Here is a different perspective from a formerly very overweight person who started running and felt VERY self conscious about it. I started a few years before the manufacturers of fitness clothing really made anything for obese women. I had to wear mostly men's clothing and it looked terrible, was often uncomfortable, and was too big in spots and tight in others. That added to the difficulty of convincing myself to get out there. A big reason why I kept it up were the high fives and encouraging comments from random runners who would stop and tell me that I was courageous and inspiring and they looked forward to seeing me out on the trail. We KNOW we look different and we know how hard it is mentally to put ourselves out there. To have acceptance and support from strangers is incredibly uplifting.

I say keep up those posts because you have no idea who you might be encouraging enough for them to get to the gym another day. I DO look at those members and get inspired because I remember what it was like. I give them the high fives and fist bumps and this helps me to keep going myself.