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What are your unpopular opinions about health / fitness?
Replies
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Not much on cake since I'm a pie guy but for this I'll make an exception! mmm, mmm
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joemac1988 wrote: »amusedmonkey wrote: »joemac1988 wrote: »amusedmonkey wrote: »Yep. This has taken a weird turn. From "a PT must be in shape" (I still think they don't have to if they don't want to and if it doesn't affect their ability to train) to all kinds of irrelevant silliness.
My opinion: A PT SHOULD be in shape. Being out of shape CAN affect their ability to train. Not once did I say a PT has to be in shape or they're incapable.
There is a big difference between "can" and "will". Many things can affect ability to train including things completely unrelated to fitness. I would rather go for "a good PT is one who knows how to train" rather than single out one single factor that may or may not be relevant.
I agree completely that knowing how to train is the single biggest factor. I also think that if you're out of shape it begs the question why? Lack of self respect, lack of drive, or is it application of your knowledge?
It could be any of these things, although different priorities is the most common answer. Weight lifting in particular is a sport where body weight is mostly irrelevant to skill level (hence the different weight categories in olympic lifting) so weight is rarely a factor in ability to train. It does affect the business side of things, though. That I'll give you.1 -
joemac1988 wrote: »Trainer's should be in shape. Having CPT after your name proves nothing. I've seen trainers that have credentials but are obese and have their clients do the most ridiculous exercises.
few pages back but figured id toss in my cousin who has a rediculous amount of university for all sorts of training to become a personal trainer -including medical training has went to so much school and internships he never had time to do alot of the exercising and healthy eating himself. Hes insanely qualified, And because he is hes getting more and more out of shape the more courses he takes.
So where i agree to a degree, Fitness really doesnt mean you know what your doing- And being out of shape or overweight doesnt mean you dont.1 -
JaydedMiss wrote: »joemac1988 wrote: »Trainer's should be in shape. Having CPT after your name proves nothing. I've seen trainers that have credentials but are obese and have their clients do the most ridiculous exercises.
few pages back but figured id toss in my cousin who has a rediculous amount of university for all sorts of training to become a personal trainer -including medical training has went to so much school and internships he never had time to do alot of the exercising and healthy eating himself. Hes insanely qualified, And because he is hes getting more and more out of shape the more courses he takes.
So where i agree to a degree, Fitness really doesnt mean you know what your doing- And being out of shape or overweight doesnt mean you dont.
This also applies to other things as well. I'm fat, but I'll brag I know more about weight loss and its strategies than some nutritionists.5 -
amusedmonkey wrote: »joemac1988 wrote: »amusedmonkey wrote: »joemac1988 wrote: »amusedmonkey wrote: »Yep. This has taken a weird turn. From "a PT must be in shape" (I still think they don't have to if they don't want to and if it doesn't affect their ability to train) to all kinds of irrelevant silliness.
My opinion: A PT SHOULD be in shape. Being out of shape CAN affect their ability to train. Not once did I say a PT has to be in shape or they're incapable.
There is a big difference between "can" and "will". Many things can affect ability to train including things completely unrelated to fitness. I would rather go for "a good PT is one who knows how to train" rather than single out one single factor that may or may not be relevant.
I agree completely that knowing how to train is the single biggest factor. I also think that if you're out of shape it begs the question why? Lack of self respect, lack of drive, or is it application of your knowledge?
It could be any of these things, although different priorities is the most common answer. Weight lifting in particular is a sport where body weight is mostly irrelevant to skill level (hence the different weight categories in olympic lifting) so weight is rarely a factor in ability to train. It does affect the business side of things, though. That I'll give you.
That's fine, but I'm not referring to weight, I'm talking about physical fitness.0 -
JaydedMiss wrote: »joemac1988 wrote: »Trainer's should be in shape. Having CPT after your name proves nothing. I've seen trainers that have credentials but are obese and have their clients do the most ridiculous exercises.
few pages back but figured id toss in my cousin who has a rediculous amount of university for all sorts of training to become a personal trainer -including medical training has went to so much school and internships he never had time to do alot of the exercising and healthy eating himself. Hes insanely qualified, And because he is hes getting more and more out of shape the more courses he takes.
So where i agree to a degree, Fitness really doesnt mean you know what your doing- And being out of shape or overweight doesnt mean you dont.
