5 Things You’ll Never Hear Me Say as a Body Neutral Fitness Professional
As a body neutral fitness professional, I’ve heard all sorts of clichés and motivational phrases tossed around the gym. While some might find them inspiring, others can find them off-putting, discouraging or even harmful. My approach to fitness is grounded in positivity, personalization & sustainability and I want to make it fun, not shame based.
Here are five things you’ll never hear me say in a fitness class or training session:
1. “We’re here to work off last night’s dessert.”
Fitness should never be about punishment. Associating exercise with guilt over food creates an unhealthy relationship with both. Enjoying a slice of cake or a bowl of ice cream is part of life, and it doesn’t need to be “worked off.” Instead, let’s focus on the positive benefits of exercise: having fun, improving strength, boosting mood, and enhancing overall health. Fitness is about what we gain, not what we lose.
2. “Go hard or go home.”
This phrase can be incredibly demotivating, especially for those new to fitness or returning after a break. It also suggests that “harder” is somehow “better” and that couldn’t be farther from the truth. The reality is that everyone’s body and journey is different, and pushing yourself too hard can lead to injury or burnout. It super important to listen to your body and find both a pace and intensity level that works for you. Progress is progress, no matter to what degree. Let’s celebrate every step forward, and not prioritize just the intense, all-out efforts which can be very taxing on the body. All movement is good movement regardless of the type or intensity.
3. “No pain, no gain.”
Pain is not a requirement for physical fitness. While challenging yourself is essential for growth, there’s a difference between discomfort from exertion and pain from potential injury. Listening to your body and understanding its limits is crucial. Fitness should be enjoyable and sustainable, not a painful ordeal. That’s why it’s important to look for smart, effective workouts that help you achieve your goals without risking your well-being.
4. “Let’s crush/blast this workout.”
Aggressive language like this can be intimidating and unwelcoming. Fitness should be an enjoyable and empowering experience, not a battlefield. My goal is to create a positive and encouraging environment where you feel motivated to do your best. Let’s focus on making each workout a step towards your goals, not a test of your toughness.
5. “You should do it this way / You shouldn’t do it that way.”
Every body is unique, and what works for one person might not work for another. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to fitness. Instead of rigid instructions, I believe in offering guidance and options that can be tailored to individual needs and preferences. Your fitness journey is personal, and my role is to support you in finding what works best for you.
Conclusion
Words matter, and I want to set you up with right mindset and approach which can make all the difference in your journey. By avoiding these common phrases, I aim to foster a positive, inclusive, and supportive environment where everyone can thrive. Let’s focus on the joy of movement, the celebration of progress, and the empowerment that comes from being in community and taking care of ourselves.
Remember, fitness (like life) is a journey, not a destination. Let’s make it a journey worth enjoying!
Join me for a class sometime!