Last week, I ran the Ray Swan Flat 8K Race. With no hills, it was my best time yet. I was feeling pretty good and actually noticed that all of the hours I’d been putting in since January with weekly track sessions had paid off.

While I was cooling off, a gentleman approached me and said: “Wow, you were running well out there. I was surprised to see you pass me.

“If you’d lose a little weight you’d surprise a lot of people.”

I was quite shocked that he thought it was OK to make a comment about my body.

I feel that unless someone is asked for their opinion on how someone looks, nothing needs to be said — especially not anything negative.

Even if asked, you must use discretion. We never know how our words affect others.

Words have power over your attitude and behaviour. Let’s look at some things not to say to those that are on their fitness journey — or to anyone at all:

1. If you keep losing weight, you are going to lose your booty

This is directed at the ladies of course. That’s not how most people’s bodies work.

I personally believe that numbers on the scale matter less than what you see in the mirror and how you feel about it. But more importantly, it’s no one’s business telling someone how and where they need to lose weight.

2. You are so obsessed! Is that all you do, work out?

Obviously, we do more than just work out. Yes, we have lives.

Research states that physically active people can actually be some of the most productive people, because being into fitness often involves disciplines that can transfer to other areas of life.

3. That sounds so boring

I’ve heard this many times as I enjoy fitness competitions like “Triple Challenge”, “Tough Mudder” and others.

People don’t have to love the things you like, but they don’t have to be a jerk either. I personally enjoy my fitness life.

I want to encourage you to enjoy yours too, even if you do get the occasional “shade”!

4. You don’t want to get too big

What is too big? What scale are you using to measure this by? I work out because I enjoy the way I feel afterwards.

I like seeing the stats on my watch and I enjoy doing it with friends. What I do not do is work out for anyone else.

Yes, it’s nice to get the occasional compliment, but other people’s opinions are not the reasons I work out week after week.

So, enjoy your workout for you and no one else!

5. You look good, but the muscular look is not for me.

This is again normally directed at women. Firstly, it’s really challenging for women to get a bulky look; we just don’t have the hormones for that.

Working out allows me to feel strong. Having a toned body is just a benefit.

Also, strength is good for everyday life movement, bone density and simply recovering from injury faster.

Stay positive and B-Active For Life!

Betty Doyling is a certified fitness trainer and figure competitor with more than a decade of experience. Check her out on Facebook: www.facebook.com/B.ActiveForLife