When we look at people who are obese, we often assume we’re just seeing people with an eating disorder, but this can be both a superficial and inaccurate assumption. Many times the problems and difficulties that face those living with obesity are much deeper and more personal battles than just food.

As trainers that specialize in assisting the obese with exercise, weight loss, and better health, we know that in addition to diet and exercise, training the obese takes patience, care, gentle hands, and a good ear.

Patience, because of the various setbacks that can occur not only during exercise, but during the course of daily activities… injuries, such as muscle strain, sprains, or joint problems can happen more frequently with the obese. The quality of sleep is also a factor because it can affect physical and mental performance. Weather conditions i.e. wind, heat, cold can cause stiff joints, muscle tightness, trouble breathing, lack of energy, lowered stamina, and extra time for the body to warm up.

These conditions may vary from day to day… and then there are the good days.
Exercise for obese clients is done at a much slower pace. Therefore, there are no instant results. Each day, each week and each month is a valuable step towards their personal goal.

It’s important that we ask our client’s how they’re feeling often. Are you sore? Did you
sleep well? These questions may appear repetitious, but the answers must be known not only to structure the days program and minimize the possibility of injury, but also because as coaches we’re as concerned about how they’re feeling. Losing weight for the obese is a long-term life altering endeavor and compassion goes a long way.

A good ear, because there is a build up of issues, problems, and complaints that may affect the direction of an exercise session. Along with a exercise program, it’s important to give clients undivided attention and support regarding their concerns or insecurities about day to day life.

Gentle hands, because even though an obese person may appear strong, solid and
compact, one still requires care in handling them physically. They are not as flexible and mobile in their movement, therefore programs for obesity must be specially designed to fit specific physical abilities and individual needs.

When an obese person has made the choice to try and lose weight, it’s important that the people around them show understanding and choose their words carefully so as not to discourage. Respond to questions about their progress with encouragement and motivation, because the truth is, if they can keep up the good work, they will get there.