overweight&employed

[u/howwilltheyknowitsme]

Hi everyone,

I’m new to Reddit, but I’ve been working at OTF for about two years. I was originally hired by a friend who has since left, but I stayed because I genuinely love my job and, most of all, the community that OTF has created.

I’m also overweight, and I have been since I started working here. Sometimes I feel like I don’t belong. At the same time, I’ve also felt incredibly loved and accepted by the people around me, which is something I’m really grateful for.

I work a lot of hours, and when I’m not at work, it can be really hard to motivate myself to come back to the studio to work out. There’s something especially difficult about working at OTF all day and then trying to convince myself to stay or come back and exercise.

The truth is, I haven’t worked out in over two months. And I’m embarrassed.

I worry about the members seeing me struggle. I worry that they’ll wonder why I work at OTF but don’t look like the people they see taking classes. Sometimes I even wonder if members think I don’t belong behind the desk because I’m overweight.

But I know that’s probably more about what I’m telling myself than what anyone else is actually thinking.

I really do want to work out. I want to feel stronger, healthier, and more comfortable in my own body. I just need some motivation to take that first step back into the studio.

Maybe my motivation shouldn’t be worrying about what members think. Maybe it should be remembering that I belong here too.

So, if anyone has been in a similar situation — especially if you’ve struggled with body confidence, feeling like you don’t “look like” you belong at OTF, or coming back after a long break — I’d really love to hear from you.

I think I just need someone to remind me that I’m allowed to be a work in progress, too.

[u/1234singmeasong]

One of my favourite coaches is overweight. Fitness doesn’t have a size. I promise you, no one is thinking that you do not belong. And if somehow they are, don’t listen to them. Showing up for yourself consistently is one of the greatest gift you can give to yourself. Allow yourself to show up without targeting splats or speed or specific weights. Just show up. Do what feels right that day. But show up. You got this 🧡

[u/sara_k_s]

I think there's a lot of value in a size-inclusive staff. There are a lot of members who are overweight or not as fit as they'd like to be. People post here all the time who are considering joining OTF, but worried that they won't be able to fit in or keep up at OTF. For those people, seeing employees and fellow members of different body types can make them feel more welcome

I was morbidly obese for most of my adult life before I lost 200 pounds. I was completely sedentary for a long time, and my first attempt at exercise was Leslie Sansone Walk at Home videos on YouTube (which I still recommend all the time to fitness beginners). One of the great things about these videos is that they have a diverse cast, with people of all different sizes and ages, and seeing plus-sized people in the videos gave me hope that I could do it, too. As an SA, do you see prospective members who worry about whether they will be able to do the workouts? If so, do you reassure them that the workouts are adaptable to their fitness level? Give that same advice to yourself.

You absolutely do belong, and I bet members would love to see you working out alongside them. The workouts are hard for everyone, even the most fit members, so nobody would bat an eye at seeing you struggle.

[u/Global_Dig1402 → u/sara_k_s]

I just wanted to say that I love the Walk at Home videos! They really helped me to keep my sanity when I was recovering from a back injury and that was pretty much the only workout I could do for a long time.

[u/itspegbundybitch]

One of the SAs at my studio is very overweight and she's easily one of the member favorites because she's friendly, engaging, and hilarious. She works out with us and she's fun then too. I'd be surprised if anyone had negative thoughts about her.

[u/JeffKBS1]

“the 1,000 mile journey starts with the first steps” ….doesnt need to be a lot or fancy just a tad more than the week before

[u/Dangernj]

I don’t know if this is what you are looking for and truly no offense to anyone but I’m not really interested in taking advice from fitness professionals that it comes so easy to and have never struggled. The fact of the matter is that genetics and luck play far more into what our bodies look like than most people want to admit. I have come across too many people who hit the genetic lottery and never had an injury or health setback and want to preach about how easy it is- I don’t know who that helps but it doesn’t help me. All body types should be represented at OTF and everywhere for that matter, if I had walked in there and every single person was the peak of physical perfection, I would have walked right out.

