What's Wrong With A Judgement-Free Zone?
 by Charles Burroughs, BA Health & Kinesiology, CPT-NASM


Let me first begin by saying that I do not support any establishment that encourages hurtful or negative comments or opinions towards any individual because of their size or level of fitness. When I say there is an issue with a "Judgement-Free Zone", I do not mean in the idea itself. After all, how can anyone have a problem with a facility that encourages acceptance and equality amongst its members? The concept is fantastic, and every single gym should create an atmosphere that is positive and encouraging for EVERYONE.

However
 There is a fine line between creating a supportive atmosphere and discouraging growth. What I mean is that fitness is about self-improvement. It is about pushing yourself past your regular comfort zone in order to achieve something greater. It is also about learning what works and what does not. To explain this better, let me use an illustration. Let's say that a man named Jim decides he wants to become a skilled carpenter. How would he go about this? Would you tell him to find a place where only brand new carpenters are allowed, a place that discourages constructive criticism and experts who are knowledgeable in their field? I would hope not, if Jim wishes to become a truly skilled craftsman he has to learn from the best.

My point is that while there is nothing wrong with the basic premise of a "Judgement-Free Zone", to actively enforce this concept is counterintuitive. In an attempt to avoid all judgement, judgement is cast towards the learned and skilled person who can provide invaluable information to the novice; and what was meant to be an "accepting environment" has turned into a place that encourages stagnation and inexperience.

So what is the RIGHT gym? It is a facility that is both supportive AND constructive. It is a place where its staff and members are competent and truly desire for you to see real results. It may cost a few extra dollars a month to find such a place, but the old adage " You get what you pay for" could not be more true. If not for the higher quality equipment, better customer service, and exposure to field expertise, I would personally pay more for a gym to know that I am not just part of a numbers game. If you do not believe that such places exist, look at the parking lot of a facility that charges $10 a month for membership. In its first week, or even month, the lot will be absolutely packed. But if you look at it again six months later, it will optimistically be half full. If this place truly believed that as a member you will be consistent, then their club would be entirely too congested to operate efficiently.

Bottom line: find a gym that is going to help you get you where you want to be, not keep you where you are.


Best Regards,

Charles Burroughs