I am privileged to have a following of diverse backgrounds. Some folks are here for eating disorder and body image support. Some folks are here for discussion of disability, multiple sclerosis, chronic illness, and inaccessible views. Some folks are here because, in the process of managing my MS, I had the privilege of working with @frankduffyfitness. When we worked together, he cataloged our collective efforts. Many of the humans who watched our journey, are here with me, today. I am most grateful for that.
On the heels of the resurgence of @jillianmichaels spewing her fatphobic rhetoric, because that’s how she makes her money, DOZENS of humans sent me a video of her take on a practice that she doesn’t understand, that I refuse to watch, urging me to do something. I decided to not waste my effort on her, but to speak to the trainers, coaches, & fitness professionals who are here, instead.
If you are a fitness professional, you are working with people who have eating disorders.
All of us are immersed deeply in wellness cultures’ interpretation of what fitness “looks,“ like. I hear this all the time in my office. A desire to look ‘toned.’ A desire for a ‘thick’ backside. A desire for muscle definition. Or a differently shaped tummy.
A sense that life would dramatically improve if these physical attributes were attainable. And more so, that they indeed are, if a human. Just. Works. Hard. Enough.
Except that’s not true. Many bodies will never have muscle definition, even if they are very strong bodies. Many bodies will never achieve physical characteristics that are largely genetically predetermined. And your words and messages really matter.
If you are a fitness professional, you are supporting humans who live with the most lethal of all mental illnesses.
It’s important to me that you know this. And it’s also important to me that you know that resources exist to support you.
My colleague, @jessihaggertyrd, is a dietitian and a personal trainer. She wrote a program, just for you. Follow & sign up.
I was recently on a podcast with @coachustrong in which we discussed this very topic. Listen, ponder John’s questions, and please let me know your thoughts.