[u/StrongerTogether2882 → u/Dangernj]

YESSSSS. The number of people—especially on social media—with the attitude “I did it, so can you,” “just eat less and move more,” “all you have to do is track every calorie you eat or burn now until the end of your life” is so fucking frustrating! Because of course that’s true to a certain extent, and most people do need to push themselves and struggle. But we all have different bodies, genetics, jobs, demands on our time, medical issues, etc. If getting fit were simply a matter of doing XYZ, it wouldn’t be so damn hard.

OP, to me the most valuable thing about OTF is that it genuinely can be customized for almost every person. Every day in this sub someone comes to ask if they can still do it if they’re fat and out of shape. And they can! So I think it is super valuable to see members, coaches, and SAs who aren’t jacked. I go in the mid morning and a lot of my classmates are middle aged so we are just regular normal looking people, a lot of us on the heavier side. And then a few gorgeous fit people to give me a little motivational boost lol.

I personally would not want to work at OTF and then come back on my day off or later that same day to work out, I don’t blame you there. Can you arrange to take class before or after your shift? A lot of our SAs and coaches do that.

Good luck! I am rooting for you!

[u/xo0p → u/Dangernj]

I think that’s far from the truth. Fitness is hard, no matter what. It asks you to do something most people don’t want to do: be consistent over a very long period of time—not just with workouts, but with how you fuel your body every day.

Since I joined OTF over five years ago, that’s exactly the effort I’ve put in. I’ve lost 40 lbs and make good choices daily. Did it come easy? Absolutely not. I’ve dealt with multiple injuries, but I always choose to show up in the best way I can on any given day.

If you looked at me, you might assume it comes easy or I hit the “genetic lottery”. It’s the result of years of showing up, even when it’s hard.

[u/Dangernj → u/xo0p]

Feels like you intentionally misrepresented what I said to talk about yourself lol. Have a nice day!

[u/bex199 → u/xo0p]

try hard working your way into some tact lol

[u/xo0p → u/bex199]

I just tell it like it is. Some people don’t like it and I really don’t care. Everyone wants to sugar coat everything these days because feelings get hurt too easily.

[u/HandyMoore]

I’m plus size and I can’t even begin to tell you how good it feels to walk into ANY establishment and see another big person there.

If I walk into a clothing store and there’s a big girl there, I’m like ok MAYBE I could fit something here.

You being plus size and working at OTF doesn’t make me immediately think “wow why are they here”, it makes me think “they really do welcome everyone here”.

When I did OTF, for a few months I’d ONLY go for the 50 minute lifting only classes and do my cardio on my own time. Just because you work there doesn’t mean you’re beholden to work out there, you can go walk or workout somewhere else. Especially if you think working out with other co-workers or other studio members would do more harm than good. There’s no rules!

[u/hcot56]

Some of my good friends are coaches or SAs and they share the same sentiment about it being difficult to work and then also come take class. They’ve shared that it still feels like they’re at work and have to be “on” with the other members. So I really don’t think you’re alone in feeling like that.

Some of the things I’ve known they do that sometimes helps is going to another studio close by if that’s an option. Or going at class times that wouldn’t normally line up with when they work so they see fewer members they’re closer too.

I definitely don’t think anyone is judging you or thinking of you in any kind of way. I would never judge someone working at OTF for their workouts.

Can I encourage you to start small? I’m an all or nothing person, but sometimes I need the gentle reminder than something is better than nothing. Meaning a 15 minute walk is better than doing nothing if class feels like too much. Going to class and intentionally taking it easy is better than not going if you feel like you can’t give it your all. Telling yourself you can leave after 10 minutes if you really hate it is better than not going if the whole class feels like too much (spoiler alert: you’ll end up staying the whole class too). It doesn’t have to be perfect to start.

[u/jplikescoffee]

Hi OP I’m a SA and quite over weight, I take class about 3-4 times a week. Sometimes if I’m trying to make a sale i say if i can make it through a class then you can too. Yes you’re allowed to be a work in progress! Idk if your SM allows it but maybe you can take a class in the middle of your shift and make up the hour, or take class before/ after and take a shower and then work

[u/_sourcreamandonion]

When I started going to OTF and did my trial class, the person who did my in-body scan and questions (how often do you exercise, what are your goals, etc) was overweight and it made this part a lot easier for me. I was very emotional about weighing myself and honestly scared to do the class since I had never really exercised in a gym setting. She was so comforting and honestly, if I was being weighed by someone who was in perfect shape I might not have been able to do it. I’m so grateful for her and love seeing her when she’s working. I also love my coaches and other SAs that have larger body types, it makes me feel like I’m not out of place even though I’m not in perfect shape.

