Is Being Fat a Choice?

Recently, a billboard in my town of Hudson, NC went locally viral.

Why? Because a gym in the next county decided to put one up that blatantly states "...being fat is a choice."

It's been several days since, and has constantly been on my mind.

The reason? That is only true to a TINY extent.

In reality, being fat is not ALWAYS a choice. Having endocrine or exocrine issues wipes the option out of the equation. Reproductive issues, such as PCOS? no choice. Chronically in survival mode, or stressed? Again, no choice.

There are so many reasons why individuals are unable to lose fat, and NONE of it is anyone else's business unless the individual chooses to include the person in it.

This is why I have potential clients fill out a questionnaire that includes diagnoses, medications, and habits. I need a better image of a person's life, and a quality conversation, before I can prescribe a fitness and/or nutrition plan.

I am ashamed that the owner of a gym - a place that is a sanctuary for so many individuals - Thought this, ran the idea by a billboard company, and then both the owner of the gym and the billboard agent decided to go forward with this.

This is far from what MOST gym-goers and business owners typically believe.

Please remember that you DO have a choice... To interview gyms, personal trainers, doctors, and any other professional category you decide to include in your life. Because it IS your life, your health, and your peace of mind.

This is why I named my company Bridging Wellness.... I believe in bridging the gap of the health continuum. Do you have a lot of fat and are otherwise healthy? GREAT. Do you have extremely low fat and wish to gain weight? WONDERFUL. I can work with everyone on both ends of the spectrum and in-between.

A good personal trainer can even refer you to other health professionals where our scope of practice ends, so that you can get the best care for your body.

If and when you see a message with such vitriol in it, please ignore it and remember that there are no two exact bodies on this planet. And that your health is not anyone else's business unless you choose it to be.

If you're ready to embrace your unique journey and break free from limiting messages, let's work together. Contact Bridging Wellness today to schedule a consultation, and take the first step towards a healthier, more empowered you. Your journey is personal—let’s make it extraordinary.