That is awesome and takes a lot of dedication. I just don't think knowledge alone of a subject qualifies you to teach it to others or the practical application, regardless what said subject is. Your cousin is absolutely an authority on what they've studied but that is only half of being a Personal Trainer. I'm not saying your cousin is unqualified, simply saying knowledge alone doesn't make one qualified.0 -
amusedmonkey wrote: »JaydedMiss wrote: »joemac1988 wrote: »Trainer's should be in shape. Having CPT after your name proves nothing. I've seen trainers that have credentials but are obese and have their clients do the most ridiculous exercises.
few pages back but figured id toss in my cousin who has a rediculous amount of university for all sorts of training to become a personal trainer -including medical training has went to so much school and internships he never had time to do alot of the exercising and healthy eating himself. Hes insanely qualified, And because he is hes getting more and more out of shape the more courses he takes.
So where i agree to a degree, Fitness really doesnt mean you know what your doing- And being out of shape or overweight doesnt mean you dont.
This also applies to other things as well. I'm fat, but I'll brag I know more about weight loss and its strategies than some nutritionists.
Disclaimer: I'm not calling you fat...I don't know you or know what you look like.
Do people take you seriously and come to you for advice? I don't ask this to be mean, honest question. The reason I ask is I used to be very fat and never had anyone ask me for advice. I've added muscle and lost fat and I get approached through social media and in person almost every day asking for help with meal plans, workout routines and so on.
I'm not attaching this to the opinion I stated regarding CPT's. I'm genuinely curious what the perception is that you encounter.1 -
joemac1988 wrote: »JaydedMiss wrote: »joemac1988 wrote: »Trainer's should be in shape. Having CPT after your name proves nothing. I've seen trainers that have credentials but are obese and have their clients do the most ridiculous exercises.
few pages back but figured id toss in my cousin who has a rediculous amount of university for all sorts of training to become a personal trainer -including medical training has went to so much school and internships he never had time to do alot of the exercising and healthy eating himself. Hes insanely qualified, And because he is hes getting more and more out of shape the more courses he takes.
So where i agree to a degree, Fitness really doesnt mean you know what your doing- And being out of shape or overweight doesnt mean you dont.
That is awesome and takes a lot of dedication. I just don't think knowledge alone of a subject qualifies you to teach it to others or the practical application, regardless what said subject is. Your cousin is absolutely an authority on what they've studied but that is only half of being a Personal Trainer. I'm not saying your cousin is unqualified, simply saying knowledge alone doesn't make one qualified.
Are you being specific for training or are you talking all fields of knowledge?
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joemac1988 wrote: »amusedmonkey wrote: »joemac1988 wrote: »amusedmonkey wrote: »Yep. This has taken a weird turn. From "a PT must be in shape" (I still think they don't have to if they don't want to and if it doesn't affect their ability to train) to all kinds of irrelevant silliness.
My opinion: A PT SHOULD be in shape. Being out of shape CAN affect their ability to train. Not once did I say a PT has to be in shape or they're incapable.
There is a big difference between "can" and "will". Many things can affect ability to train including things completely unrelated to fitness. I would rather go for "a good PT is one who knows how to train" rather than single out one single factor that may or may not be relevant.
I agree completely that knowing how to train is the single biggest factor. I also think that if you're out of shape it begs the question why? Lack of self respect, lack of drive, or is it application of your knowledge?
Injury?0 -
piperdown44 wrote: »joemac1988 wrote: »JaydedMiss wrote: »joemac1988 wrote: »Trainer's should be in shape. Having CPT after your name proves nothing. I've seen trainers that have credentials but are obese and have their clients do the most ridiculous exercises.
few pages back but figured id toss in my cousin who has a rediculous amount of university for all sorts of training to become a personal trainer -including medical training has went to so much school and internships he never had time to do alot of the exercising and healthy eating himself. Hes insanely qualified, And because he is hes getting more and more out of shape the more courses he takes.
So where i agree to a degree, Fitness really doesnt mean you know what your doing- And being out of shape or overweight doesnt mean you dont.
That is awesome and takes a lot of dedication. I just don't think knowledge alone of a subject qualifies you to teach it to others or the practical application, regardless what said subject is. Your cousin is absolutely an authority on what they've studied but that is only half of being a Personal Trainer. I'm not saying your cousin is unqualified, simply saying knowledge alone doesn't make one qualified.
Are you being specific for training or are you talking all fields of knowledge?
Specifically about training but I think it would apply to some other fields of knowledge. Probably a poor example (thinking on the fly lol) but someone that knows everything there is to know about psychology from an education standpoint doesn't necessarily mean they'd be a good psychologist. I'm sure there would be plenty of exceptions to this though. What are you thinking?0 -
joemac1988 wrote: »amusedmonkey wrote: »joemac1988 wrote: »amusedmonkey wrote: »Yep. This has taken a weird turn. From "a PT must be in shape" (I still think they don't have to if they don't want to and if it doesn't affect their ability to train) to all kinds of irrelevant silliness.