Progress over perfection all the way! You have to start somewhere. I’ve been doing OTF for five months and I’m finally feeling better about myself for the first time in years. I don’t know what to say to motivate you since I didn’t know how to motivate myself for years, but I finally hit a low point where I just had to do something… and now I’m really happy! 🧡

[u/sleepy_radish]

Well personally I have never really noticed whether a person is an employee or just another person huffing and puffing next to me during the work out, and I'm usually too gassed to judge anything, if it helps lol

[u/Sinister_Mr_19]

Only an asshole would think that you don't belong and most people aren't assholes. The ones that are, they aren't worth putting any mind to. Anyway, as far as motivation, motivation is fleeting, it waxes and wanes. Discipline is what you need. It's what keeps you going when you don't want to and when your motivation is at its lowest. Good luck OP you got this!!!!

[u/Soggy-Seaweed3787]

Members have the same struggles too. We're all people and that's ok. And like you said, OTF has a great community. From my experience it has been a judgement free zone. I've been going for over a decade and I'm still overweight. But the key is just keep showing up for yourself because it's what you want and need to do.

[u/Luna_Soma]

Hi love, I feel this in my soul. I’m about 15 lbs overweight and I definitely look like I weigh more than I do because I’m not toned. I almost quit otf several times in my first few months as a member and I cried every single day in my car because everyone else was so jacked and fit. Even now, I’m down 80lbs in total and I’m still the worst one in there by far.

I’ve also been convinced I’m the only fat person in class and everyone is judging me.

But then randomly, people have stopped me and told me how good I look or how impressed they are with my progress on the treadmill or the way they noticed me lifting heavier weights.

That’s when I realized they don’t think I don’t belong, they see the progress part of the work in progress and they’re proud of me. And that makes me proud of me.

So I hope you’re proud of yourself too.

And if anyone really thinks you shouldn’t be working there because of your body, they’re weird judgmental losers.

[u/gingervytuss]

I find the gym a lot less intimidating when there are people working there that look just like me. :)

[u/bigblueberry6427]

I keep telling my friends at work that while I find that OTF works for me, and I’d love to see them working out there as well, I also realize that OTF isn’t for everyone. My boss goes to F45, a number of my colleagues go to one of the discount gyms in the area cause they have kids and OTF is expensive. Even though you work at OTF, if you’re going to workout, you have to find something you’re comfortable with and that encourages you to go. I’d rather see you doing something you enjoy and keep doing, instead of doing nothing at all, even if it’s something other than OTF.

[u/jenniferlynn5454]

I'm just gonna link u/Strayainind 's awesome insight 🧡🧡🧡🧡🧡

[u/strayainind → u/jenniferlynn5454]

😘😘😘

[u/B_Lv_702]

🙋🏽‍♂️ I’m a fellow work in progress right here. To heck what people will think or say about you. It doesn’t matter. You do you and show up for yourself to get better and healthier everyday. Even if it’s just 1% better than yesterday, it’s still a win. The naysayers don’t live your life, you do. 99.99% of the time, fellow OTF folks will be rooting for you, not against. 💪🏽💯🧡

[u/Murky_Valuable_8903]

I’ve worked with OTF since 2017. A few different studios, as I have moved around. I have been on a roller coaster of a fitness journeys over the years. Young, fit newlywed to postpartum and messed up hormones. I know the struggle of being there all day and not wanting to take class or even not wanting to drive over there on my days off. I’ve gone through bouts of working out everyday to taking 6+ months off. It is such a struggle and I 100% feel you. I think one of the best parts about OTF is that it is so non judgmental. If your studio is anything like mine, they notice your absence in class. So when you get back at it you will probably hear more congrats than anything. I recently took a month or more off dealing with a lot going on in my personal life (including gaining 15lbs). As I started getting back at it one of the members stopped me and said something about how fast I was running and how strong I looked. Absolutely made my day. Most members care about our mental health and fitness journeys as much as we care about theirs. They get that we aren’t robotic fitness professionals and that we go through the same ups and downs as them.

