https://www.crossfitmurphy.com/crossfit-murphy-blog

Fit Shaming When You're Just Getting Started: Why It Happens and How to Rise Above It You’re Trying—So Why Are People Tearing You Down? You’ve made the decision to start showing up. Maybe you’ve joined a gym, committed to your first CrossFit class, or just started taking daily walks. You’re not where you want to be yet, but you’re making the effoen it happens.Someone makes a comment that stings:That’s fit shaming—and yes, it happens even to people just starting their journey.What Is Fit Shaming (When You're Still Working on It)?Fit shaming isn’t just about criticizing people who are already in shape. It’s also about tearing down those who are trying to get there. It’s the eye rolls, the snide comments, or even the sarcastic jokes about your food choices, workout plans, or ambition to live healthier.In other words, it’s being made to feel like you don’t belong in the world of fitness because you’re still a work in progress.But here’s the truth: every fit person was once a beginner too.Why Do People Shame Others for Trying?When you begin improving your habits, some people around you might feel uncomfortable. Here's why that can happen:

Your effort reminds them of their own inaction.They’re afraid you’ll change and leave them behind.They don’t understand your goals or your “why.”They’re projecting their own fears or failures onto you.

It’s not really about you—it’s about how your growth challenges their comfort.The Emotional TollHearing negative feedback when you're giving your best can be disheartening. It can make you question yourself:

Am I doing this wrong?Do I even belong at the gym?Maybe I’ll never be that person who sticks with it…

But the fact that you're even showing up, despite the noise, is proof of your strength. And that’s what matters most.How to Stay the Course (Even When Others Doubt You)1. Remember Why You StartedYour journey is personal. Whether it's for your health, your confidence, your energy, or your kids—your reasons are enough.2. Celebrate the Small WinsYou don’t need a six-pack to be proud. Be proud of showing up today. Be proud of every rep, every walk, every healthier choice.3. Surround Yourself with Uplifting PeopleFind a community—online, in the gym, or among friends—that sees your effort and supports it. One positive voice can drown out ten negative ones.4. Use the Doubt as FuelLet their doubt be the spark, not the weight. Prove to yourself—not them—what you’re capable of.5. Talk to Yourself BetterWhen the world gets loud with judgment, your inner voice becomes your biggest tool. Speak kindly. Speak with courage.Final ThoughtsYou don’t have to be the fastest, fittest, or strongest to deserve respect. You just have to be willing to try—and that already puts you ahead of the pack.To anyone who's starting out and feeling discouraged: keep going. Let them talk. Let them doubt.And while they’re still talking… you’ll be transforming.

“Why are you even bothering?”“You’re not a gym person.”“You’re just going to quit again.”“You're obsessed now just because you went to the gym twice?”

All reactions:44

‍