My opinion: A PT SHOULD be in shape. Being out of shape CAN affect their ability to train. Not once did I say a PT has to be in shape or they're incapable.
There is a big difference between "can" and "will". Many things can affect ability to train including things completely unrelated to fitness. I would rather go for "a good PT is one who knows how to train" rather than single out one single factor that may or may not be relevant.
I agree completely that knowing how to train is the single biggest factor. I also think that if you're out of shape it begs the question why? Lack of self respect, lack of drive, or is it application of your knowledge?
Injury?
Yes, good point. My assumption is they're physically capable.0 -
joemac1988 wrote: »piperdown44 wrote: »joemac1988 wrote: »JaydedMiss wrote: »joemac1988 wrote: »Trainer's should be in shape. Having CPT after your name proves nothing. I've seen trainers that have credentials but are obese and have their clients do the most ridiculous exercises.
few pages back but figured id toss in my cousin who has a rediculous amount of university for all sorts of training to become a personal trainer -including medical training has went to so much school and internships he never had time to do alot of the exercising and healthy eating himself. Hes insanely qualified, And because he is hes getting more and more out of shape the more courses he takes.
So where i agree to a degree, Fitness really doesnt mean you know what your doing- And being out of shape or overweight doesnt mean you dont.
That is awesome and takes a lot of dedication. I just don't think knowledge alone of a subject qualifies you to teach it to others or the practical application, regardless what said subject is. Your cousin is absolutely an authority on what they've studied but that is only half of being a Personal Trainer. I'm not saying your cousin is unqualified, simply saying knowledge alone doesn't make one qualified.
Are you being specific for training or are you talking all fields of knowledge?
Specifically about training but I think it would apply to some other fields of knowledge. Probably a poor example (thinking on the fly lol) but someone that knows everything there is to know about psychology from an education standpoint doesn't necessarily mean they'd be a good psychologist. I'm sure there would be plenty of exceptions to this though. What are you thinking?
Well, that's true in all aspects of life.
Just seemed overly broad. I work at a research organization, so my first thoughts were of organic synthesis chemists, toxicologists or microbiologists, smattering of engineers. Without the education you won't go very far (some very small exceptions). Doesn't mean you'll be great, doesn't mean you won't be, but you have to have the education first.
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piperdown44 wrote: »joemac1988 wrote: »piperdown44 wrote: »joemac1988 wrote: »JaydedMiss wrote: »joemac1988 wrote: »Trainer's should be in shape. Having CPT after your name proves nothing. I've seen trainers that have credentials but are obese and have their clients do the most ridiculous exercises.
few pages back but figured id toss in my cousin who has a rediculous amount of university for all sorts of training to become a personal trainer -including medical training has went to so much school and internships he never had time to do alot of the exercising and healthy eating himself. Hes insanely qualified, And because he is hes getting more and more out of shape the more courses he takes.
So where i agree to a degree, Fitness really doesnt mean you know what your doing- And being out of shape or overweight doesnt mean you dont.
That is awesome and takes a lot of dedication. I just don't think knowledge alone of a subject qualifies you to teach it to others or the practical application, regardless what said subject is. Your cousin is absolutely an authority on what they've studied but that is only half of being a Personal Trainer. I'm not saying your cousin is unqualified, simply saying knowledge alone doesn't make one qualified.
Are you being specific for training or are you talking all fields of knowledge?
Specifically about training but I think it would apply to some other fields of knowledge. Probably a poor example (thinking on the fly lol) but someone that knows everything there is to know about psychology from an education standpoint doesn't necessarily mean they'd be a good psychologist. I'm sure there would be plenty of exceptions to this though. What are you thinking?
Well, that's true in all aspects of life.
Just seemed overly broad. I work at a research organization, so my first thoughts were of organic synthesis chemists, toxicologists or microbiologists, smattering of engineers. Without the education you won't go very far (some very small exceptions). Doesn't mean you'll be great, doesn't mean you won't be, but you have to have the education first.
Oh, totally. What I think applies fairly universally is knowledge doesn't necessarily translate to effectiveness. I think the fields you refer to are a few rungs above PT, in terms of education and the stakes.0 -
joemac1988 wrote: »amusedmonkey wrote: »JaydedMiss wrote: »joemac1988 wrote: »Trainer's should be in shape. Having CPT after your name proves nothing. I've seen trainers that have credentials but are obese and have their clients do the most ridiculous exercises.
few pages back but figured id toss in my cousin who has a rediculous amount of university for all sorts of training to become a personal trainer -including medical training has went to so much school and internships he never had time to do alot of the exercising and healthy eating himself. Hes insanely qualified, And because he is hes getting more and more out of shape the more courses he takes.