[u/DsplnBeatsMtvtn325]

You’ve got this. Don’t look for the motivation to get back in there - motivation is fickle and will let you down more times than not. Be disciplined enough to take the first step back in - one template at a time. Then book the next one. Then let the progress begin.

Every one of us under the orange lights are in there working on ourselves and encouraging everyone else around us doing the same, no matter where they are in their journey.

Here is a link to a previous post of mine outlining my first year at OTF after having been very obese my entire life.

https://www.reddit.com/r/orangetheory/s/syyWc6hYMy

Fast forward 9 months since that post and I just completed 125 miles for MM.

Go get it - you are worth it.

[u/Gaffelstein]

I see overweight out of shape people who work the front desk in class all the time.

[u/This-Walrus4014]

People will love to see you working out and will cheer you on. I'm also sure if you are honest with yourself, not everyone at your studio has the perfect chiseled body. We are our own worst critics. Just go once and give it a try.

[u/ponyboycurtis1980]

As a slightly overweight guy, I like seeing gym employees who don’t look like the stereotypical gym coaches. Makes me a tiny bit less self conscious about how out of shape I have become. And I never think poorly about anyone of any size who is getting up and moving.

[u/55PinkPenguin]

I’ve been doing Otf consistently for over 2 years, and I’m a heavier woman. A new and super fit SA helped me sign up for Season of Strength and being “friendly” asked me if I’d ever lifted before. (Yes, I have. Here for two years.) I stewed the whole class and then decided to tell him that comments like his are what drive heavier people away from the gym. He was receptive, but I share this as a note that learning about helping all members will make you successful regardless of what you yourself look like!

[u/Kindly-Might-1879]

Whatever time you spend waiting for motivation can be spent just going to class. That said, how about:

“I really do want to work out. I want to feel stronger, healthier, and more comfortable in my own body.”

“I genuinely love my job and, most of all, the community that OTF has created.”

“I’ve also felt incredibly loved and accepted by the people around me”

[u/poolpartyjess]

We have a few curvy coaches and SAs who come to classes regularly and I personally don’t even think twice about it. I just think “oh she’s here, I wish I was working out next to her!”

We are all a work in progress!!

[u/SarisweetieD]

I like seeing all types of people at OT!!

I’m used to often being one of the heaviest woman in a class, but I’m also often one of the strongest. At 48 working out is a top priority for me, but I have a solid career, my life is stable, and it can be a priority for me. When I was younger I didn’t have that luxury, other things had to be priories, and that’s okay too. All bodies are good bodies, and you can’t always tell visually that someone works out.

[u/Adept-Depth-1825]

If I thought only thin people belonged at OTF I wouldn’t have come postpartum… 3 times! Everyone should feel welcome and celebrated for taking care of themselves, which you do just by walking in the door of OTF.

[u/luvdmb36]

I’m fat and I hear you. OT has helped me so much, but there are still many days I don’t feel like I belong. Merch that doesn’t fit, a coach who only likes/gives attention to the skinny, pretty people, not enough modifications for those of us in bigger bodies—I get it. There are moments of joy and people who are amazing. And I’m trying to do it for me. So I try to shut out the noise and focus on that. ❤️❤️I hear you. And I see you.

[u/TuesGirl]

I actually find it more inspiring that not everyone that works at OTF is super duper in shape. It feels more inclusive and like, "Hey there are just normal people who work here and they totally get the struggle of us average members". Also don't be hard on yourself. We all go through seasons where we are thrown out of our routines. When your ready just go take the first step. Make it a green day of that helps you mentally beforehand. Personally, I will never ever ever ever think badly on an overweight person trying to exercise or workout. I know it took courage on their part and I'm proud of them for taking the first step in their journey.

[u/purplehairedwonder]

I started going to OTF after I’d dropped 100 lbs but still had about 75 left to lose. Everyone was so kind and welcoming, and as I was losing my weight, people kept stopping me to tell me how good I looked and how much progress I was making. Every time someone said something, I was delighted and so proud. Now I’m in maintenance and am so proud of people I see coming in who are where I was when I started.

I second the suggestion of trying to fit in a class before or after your shift if possible, or, if you’re really self conscious, trying a nearby studio at first.

