Now I See Why Planet Fitness Exist
“The world judges, we don’t. At Planet Fitness, Be Free.” This is the brand campaign of the infamous commercial gym corporation that has spread across the US in the recent years. Most fitness enthusiasts, predominately bodybuilders and weightlifters, are not too fund of this gym because they feel excluded and stereotyped by how they are portrayed in the company’s advertisements.
How can your motto be “We are a judgment free zone”, but your advertisements and documented treatment of so many prove otherwise. Do I agree with their method of operation? No. Do I have to spend my money with them? No. Do I understand why their entire promotion is valid? Yes!
Okay, I must admit that I’m guilty for disliking Planet Fitness for their exclusion of certain gym-goers. I just couldn’t fathom why would anyone want to work out in an environment that discriminates against anyone? Well, they aren't discriminating against people, they are excluding negative mind-sets. To explain, I’ve been in the health and fitness spectrum for years. I have experienced so many things and people that are wonderful for the profession. On the other hand, I have also experienced directly and indirectly just as many that are not. This is what sparked me to create this article.
Lately, over the recent years, I have noticed on social media such a huge growth in personal trainers and coaches. They’re either promoting their business, products, or exercises. This is definitely not a bad thing because I’m also one of the many who uses social media to promote my movement. However, there are some trainers/coaches who try to force their methods and interest onto the public. They try to make you feel that if you’re not doing it this way or that way then you’re wasting your time. As if everyone wants to exercise the same way. Don’t allow these so-called experts to deter you from working out the way that pleases you.
When it comes to fitness, there are so many areas to choose from. Crossfit, Zumba, bodybuilding, power lifting, boot camps, general weightlifting, spin classes, aerobic classes, boxing, and the choices are endless. There are also countless gyms and studios to choose from that provide many of those services. How do you choose? Who do you choose? What do you choose?
Well, the answer is, you choose what’s best for you. Everyone is different. There is no one size fits all when it comes to fitness and training. Our goals, our bodies, our interests, and our needs are different than the next person’s. No one should make you feel bad or inadequate for choosing an area of fitness that’s different than theirs’. It’s your body. Everyone doesn’t want to be Incredible Hulk strong or have ripped muscles like an action figure. Most people just want to get up, move, and have fun with the goal of getting healthy and fit.
So yes, now I see why gyms like Planet Fitness exist. They provide an atmosphere that allows normal everyday people to exercise in a fun, relaxed environment. There's no criticism, judging, or laughing from know-it-alls. Please, let’s allow everyone the opportunity to get fit without placing our personal expectations on them. Lets make fitness fun and positive.
Myron Courtney
Finish Strong Fitness
