According to The American Council on Exercise (ACE), research indicates that fitness experts can often exhibit weight bias. As a result, the organisation is campaigning for exercise professionals to create a more inclusive fitness environment.

Speaking for ACE, Tasha Edwards says there is a lot of judgement around weight, for example – fitness professionals can make assumptions about an individual’s skill level or commitment based on their body, or assume they want to lose weight. “Health, wellness, endurance and strength are not determined by size,” she says.

“In order to create an inclusive environment, it is important for owners and operators to first identify and address their own biases, as this is the root cause of how cultures are created. Employ management, support staff, trainers and instructors of all ages, sizes and colours.”

Edwards also says avoid adverts which only portray one type of body and stop using phrases like “bikini body” and “do this to get six pack abs”. Choose not to do weight loss challenges, or sell products marketed as weight loss products.

Also, remove anything which draws attention to weight, such as scales and BMI charts. Know the weight limits of equipment and have a variety of equipment, so people don’t feel shame if they can’t “fit” into a narrow weight bench or closed chest press machine.

ACE has launched a new course to counter bias in the sector; Equity, Diversity and Inclusion in the Fitness Industry. This lays the foundation for health and exercise professionals to start building a more inclusive environment.

Topics include the proper terminology, tone, exercises and modifications to employ so clients and prospective clients feel comfortable knowing trainers are properly equipped on how to approach weight bias and stigma in the fitness space.

“For too long, inclusion just hasn’t been a priority of the fitness industry,” says ACE CEO, Scott Goudeseune. “This course will help exercise professionals and health coaches provide effective services to communities that have felt left out of health and fitness spaces.”