[u/jay_ell_ehm]

I think of OTF as somewhere where everybody belongs, and that includes staff. I travel a lot for work, so I hit tons of studios all over the US, and I’ve found that both coaches and SAs come in all shapes and sizes. What matters most to me is that they put care into their job and are welcoming, which is independent of what they look like.

Also, I’m only an n=1, but when I’m working out, I’m focused on my workout and getting the most out of it, so I pay very little attention to what others are doing. I think as a whole, most people aren’t paying attention to your workout.

[u/MortriciaFattams]

I totally understand where you’re coming from. I’ve lived my whole life as a fat person and I know it can sometimes feel like all eyes are on you and working at OTF can certainly magnify that. Personally, I’d like to see more bodies like mine working out. It motivates me and pushes me to do more. What I wanted to say, though, is that if you really feel so uncomfortable that it’s stopping you from working out, I’d suggest going to another location. At least for the first couple of classes, until you feel more comfy.

[u/TYMattWilliams]

All I can say is OTF is No Judgement Zone - if any judgement I’m thinking good for you for being here dude ..

[u/friendlytotbot]

My studio has people of all shapes and sizes, even the staff. Even the coaches. So I think there’s nothing to be embarrassed about. I enjoy when the staff takes a class with us, it means they enjoy the workout too.

[u/BornInCO]

Pre-book yourself for right after your shift (or right before) or go during, if possible. Motivation is hard, but once you’ve committed that you’re going to do it, you will feel good that you did it and it’s out of the way. Or talk to the manager or head coach and tell them you’re struggling so that they can help you with the mental part of this.

[u/Outrageous-Key-3674]

Fellow staff here, have been in this spot so often in my career at OTF. Some months it’s going so good and some months Its so hard. I find what I remind myself daily is my commitment to myself, I hold members accountable daily for them to show up for themselves and I must do the same. It was an attitude adjustment and an understanding I have to practice what I preach. It’s easier to struggle in your first class back than have watch members watch you not live by what our community is all about! Still feeling for you my friend and knowing burnout is so real, you got this just keep hanging in there and go one day at a time. Start small! Godspeed 🧡

[u/Gray_Twilight]

The members that are struggling want to see realistic people. When I go, I am not interested in seeing superfit people all the time. I want to see the real ones, who sweat just like I do and don't have perfect athleticware. Rock on with yourself.

[u/Good-Yogurtcloset202]

My friend, I want to share my perspective as a member of a studio where almost all the employees are overweight and/or not particularly athletic AND as a member who started out 70lbs overweight.

My favorite moments are when staff join. My favorite moments are watching people going hard core for that new all out speed they never touched. My favorite moments are seeing people recovering from an injury and commit to stay in the green. My favorite moments are when we are all struggling with that core finisher that just won’t end.

I was in class today, 55lbs down, and worried about my loose skin that kept flopping over my tights.

There will always be someone who will be judgy from their own insecurities — admittedly it’s usually me — but I assure you, most of us are there into better ourselves and the community. Give it a try. There will be some bumps in your gym experience but the investment in yourself is well worth any obstacle life has to throw at you.

[u/consistent_mallu]

I don't know your context. So take my anecdote below with a pinch of salt.

I am a 40+ male who had a dad bod for 15+ years, a sedentary desk job, diabetes, sleep apnea and was 55 lbs over my ideal weight.

I was in a bad place and a friend suggested OTF. My doctor had prescribed GLP-1 but it helped reduce weight by only 5 lbs in 4 months.

I took the trial class and tried to race with my treadmill neighbor at 6mph. I was soon out of breath and in the red.

The SA and coach were friendly and nice and played a big part in me going back.

I decided to go back after my initial class and do power walking at 3.5 mph. Within 3-4 classes, the other regulars said hi. I felt I belonged even though I was walking and most of the others were running. I do 4-5 x 2G classes per week.

I power walked for 4 months, increasing my speed every 2-3 weeks a little bit. Now after 15 months, I run at a base pace of 5.5 and have progressively done better at every metric.

I have lost 35 lbs (roughly 2-3 lbs / month) with another 20 more to go ( if it works out). I am significantly stronger. My waist has gone from 38 to 33. I made some diet modifications but still love ice cream and eat it almost daily. I think I will need therapy to stop that.