So where i agree to a degree, Fitness really doesnt mean you know what your doing- And being out of shape or overweight doesnt mean you dont.
This also applies to other things as well. I'm fat, but I'll brag I know more about weight loss and its strategies than some nutritionists.
Disclaimer: I'm not calling you fat...I don't know you or know what you look like.
Do people take you seriously and come to you for advice? I don't ask this to be mean, honest question. The reason I ask is I used to be very fat and never had anyone ask me for advice. I've added muscle and lost fat and I get approached through social media and in person almost every day asking for help with meal plans, workout routines and so on.
I'm not attaching this to the opinion I stated regarding CPT's. I'm genuinely curious what the perception is that you encounter.
People who know me come to me for advice because I'm one of the few people they know who was able to lose weight and keep it off for years (and yes, you can call me fat because I am fat). I imagine, and understandably, if I ever decide to be a nutritionist I would have to work harder on the business side of things because not many would understand my choice to have a happy goal weight in the overweight category. That's just how things are. First impressions are important and people can't be blamed for them. It doesn't, however, affect my knowledge level and experience with this topic.9 -
I think that the "must be in shape" criteria mostly applies to the waves of PTs who get a quick PT cert and then immediately work at a local gym or fitness center. Not world class trainers, not people with extensive experience and/or formal education, just the sort I mentioned, which applies to me.
I became a certified PT several years ago because I wanted to serve on the corporate wellness board at work and it was a requirement (I have never trained private clients for money). I feel like part of my credibility when working with employees in various programs who were trying to lose weight was my appearance and my capabilities (to jump in and exercise with the group, participating in physical challenges, etc.). If I was overweight and unable to perform at a minimal level during events, I think it would have taken quite a bit of work to establish confidence. There were programs where we conducted weekly weigh-ins, I don't know how I could have stood there as an overweight coach and weighed the other overweight people and carried that off with any credibility.4 -
amusedmonkey wrote: »joemac1988 wrote: »amusedmonkey wrote: »JaydedMiss wrote: »joemac1988 wrote: »Trainer's should be in shape. Having CPT after your name proves nothing. I've seen trainers that have credentials but are obese and have their clients do the most ridiculous exercises.
few pages back but figured id toss in my cousin who has a rediculous amount of university for all sorts of training to become a personal trainer -including medical training has went to so much school and internships he never had time to do alot of the exercising and healthy eating himself. Hes insanely qualified, And because he is hes getting more and more out of shape the more courses he takes.
So where i agree to a degree, Fitness really doesnt mean you know what your doing- And being out of shape or overweight doesnt mean you dont.
This also applies to other things as well. I'm fat, but I'll brag I know more about weight loss and its strategies than some nutritionists.
Disclaimer: I'm not calling you fat...I don't know you or know what you look like.
Do people take you seriously and come to you for advice? I don't ask this to be mean, honest question. The reason I ask is I used to be very fat and never had anyone ask me for advice. I've added muscle and lost fat and I get approached through social media and in person almost every day asking for help with meal plans, workout routines and so on.
I'm not attaching this to the opinion I stated regarding CPT's. I'm genuinely curious what the perception is that you encounter.
People who know me come to me for advice because I'm one of the few people they know who was able to lose weight and keep it off for years (and yes, you can call me fat because I am fat). I imagine, and understandably, if I ever decide to be a nutritionist I would have to work harder on the business side of things because not many would understand my choice to have a happy goal weight in the overweight category. That's just how things are. First impressions are important and people can't be blamed for them. It doesn't, however, affect my knowledge level and experience with this topic.
Well said.0 -
Bry_Lander wrote: »I think that the "must be in shape" criteria mostly applies to the waves of PTs who get a quick PT cert and then immediately work at a local gym or fitness center. Not world class trainers, not people with extensive experience and/or formal education, just the sort I mentioned, which applies to me.
I became a certified PT several years ago because I wanted to serve on the corporate wellness board at work and it was a requirement (I have never trained private clients for money). I feel like part of my credibility when working with employees in various programs who were trying to lose weight was my appearance and my capabilities (to jump in and exercise with the group, participating in physical challenges, etc.). If I was overweight and unable to perform at a minimal level during events, I think it would have taken quite a bit of work to establish confidence. There were programs where we conducted weekly weigh-ins, I don't know how I could have stood there as an overweight coach and weighed the other overweight people and carried that off with any credibility.
Agreed. A PT is a leader of sorts and the best leaders are "do as I do, not as I say".2 -
Bry_Lander wrote: »I think that the "must be in shape" criteria mostly applies to the waves of PTs who get a quick PT cert and then immediately work at a local gym or fitness center. Not world class trainers, not people with extensive experience and/or formal education, just the sort I mentioned, which applies to me.
