycle with high-rise handlebars. I think it had streamers too. As she motored past the high school, the kids called, "Go, grandma, go!". I like to think, kindly. It turns out mom was suffering from a bad combination of medications, and the doctor couldn't get a pulse! That resulted in a rushed admission to the hospital and a short stay in intensive care.

    Imagine her trucking along on her bike in that condition.
  • Whittedo
    Whittedo Posts: 352 Member
    Yes it's a group of teenagers who are always there, I'm in Wiltshire, England. It's generally a nice place to live but this is getting me down. I think I will try to change my route so I can avoid them, I would happily go further if I don't get shouted at.

    That sounds like the best option to me. You can't change arseholes but you can change your route. I don't recommend the headphones idea because that could cause you to miss something important like approaching traffic.

This discussion has been closed.