How Can the Fitness Industry Work to Remedy the Obesity Crisis

In the United States, the obesity crisis is unprecedented, and the percent of obese and overweight Americans is like nothing we have seen before. This calls of the question of whose responsibility it is to work to remedy this crisis, and how exactly to do that. The root of the problem is a combination of poor nutrition and the fact that many Americans do not have either the means or the opportunity to exercise regularly. Here are some ways in which the fitness industry can work to remedy the obesity crisis:

Create Private Workout Spaces

Often, it can be deterring for those who are overweight to go to gyms because the primary users of gyms are usually people who are very fit. This makes those who are not likely to compare themselves, or feel embarrassment, shame, or that they are not in a place that they are comfortable. This problem can be remedied by creating parts of your gym that offer private spaces for those who would like to work out, and perhaps feel self-conscious of their body.

Offer Information on Nutrition

Having a healthy diet is just as important as exercise when it comes to fitness. Frequently, those trying to get in shape or who are used to eating unhealthy do not have the resources to create a substantial and simultaneously healthy diet. This is a simple remedy — gyms and other fitness organizations can easily provide information and resources on nutrition, as well as how to eat before and after a workout, via pamphlets, posters, or even on their websites.

Offer Free Beginners Classes

Another factor that can be deterring to those who do not regularly exercise is the fact that they may not know what types of exercises to do, or how to properly use certain machines. By offering a free beginners class, in which a trainer or group or trainers teach those attending how to perform specific exercises, you are giving those who do not have a fitness background a more equal playing field and opportunity to work out with the confidence that they are doing it correctly.