We’ve all been there—stepping into the gym can feel like stepping onto another planet.
This is especially true with the unspoken pressure to have a certain ‘look’.
But here’s a little tale of kindness and encouragement that might just make your next gym visit a bit more pleasant.
The gym can feel like a battlefield, especially for those who don’t fit the typical ‘fit’ image.
Steph, a creative soul from Jacksonville, didn’t let societal norms and a few extra pounds stop her from embracing the gym life.
However, her journey wasn’t without its share of bumps, including some not-so-pleasant encounters with fellow gym members.
Steph took to TikTok to share a surprising and touching interaction with a fellow gym-goer.
Apparently, the man has an appearance that screams ‘hardcore’.
When he approached her, she braced herself for another unpleasant experience, having been subjected to unkind remarks in the past.
Despite her struggles with weight due to medication, Steph was a regular at the gym, fighting her battles silently.
When the tattooed man approached her, she was expecting judgment.
Instead, he gave her praise.
“I’ve seen you in here every week, almost every day. I’ve seen you in here every week—and I’m proud of you.”
His unexpected words of encouragement brought tears to her eyes, as she had been feeling down about her progress.
Steph, who had been wrestling with her insecurities, said, “Being a bigger woman in the gym messes with your head, especially with all the different body types around. It’s even harder for an over-thinker like me.”
This unexpected support was a ray of light in a space where she had felt judged.
Steph emphasized the impact of kindness, saying, “He didn’t know what I’m going through, but he changed my day. I’m grateful for people who encourage us.”
This stranger’s kindness turned her day around and made her feel seen and appreciated.
The video struck a chord with many, amassing over 15 million views.
There was no shortage of supportive comments, either.
Viewers related to Steph’s emotional journey, with comments like, “One person can change everything,” and “Encourage. Support. Be human! It isn’t hard! ❤️” flooding in.
Interestingly, scientific studies have shown that verbal encouragement can play a pivotal role in enhancing performance during high-intensity workouts.
This aligns with Steph’s experience even though the encouragement came after the workout, highlighting the profound impact of positive reinforcement.
The tattooed man’s simple act of kindness highlighted the power of empathy and support.
Steph stressed the importance of encouraging each other, saying, “I was having a really hard day today, but it really made my day. I’m so thankful for people like him.”
A few kind words can not only make someone’s day but also inspire others to spread love and positivity.
Steph’s story with her ‘hardcore’ gym buddy shows us that a little bit of kindness can go a long way in making the world a better place.
See the heartfelt message of thanks that Stephanie shared with the world below!
Please SHARE this with your friends and family.
@stephanies_adventures #gymprogress #workputjourney #keepgoing #healingjourney ♬ original sound – Stephanie