I became a certified PT several years ago because I wanted to serve on the corporate wellness board at work and it was a requirement (I have never trained private clients for money). I feel like part of my credibility when working with employees in various programs who were trying to lose weight was my appearance and my capabilities (to jump in and exercise with the group, participating in physical challenges, etc.). If I was overweight and unable to perform at a minimal level during events, I think it would have taken quite a bit of work to establish confidence. There were programs where we conducted weekly weigh-ins, I don't know how I could have stood there as an overweight coach and weighed the other overweight people and carried that off with any credibility.
I understand what you're saying, and agree. Please take what follows as a reaction or extension, i.e. conversation, not disagreement at all.
Since losing weight, I think there are contexts where I'm now less immediately credible as an influencer or advocate. This is as a peer, a regular person, not as PT.
I was a pretty fit fat person, fairly strong, decent CV fitness, decent endurance - competed as a rower, not always unsuccessfuly.
My performance stats haven't changed much with weight loss (though my new weight/age class is less competitive, so statistically I've improved. ). I didn't "look fit" (BMI 30-ish), now I kinda do.
Working with new people, especially women 40+, in contexts like our learn-to-row classes, I had credibility I don't have any more, when I try to encourage not-so-fit people who are just starting out. "Look: I can do this (specific move or technique); so can you!" was surprisingly effective. "Here's how to get into a single shell with weight or flexibility limitations", demoed the exact same way, doesn't have the same effect it used to, as far as the person being obviously more willing to give it a try. The same is true in my attempts to encourage new fellow students in my spin classes. Now I get the "easy for you" look or even statement.
Though weight loss was a huge gain for my health and happiness, this particular aspect feels like a personal loss, and I didn't expect it.
Aside: Some of the fit youths taking learn-to-row don't believe me any or more or less than they used to (I'm old, 62). They should've, and should (I'm a better rower than they are, and was coaching certified, among other credentials). Some of them believe other fit beginners about rowing technique before they believe me. SMH.
Edited: extra extra word word10 -
joemac1988 wrote: »
How much do you trust the Belgium Minister of Health.
Also I think you're missing the sarcasm
Haha, I don't even trust her not to eat me! But it seems there's a ton of people on here that will jump in saying "Just because she's not healthy doesn't mean she can't do her job!" Well, no; that's correct. She still shouldn't have that position though, in my (unpopular) opinion.
Ok, sometimes gets lost in translation lol
Thats a pretty dick thing to say.22 -
Bry_Lander wrote: »I think that the "must be in shape" criteria mostly applies to the waves of PTs who get a quick PT cert and then immediately work at a local gym or fitness center. Not world class trainers, not people with extensive experience and/or formal education, just the sort I mentioned, which applies to me.
I became a certified PT several years ago because I wanted to serve on the corporate wellness board at work and it was a requirement (I have never trained private clients for money). I feel like part of my credibility when working with employees in various programs who were trying to lose weight was my appearance and my capabilities (to jump in and exercise with the group, participating in physical challenges, etc.). If I was overweight and unable to perform at a minimal level during events, I think it would have taken quite a bit of work to establish confidence. There were programs where we conducted weekly weigh-ins, I don't know how I could have stood there as an overweight coach and weighed the other overweight people and carried that off with any credibility.
I understand what you're saying, and agree. Please take what follows as a reaction or extension, i.e. conversation, not disagreement at all.
Since losing weight, I think there are contexts where I'm now less immediately credible as an influencer or advocate. This is as a peer, a regular person, not as PT.
I was a pretty fit fat person, fairly strong, decent CV fitness, decent endurance - competed as a rower, not always unsuccessfuly. My performance stats haven't changed much with weight loss (though my new weight/age class is less competitive, so statistically I've improved. ). I didn't "look fit" (BMI 30-ish), now I kinda do.
Working with new people, especially women 40+, in contexts like our learn-to-row classes, I had credibility I don't have any more, when I try to encourage not-so-fit people who are just starting out. "Look: I can do this (specific move or technique); so can you!" was surprisingly effective. "Here's how to get into a single shell with weight or flexibility limitations", demoed the exact same way, doesn't have the same effect it used to, as far as the person being obviously more willing to give it a try. The same is true in my attempts to encourage new fellow students in my spin classes. Now I get the "easy for you" look or even statement.
Though weight loss was a huge gain for my health and happiness, this particular aspect feels like a personal loss, and I didn't expect it.
