For a lot of bigger people, shame is a real thing that holds us back from beginning our fitness journey. I know this struggle all too well.

“I can’t hike as far as them, so I’m just not going to go.”

“I can’t lift as much as she can, so I’m not going to go with her to the gym.”

“I can’t walk as fast as him, so I’m not going to do the 5k.”

All of those things have gone through my mind at least once in my life. The shame of my body’s limitations held me back from even starting. But when I did try, I realized my strength came from my determination.

And, I found out who my true friends are!  My true friends would encourage me and cheer my victories, even the small ones. My true friends were my spotters at the gym. My true friends were walking beside me the whole way.

And you know what? Sometimes, I had to cheer for myself. When I reached a goal that seemed like a molehill to some, but I knew it was a mountain, I cheered for my damn self! Because you know why, no shame or embarrassment should ever stop us from starting. We may be slower, weaker, and breathe a little harder than some, but we’re capable. And our strength lies in our determination!