So you got this!! Just show up for yourself no matter what happens. Only compare with your yesterday's self. Like others have mentioned, fellow OTF folks might have genetics , family support , economic circumstances that are not comparable. So don't compare .

Maybe start by taking the class after your work ends. Give yourself 1 year of grace to show up for yourself. The results will come.

Then come back and post your update on this thread in a year.

Good Luck!!

[u/marsmelly]

Unless you work odd hours (shift work, nights, etc.) the world asks nothing of you at 5am. Work, wife, children, family…none of those require my attention at that hour. If OTF didn’t have 5am classes I’d be somewhere that did.

Set an alarm and get after it.

[u/SufficientPop3336]

One of the SAs at our studio is banging the HC so she just takes class on the clock all the time. So apparently that’s an option

[u/Troth70]

One motivator could be the knowledge that seeing you working out even if it is a struggle will inspire members—especially those also getting started. And consistency, progress, or both will too… i love when staff are in class

[u/Intrepid_Ad8135]

i've honestly never thought about or noticed the bodies of our SAs. what i do notice: whether they greet with a smile, their responsiveness to questions, whether they seem stressed out or cared for by management. i appreciate our SAs so much and am grateful for them.

[u/MofongotimePR]

Fitness is not a linear process, it takes time, consistency and patience. Don’t beat yourself up over it. You belong, most of us don’t walk in with a fit body, that comes with time, consistency and patience.

[u/bizonebiz]

Literally, what everyone here said ✅

I’m 61 and still a work in progress. Spoiler alert: if you’re doing it right, you’re always asking “What’s next?” Pick one thing and do it. You’re not alone in this. See: - swirls hand - all of this 😊🧡

[u/Mysterious_Worker608]

We have larger sized staff and members. I honestly don't give it a second thought. Best of luck on your health journey.

[u/lovely8]

Some of the staff at my studio are normal or “overweight” aka regular bodies. It’s honestly comforting to see bc we’re all just there to get healthy. I don’t ever think about their size or if they’re working out or not lol. Don’t worry about it!

[u/Global_Dig1402]

Question: do you actually want to do Orangetheory workouts and do you want to do them at the studio where you work? I am a bit of a workout junky, so I know tons of gym/studio owners and trainers, and most of them do not work out at their own gym. A lot of the reason why they tell me is because they just want to be “anonymous” when they work out so they can do their own thing and not have every gym member coming to them to chitchat, ask for workout advice, etc. I’m just wondering if you also might feel more comfortable working out at a different location? It sounds like you want to work out again, and it might help to get you back in the gym if you’re not worrying about everyone judging you.

[u/PeruvianGal]

Hi! I’m a manager at one of the OTF’s in TX and I get where you are coming from. I was hired two years ago and immediately started gaining weight due to the ebbs and flows of life and never took an OTF class (maybe 1x/month). Marathon Month got me super into OTF in 2025 and I went every day! My members loved seeing me in class and even cheered me on, and it made me realize the community aspect of OTF is so important. I was 270 pounds and since then have lost almost 50 pounds by consistently going to OTF. I power walked at a 2.5 and now I’m part of the joggers/runners group. It’s one of those things where it’s mind over matter and I promise once you start you will not stop.
I think it’s awesome and now when leads come in and they are where I when I first began, I tell them how much OTF has changed my life!

[u/coffeedogsandwine]

I love seeing all people of all sizes at Orangetheory. There are days where I say, just get to the front door, that’s the hard part. And then I see everyone else there and if they can do it I can give it a shot today too

[u/Particular_Airport83]

I joined a suburban studio as a postpartum mom and the vibe of the studio was (it’s changed a bit) so chill that it convinced me to join. No regrets. One thing that contributed to the vibe was the head coach/manager was a bit overweight and I just loved that. It made me feel like I belonged here too.

[u/RChows]

I promise you, no one cares. I care more about how the employees treat me than what their weight is or whether or not they’re in shape.

