But even as a teacher, I am fully aware that not everyone has such positive connections to exercise. Group fitness classes, especially the boutique fitness classes that have become popular in recent years, sort of have a reputation for being exclusionary. And that’s putting it mildly. As more fitness companies become aware of this, more seem determined to create a more inclusive environment for people of all fitness levels, of all different sizes, and from all different backgrounds. With that being said, intention to change doesn’t change a narrative overnight. And as fitness professionals, if we want to cultivate an inclusive environment that makes exercise a more positive experience for everyone, there’s still a lot of work to do. Of course, one of the major issues with the narrative around fitness is the language that has traditionally been used to frame exercise. Clients are told to come to class after holidays to work off a big meal. They’re told to hit the gym to get ready for swimsuit season. Frankly, this language is outdated and damaging, and it doesn’t take into account the myriad of reasons people actually show up to the gym or to a class to get a work out in. So how do we shift our language about exercise to show up for the people who are actually coming into our studios and gyms? We need to acknowledge that every person has a unique relationship with their body and that weight loss doesn’t equal success to everyone. We need to acknowledge our clients who exist outside of the box of young, thin, able-bodied, and white. And we need to acknowledge that exercise isn’t a punishment we force upon ourselves after eating a big meal! Simply put, as the face of the establishments we work for, fitness professionals need to put in the work to make our spaces a more positive and inclusive environment for everyone. These books can help us get there. Opening up our minds to different perspectives on fitness, bodies, and health can change the way we interact with others, not just in the gym or in that boutique fitness studio — but everywhere. Looking for more enlightening book recommendations? You might also enjoy these books on body positivity. And if you’re looking for even more resources for fitness professionals to combat toxic fitness culture, I highly recommend checking out the website Decolonizing Fitness.