Aside: Some of the fit youths taking learn-to-row don't believe me any or more or less than they used to (I'm old, 62). They should've, and should (I'm a better rower than they are, and was coaching certified, among other credentials). Some of them believe other fit beginners about rowing technique before than they believe me. SMH.
My situation isn't as specialized as yours, but I really identify with this.
At least for people I've met in the past 3 years, I think I often come across as someone who doesn't have to worry about my weight or even think about it much. Much of this is the success of calorie counting -- I'm pre-logging my food and on a pretty even keel, so I look like someone who is just eating what I want to eat. I'm pretty active, so it's relatively easy for me to fit in an impromptu happy hour and have a beer after work or grab a piece of candy when our boss brings some to a meeting.
So when co-workers or newer friends are having conversations about different weight challenges, I notice a difference in how people respond to me. They don't think I have anything relevant to share about how to start exercising or how to lose weight.
But I do have people come to me if they're, say, wanting to run a 10K and need advice on a training plan or what races in the area are the best. I never got questions like that before, even thought I've been running for most of my life.
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Bry_Lander wrote: »I think that the "must be in shape" criteria mostly applies to the waves of PTs who get a quick PT cert and then immediately work at a local gym or fitness center. Not world class trainers, not people with extensive experience and/or formal education, just the sort I mentioned, which applies to me.
I became a certified PT several years ago because I wanted to serve on the corporate wellness board at work and it was a requirement (I have never trained private clients for money). I feel like part of my credibility when working with employees in various programs who were trying to lose weight was my appearance and my capabilities (to jump in and exercise with the group, participating in physical challenges, etc.). If I was overweight and unable to perform at a minimal level during events, I think it would have taken quite a bit of work to establish confidence. There were programs where we conducted weekly weigh-ins, I don't know how I could have stood there as an overweight coach and weighed the other overweight people and carried that off with any credibility.
I understand what you're saying, and agree. Please take what follows as a reaction or extension, i.e. conversation, not disagreement at all.
Since losing weight, I think there are contexts where I'm now less immediately credible as an influencer or advocate. This is as a peer, a regular person, not as PT.
I was a pretty fit fat person, fairly strong, decent CV fitness, decent endurance - competed as a rower, not always unsuccessfuly. My performance stats haven't changed much with weight loss (though my new weight/age class is less competitive, so statistically I've improved. ). I didn't "look fit" (BMI 30-ish), now I kinda do.
Working with new people, especially women 40+, in contexts like our learn-to-row classes, I had credibility I don't have any more, when I try to encourage not-so-fit people who are just starting out. "Look: I can do this (specific move or technique); so can you!" was surprisingly effective. "Here's how to get into a single shell with weight or flexibility limitations", demoed the exact same way, doesn't have the same effect it used to, as far as the person being obviously more willing to give it a try. The same is true in my attempts to encourage new fellow students in my spin classes. Now I get the "easy for you" look or even statement.
Though weight loss was a huge gain for my health and happiness, this particular aspect feels like a personal loss, and I didn't expect it.
Aside: Some of the fit youths taking learn-to-row don't believe me any or more or less than they used to (I'm old, 62). They should've, and should (I'm a better rower than they are, and was coaching certified, among other credentials). Some of them believe other fit beginners about rowing technique before they believe me. SMH.
Edited: extra extra word word
It is interesting that your increased fitness actually reduced your credibility in certain instances, I would never have expected that...0 -
Bry_Lander wrote: »Bry_Lander wrote: »I think that the "must be in shape" criteria mostly applies to the waves of PTs who get a quick PT cert and then immediately work at a local gym or fitness center. Not world class trainers, not people with extensive experience and/or formal education, just the sort I mentioned, which applies to me.
I became a certified PT several years ago because I wanted to serve on the corporate wellness board at work and it was a requirement (I have never trained private clients for money). I feel like part of my credibility when working with employees in various programs who were trying to lose weight was my appearance and my capabilities (to jump in and exercise with the group, participating in physical challenges, etc.). If I was overweight and unable to perform at a minimal level during events, I think it would have taken quite a bit of work to establish confidence. There were programs where we conducted weekly weigh-ins, I don't know how I could have stood there as an overweight coach and weighed the other overweight people and carried that off with any credibility.
I understand what you're saying, and agree. Please take what follows as a reaction or extension, i.e. conversation, not disagreement at all.
Since losing weight, I think there are contexts where I'm now less immediately credible as an influencer or advocate. This is as a peer, a regular person, not as PT.
I was a pretty fit fat person, fairly strong, decent CV fitness, decent endurance - competed as a rower, not always unsuccessfuly. My performance stats haven't changed much with weight loss (though my new weight/age class is less competitive, so statistically I've improved. ). I didn't "look fit" (BMI 30-ish), now I kinda do.