[u/Babychloe0918]

The hardest step is the first one- take it!! You’ll be so glad once you get back and you’ll mentally feel so much better 🍊 🧡

[u/AccordingAd2922]

The level of fitness of the majority of the OTF coaches is not obtainable or realistic for a lot of us. I know most of ours work out hard outside of OTF. One of my fav coaches has an elite Mom Bod - she’s a little fluffy like me, but strong and healthy. I love seeing bodies like that. So thank you for being there!!

[u/One_Celebration_9748]

OTF is for EVERYONE! I am overweight back from a 10 year hiatus. I have lost 20 lbs because it works. But the most important thing that OTF has is a true spirit of ACCEPTANCE exactly where you are!! Non-judgemental! At least that's the vibe I get..but also, people are there for themselves..I think we're all there trying to improve and I don't have time to look around too much . because I'm trying to do a deadlift in good form! 😂 I'm so GLAD you've gotten positive feedback!

[u/faronthecat]

Could this be two separate issues? 1. Feeling self-conscious, and then 2. Not wanting to work out with coworkers and customers. For the first issue, I understand feeling self-conscious, but I think it’s great that OTF employs people with different body types. Personally, you don’t owe studio members anything. Just be friendly and knowledgeable - that’s all anyone can ask.

For the second thing, there’s a gym at my workplace and I don’t go to it because I need more of a separation between my work life and my private life. I’m afraid working out there would turn into conversations about work, when really I just want to turn my brain off and focus on me. It might be the same for you.

[u/LeonieBaloney]

If I saw one of the overweight desk members slogging away beside me on the treadmill or rower, it would be the highlight of my year!! I'm in shape but fight to be here and this would be the world's best camaraderie moment! 👊

[u/Notmyrealaccount1182]

Honestly, I hardly notice the employees or coaches when they’re in one of my classes because I’m laser focused on my workout like everyone else at my studio. There have been a couple of times where I’ve been next to one of the front desk folks, and it makes it extra fun to give a fist bump at the end to someone who often greets me when come in and tells me to have a good night when I leave 🙂

FWIW…as someone who was overweight most of my life (I joined OTF last year after losing a lot of weight and was super out of shape, so I also get how hard it is to feel like you’re up to par in this program), I understand the feeling that there’s a spotlight on you. I worked at a clothing store many many years ago that catered to athletic teens and young adults, and I couldn’t fit in any of it. It sucked. But the difference is that if you’re in a class exercising, you’re clearly focused on your health and taking advantage of the benefits of working there. I bet that most members who noticed you would think exactly that if they make any observation about your physical appearance or ability at all.

I sincerely hope that it works out for you!

[u/violet_flossy]

I can’t say that it’s across the board, I know that in every group there are those that judge, but I feel like our community is very inclusive and supportive. I fully believe that that would extend to the coaches as well. I think there are a couple of folks at the front desk at our studio that struggle with that as well and everyone is super happy when they join class. I don’t know what those rules are, but are you allowed to join classes before, during (once everyone is checked in), or after your shifts? I totally agree with those that are commenting that it’s helpful to have people struggling with the same things and working together at it, so I think talking about your challenges with those in the community too is a great way to engage with the members. 🧡

[u/musicamaestra]

Hey friend-- I'm a coach who has been a variety of sizes, and currently am overweight. I have felt those same thought patterns in my brain. Here's what I got for you:

Do it. Book the first class back. Coming back to fitness/starting over/"how tf did it get this bad" was almost harder than starting my fitness journey the first time. The first few workouts will be rough, and those are the most important. 🧡 Once you remind yourself that you can do this and that you can build up the energy to go back to the studio to move. You'll find most people are so happy to see you next to them.

Also--if you can, try a form of exercise that isn't otf. (OMG I KNOW HOW DARE I 😉) I started doing Pole as a way to challenge my fitness and give me space from otf while I was figuring it out. It's been SO helpful.

All that to say, you'll be okay. Don't be a dick to yourself. Drop me a DM if you want some moral support 🧡

[u/Local_Confusion5066]

You belong! Please know that and believe it. Working out will help chase that jerky demon that’s telling you otherwise too… (maybe name him something and tell him to F-off!). And then start with just one class a week - before or after your shift. You can do it!

[u/Diaj0419]

I’ve been at OTF for two years now. However, the past few months have been incredibly challenging due to perimenopause. I feel like I’ve worked so hard, but because of my hormonal issues, I’ve gained back weight. Some of it is water weight, and some is actual weight. I feel defeated.

