On the 16th of October, the National Association for Obesity delivered a compelling presentation at Obesity Research Days, an event hosted by the Norwegian Association for Obesity Research.
The session focused on how the experience and accessibility of physical activity are influenced by multiple factors, stressing that promoting exercise without understanding personal barriers fails to address the full picture. Physical, mental, and social health issues all impact one’s ability to engage in physical activity, and internalized weight stigma was highlighted as a significant barrier to well-being.
During the presentation, a poignant statement illustrated the mental toll of weight stigma: “I don’t think the first thing people think of when they see this picture is that I’m an Olympian. But I can promise it has taken an Olympian effort to get here, free from the limiting grip of shame. Not hours of strength training, but mental training in vast quantities.”
The lecture emphasised that reducing stigma and promoting mental well-being are essential in addressing the full scope of health challenges faced by people with obesity, underscoring the need for a more holistic approach to health and fitness.