Working with new people, especially women 40+, in contexts like our learn-to-row classes, I had credibility I don't have any more, when I try to encourage not-so-fit people who are just starting out. "Look: I can do this (specific move or technique); so can you!" was surprisingly effective. "Here's how to get into a single shell with weight or flexibility limitations", demoed the exact same way, doesn't have the same effect it used to, as far as the person being obviously more willing to give it a try. The same is true in my attempts to encourage new fellow students in my spin classes. Now I get the "easy for you" look or even statement.
Though weight loss was a huge gain for my health and happiness, this particular aspect feels like a personal loss, and I didn't expect it.
Aside: Some of the fit youths taking learn-to-row don't believe me any or more or less than they used to (I'm old, 62). They should've, and should (I'm a better rower than they are, and was coaching certified, among other credentials). Some of them believe other fit beginners about rowing technique before they believe me. SMH.
Edited: extra extra word word
It is interesting that your increased fitness actually reduced your credibility in certain instances, I would never have expected that...
Just as a clarification: By any objective measure, my fitness didn't change at all in any statistically significant way. RHR is the same; HR response to not-very-bodyweight-dependent exercise (spin, say) is about the same; rowing machine pace the same (though theoretically it should be slightly worse at lower bodyweight); weight I can lift about the same; etc. (Endurance is hard to tell, since I can't think of benchmarks I have before/after that aren't tainted by bodyweight. Shell goes faster/easier on water because I'm lighter, so duration I can go is unhelpful, for example).
Just my weight changed (to BMI around 21) and with reduced pudge, pre-existing muscle shows.
I didn't expect it either, though in retrospect the psychology of it makes sense.
And I'm quite certain that it's not my imagination or demeanor (e.g. self confidence) - part of my "evidence" of that last is what a visceral surprise it was to me.2 -
joemac1988 wrote: »Trainer's should be in shape. Having CPT after your name proves nothing. I've seen trainers that have credentials but are obese and have their clients do the most ridiculous exercises.
Mark Rippetoe would like a word with you. He wants the thread to go back to being about fruit cake vs. the superior stollen.
By the way, @stevencloser I used to make home made stollen and filled it with almond paste. It was incredible. I know there's a special German name for that version of it, but I forget it.8 -
If someone is fat, I assume it's an issue with how much they eat. I don't think a trainer is a good source for nutrition advice, so I don't really think being fat affects the trainer's ability. In fact, someone I "know" from MFP got into fitness and got hired by a gym and credentialed as a trainer, and from what I know about her history (she was into weight lifting before, I believe) and current situation (lost a lot of weight, not yet super fit looking, at least last I recall), and I think her experiences could make her especially inspiring for some people, and that might work for marketing.
That said, all the trainers at my health club are quite in shape looking, I assume the club probably pays attention to that and think it matters for marketing (whether they would admit it or not). I'd certainly hire some people who are overweight, though, based on knowledge.
If I wanted to make it as a trainer and came from a traditional background I'm sure I'd think that being in shape was important for marketing/employment even though I don't actually think it matters.2 -
amusedmonkey wrote: »JaydedMiss wrote: »joemac1988 wrote: »Trainer's should be in shape. Having CPT after your name proves nothing. I've seen trainers that have credentials but are obese and have their clients do the most ridiculous exercises.
few pages back but figured id toss in my cousin who has a rediculous amount of university for all sorts of training to become a personal trainer -including medical training has went to so much school and internships he never had time to do alot of the exercising and healthy eating himself. Hes insanely qualified, And because he is hes getting more and more out of shape the more courses he takes.
So where i agree to a degree, Fitness really doesnt mean you know what your doing- And being out of shape or overweight doesnt mean you dont.
This also applies to other things as well. I'm fat, but I'll brag I know more about weight loss and its strategies than some nutritionists.
You may be very knowledgeable. But to be honest nutritionists are not regulated/require any formal training. Anyone can call themselves a nutritionist, so not really much of a brag.0 -
joemac1988 wrote: »amusedmonkey wrote: »amusedmonkey wrote: »Yep. This has taken a weird turn. From "a PT must be in shape" (I still think they don't have to if they don't want to) to all kinds of irrelevant silliness.
Are you .....amused
I am actually. I'm more amused than insulting by fat shaming. I wonder why it happens and what mechanisms drive it.
I'm sure this is going to be another unpopular opinion but I think the nasty insults are ones you have no control over or are plain false. Race, sex, sexual orientation, cognitive function, etc are inexcusible. Fat, lazy...if it's true and what they say bothers you, change it! If it's not true or you don't care, why are we still talking about it?
