Monday morning, The Today Show reported on an interesting company, that I could certainly foresee becoming a trend, at least in metropolitan areas with the population to support the concept. The story reported on Downsize Fitness, gyms located in Dallas and Chicago, which cater specifically to patrons who are a minimum of 50 pounds overweight.
The idea, is based on the Biggest Loser concept. Their goal is to eliminate the feelings of self-consciousness and intimidation many overweight individuals feel when going to a “regular gym.”
I have to admit, my first reaction upon hearing this story was,
“This is the worst idea ever! WHAT fitness professional thinks it is a good idea to reinforce the stereotype that gym goers are judging other gym goers, overweight or not!?!”
My perceived truth is, the people at gyms are friendlier than the people you encounter at a majority of other places. They are friendly and encouraging. If you are at the gym too, you’re a like minded person and automatically have a common interest no matter what your fitness level!
At the end of the day though, those feelings of fear do in exist. According to a poll on the story’s site, 60 percent of respondents indicated feelings of discomfort stopped them from going to the gym. While the reality may be different, if that is what is holding someone back from improving theirs and their loved one’s lives, then I support anything that helps them make a positive change.
My hope is that once members have managed to lose that 50 plus pounds, they are able to make the transition to “regular” gyms and not let those old looming fears hold them back from connecting with their new gym-goers!
On a completely different note,
It’s obviously been quite a while since I’ve talked much about running on CCR, thank you stress fracture, but now that I am slowly building my mileage to a reasonable number, I ran 4 1/2 miles today and get to hit 5 by Sunday, registration for my favorite race is starting to course through my mind.
Gate River Run, in Jacksonville, Fl is not only the largest 15k in the US but the National Championship as well!
Eric and I ran this race way back in 2011. This race is not only huge, but epitomizes the word fun! An epic expo, bands at every mile, and free post-race beer create a vibrant lively, friendly energetic that epitomizes everything that is wonderful about the running community!
The race ends with an intimidatingly long, semi-steep at least by Florida standards, bridge. As you approach the bridge, you hear an odd sound for being in the downtown of a large city…tribal drumbeats. Talk about making war on hills! The race directors sure know how to motivate runners!
These days the idea of flying down after work on the Friday before the race is more and more tempting.
Problem is… River run gives out awesome hats to the top 10 percent men and women finishers.
In 2011 I quite literally got THE LAST top 10 percent women’s hat there was. I know myself and while I am not the most competitive runner, especially coming back from an injury, I know I’m going to want one of those hats! Unfortunately, once I get my mileage back, I still need to ease into speed to avoid re-injuring my foot.
I’m afraid signing up for the race will tempt me to push my injury too fast as I have done twice already!
Weekly Eats
Despite being rather short on time this week, I have managed to eat some quick but delicious meals.
As soon as Gina from Skinny Taste posted this recipe for Cheesy Baked Spaghetti Squash Boats With Grilled Chicken, I was sold. I had already planned on making something similar but was excited to switch it up a bit and give this easy and yummy recipe a try!
It’s funny how a single new ingredient thrown into a “usual” dish can completely change its dynamic.
That’s what happened when I tossed some leftover diced tomatoes from this recipe into my go to salad with, get ready for this, radishes, carrots, mushrooms, peppers, red onion, capers, and varied protein. Yummy and easy peasy!
Another go-to, short on time meal for me is always pasta.
Just adding a touch, and by touch I mean two cloves, of slices, and crushed garlic 
, oregano, pepper, chopped tomato, and sautéed mushrooms to your favorite pasta sauce makes a last minute meal possible without hitting the drive thru!
I hate to put Ovrenight Oats in a Jar on CCR because, well, let’s just say other bloggers cover that for me 
, but when you have to be at work extra early, ya just can’t beat em!
What are your thoughts on gyms specifically for overweight patrons?
What is your favorite race?
What are your go-to quick meals?
I think that’s a great idea for a gym – I know plenty of overweight people who do not belong to a gym because it makes them so self conscious. I’m not sure what my favorite race is – probably NYCM! Happy weekend
I agree. I think anything that gets one more person to enjoy the benefits of a healthy life is worth it!