Have you ever calculated your BMI and discovered that you were "underweight" or "obese" and then pondered solutions on how to become "healthier." My deepest sentiments to anyone who's had that experience because the B.M.I. is B.S. For one, weight isn't a direct indicator of one's health. Two, the person who created the BMI had no medical background. Jacques Quetelet, the creator of the BMI formula, was a mathematician. His whole aim with the BMI was to determine what the "average man" looked like. His data was collected from WHITE European men, suggesting that anything outside of the "ideal" was inferior. So, another reason why the BMI is B.S. - it is rooted in racism.

The racist BMI isn't any surprise to owners and staff at GetFIT 615. GetFIT 615 is an anti-diet culture and actively anti-racist fitness space located on Music Square. They recognize the racism embedded in diet culture and uphold anti-diet and anti-racism values. When I learned what this fitness gym was all about, to say I was intrigued would be an understatement. And after speaking and meeting with the Co-owner Jess Thompson, Founder Kate, and Personal Trainer Squeeze, I can tell you this was more than just "word-seasoning" being sprinkled on their name to sound "woke." They are about their business and what they say! I encourage you to check out the gym for yourself, but in the meantime, I'll walk you through some of my favorite things about GETFIT 615.

They're not about the "call-out" culture. At GetFIT 615, they have boundaries and respect yours. I'll explain. Have you ever been to a workout class that you were not feeling, but the instructor made you feel pressured to stay? Even worst-case scenario, the instructor called you out when you decided to leave (this real-life happened to Kate). Well, you don't have to worry about that at GetFIT 615. They have a 10-minute rule. The rule is, if you get to the gym and still aren't feeling the workout after 10 minutes, they ENCOURAGE you to honor those feelings. You are welcome to come back at a later date. No judgment!

Empowering is more than just a buzzword. No doubt, with great instructors like Jess and Squeeze, you will engage in workouts that will empower you physically, but I think one of the great things about the community here is that they cultivate more than just physical strength. It's something about being empowered through freedom. Each class, a workout is written on the board to aid with structure; however, if you are not feeling one of the exercises, you won't get the side-eye for not doing it. The liberty to choose workouts that work for you is encouraged. You also have the freedom to go at your own pace without an instructor breathing down your neck.

You won't break the bank! You can try the gym for two weeks for ONLY $14. They also have something called Open Gym on Saturdays. Open gym is for members and non-members, and one of the coolest parts about it, you pay what you can to attend. During open gym, you can try out equipment, work out outside, get some advice from Squeeze, and experience all the vibes of this unique fitness gym.

The bottom line At GetFIT 615 … You can walk in without being pressured into being on this strict meal plan that promises you you'll lose weight just to fit a "standard" that is inherently racist and biased.

You can walk in and feel empowered not just because you're getting stronger but because you are being equipped with the tools to help you make your own choices regarding your fitness. You can walk in knowing that you are welcomed regardless of your size, race, sexual orientation, and fitness level. You can walk out knowing that you are part of a community that advocates for change. I could go on and on about why I'm so hyped about this place, but I want you to experience it for yourself. Head over to getFIT615 to learn more.