Personally, I fat shame because it worked on me. I was fat and became so ashamed of it due to nicknames, comments etc that I actually did something about it. Sometimes the best helping hand is a swift kick in the @$$. Did it suck at the time? Yup. Now, I wouldn't change it for anything.
For the record, I'd never fat shame someone I don't know personally. I acknowledge that tough-love approach doesn't work for everyone. But it does work for some...there's this chef from the UK (I forget his name) that lost over 100lbs because his friend texted him "Fat F***" every morning.
I'd rather hear what I need to hear over what I want to hear 100% of the time.
How does it make fat shaming ok simply because it worked on you? It is still a form of verbal abuse whether you like to call it that or not. If my daughter is not doing her homework would that give me the right to call her stupid until it was done? Your argument is that the ends justifies the means, however you are completely ignoring the fact that people respond differently when insulted. Shaming someone could just as easily cause a person with already low self esteem to give up hope. You go on to say you wouldn't fat shame someone you don't know personally after you literally fat shamed someone you don't know on the previous page of this post. Fat shaming does not equal tough love. If someone you know is struggling with their weight, for God's sake be kind about it and stop trying to justify verbal insults.24 -
BMI is bull... to an extent. I think you can be quite healthy with a slightly elevated BMI and that BFP is a much better indicator of health status. I think a lot of people agree on that. The unpopular part is when I say "slightly." I don't know how many people in my fitness groups use the "BMI is crap" excuse to say they aren't very overweight when their BMI is WAY above obese range. It's not that it's a complete bull measure, just doesn't account for some variables. There's room fro upward fluctuation, but not THAT much.
Also, I don't think you can be obese and perfectly healthy. People say they're healthy and obese and that it's "just because of hypothyroidism" that they're fat. Well, I wouldn't consider hyporthyroidism a healthy thing. I know it's not their fault but there's still a health issue at hand. ALSO, I have hyporthyroidism and while yes it's a bit harder to lose weight, it is completely possible. When I'm not losing weight or when I'm gaining it's because I've been cutting corners or snacking. Does it suck that my skinny friends seem to be able to eat all the taco bell in the world and stay a size 4? Yes, but that doesn't make it an excuse for me to be and stay fat.7 -
I'm quite glad I lost muscle while losing weight.
I wouldn't like my look if I'd kept all the muscle I had when I was obese.4 -
jseams1234 wrote: »I was in the Army... it was mid January 1992 - Ft. Devens, MA. Cold cold cold snow and black ice everywhere. I was sitting in my barracks room thinking if I wanted to risk breaking something and taking a walk to the post Bowling Alley or maybe the Enlisted Club for some food. I was starving and I had missed dinner at the chow hall.
Then I remembered that my Grandma had sent me a a fruitcake for Christmas. It was still sitting in my wall locker, neatly wrapped in cellophane. Well, hunger won out and I took a nibble. Hmmm.... not so bad. Took a bite.... hey, not bad at all! I ate the entire thing. I don't know if it was just hunger or what, but it was delicious.
I haven't eaten one since. So, my current opinion might not be so generous.
I went through training at Fort Devens in the winter also: 1983-84. 05H.1 -
Jackibrazil wrote: »BMI is bull... to an extent. I think you can be quite healthy with a slightly elevated BMI and that BFP is a much better indicator of health status. I think a lot of people agree on that. The unpopular part is when I say "slightly." I don't know how many people in my fitness groups use the "BMI is crap" excuse to say they aren't very overweight when their BMI is WAY above obese range. It's not that it's a complete bull measure, just doesn't account for some variables. There's room fro upward fluctuation, but not THAT much.
Also, I don't think you can be obese and perfectly healthy. People say they're healthy and obese and that it's "just because of hypothyroidism" that they're fat. Well, I wouldn't consider hyporthyroidism a healthy thing. I know it's not their fault but there's still a health issue at hand. ALSO, I have hyporthyroidism and while yes it's a bit harder to lose weight, it is completely possible. When I'm not losing weight or when I'm gaining it's because I've been cutting corners or snacking. Does it suck that my skinny friends seem to be able to eat all the taco bell in the world and stay a size 4? Yes, but that doesn't make it an excuse for me to be and stay fat.
I'm in complete agreement with you here, start to finish. I know the opinion on BMI and the accuracy of the cutoffs on the margins are unpopular based on reactions to posts I've made on this topic. On another thread I brought up concerns with the statistical validity of the 25 cutoff worldwide, and got more "woo" marks than the sum of all other reactions. Irritating. Very irritating. I seriously think people don't listen or comprehend that I'm arguing variances of 5-20 lbs, not trying to talk away obesity much less morbid obesity.8
This discussion has been closed.
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