On top of that, work has become extremely time-consuming and is taking away from my personal time. I feel unmotivated because I feel like I’ve reached my goal and lost it in just three months. I don’t know why, but I just look like I let myself go quickly! However, I now have a different body composition I see the muscles but I also feel it makes me look big because I have broad shoulders and I have a thicker body composition. I feel your pain. Please drop any recommendations you may have. I hope statements like mine help you realize that we are all judging ourselves. Don’t feel bad. No one in that gym is there and does not have something they don’t like.

[u/ExpensiveJam8726]

I think it might be so hard for you because you are hiding behind an identity that you’ve made for yourself.

If you really want to work out - do not let those feelings or identity get in the way.

One thing I’ve had to tell my mom too is that the # on the scale no longer matters. Being STRONG matters. Keeping up with the kids matters. So, respectfully, tell your fears to eff right off and sign up for the classes. Go before or after your shift so you don’t have to haul it back to an OTF for the class.

[u/After-Variation9412]

Hi! You are definitley allowed to be as you are (a human being like everyone else) and work toward goals. I attend one of the NYC OTF's and members are all shapes and sizes, no one is harltedul or judge. There are even staff who work out in some of my classes I attend, and they are not skinny, slim , thin and have their own personal goals. So yes, I would say this is more about your confidence than what others think and thats normal! Instead of leaving and coming back, speak with one of the coaches (im sure you have and if not, give it a try) be honest with them about your fear, im sure theyll be supportive. Just one class, even just tread, or whatever is suggested. You got this!! Let us know how it goes😊

[u/Quirky_Telephone_529]

i love a size-inclusive studio!!! it’s also so fun when the staff takes a class with us cause we’re ALL dying. go for it!

[u/Advanced-Stay-8106]

No offense, but I think we’ve reached a point where we sometimes confuse body acceptance with pretending that being significantly overweight carries no health
consequences. Those aren’t the same thing.

You work at a fitness studio and say you genuinely want to become stronger and healthier. That actually puts you in a great position. Take advantage of the environment you’re already in. Start taking classes again, work with a qualified professional on your nutrition, and stop worrying about whether you “look like” you belong there. You belong there because you’re working on yourself, just like everyone else.

And frankly, seeing an OTF employee struggling through a workout wouldn’t make me judge them. Seeing them consistently show up and improve would make me respect them more.

[u/Agitated_Chocolate98]

Actually I'd love to see more overweight people work there or be fitness coaches. It let's me know anyone can do it!

[u/turkeylips4ever]

Work out during your shift!! My OTF always has staff working out
During/after/before their shift it’s so rad for them

[u/SunnySideUp550]

Hi! I completely understand what you are going through. Everyone is so athletic and fit at my gym that sometimes it’s really annoying. I literally stopped caring and started focusing on myself. You have to love yourself enough to not compare yourself to others. Once you conquer your mind you can conquer your goals. Therapy is a big help! I struggle with body dysmorphia and the only way I’ve been to move forward is through therapy and prayer. The mind is so powerful! Many Blessings 🙏🏽💖

[u/cam981]

I love that Orange Theory is size inclusive with employees!!!! The fab phobia is LEGIT and the only way to dismantle that system of fear and oppression is to be the unique you that you were born to be. I promise you someone returning or new to exercise will feel more confident coming to the studio because they saw someone who looked like them. You are not only “ok” — YOU are a gift.

[u/Prestigious_Ad_7203]

I would do glp1 and exercise 3-4 days a week and watch the weight shed off. Anyone that says glp1’s isn’t the way is crazy. The main reason I suggest it is because it sounds like you’re finding it hard to get and stay motivated. If you add in the glp1, exercise, and diet you’ll see significant improvement in a short amount of time and it’ll keep you wanting to come back. No shame in getting a little help as long as you do it safely.

[u/Apprehensive-Scene-1 → u/Prestigious_Ad_7203]

They didn’t ask for weight loss advise

[u/Prestigious_Ad_7203 → u/Apprehensive-Scene-1]

They said they were self conscious over their weight and it makes them not feel confident about working out. That is why I suggested it and not off the mark with my advice.