Let’s Stop Using Exercise as a Tool for Weight Loss

Sustainable Fitness
Written By Meredith Witte
Meredith Witte demonstrating a squat with proper form, representing functional strength and sustainable movement.

I share a lot of potential outcomes you might experience when you build a consistent movement practice — things like improved strength, increased mobility, more energy, better sleep, and a deeper sense of mindfulness and presence in your body.

But one thing I’ve intentionally never promised is weight loss.

And there's a reason for that.

Why Fitness Isn’t the Main Driver of Fat Loss

Despite what flashy headlines, influencer workouts, or bootcamp challenges might claim, the science is very clear: the majority of fat loss happens through nutrition, not exercise.

Yes, movement supports your metabolism, helps you build muscle, and improves countless aspects of health. But fitness classes that promise to “burn back fat” or “shrink your waist” are LYING. We cannot spot reduce fat. That’s not how the body works — it’s just a marketing tactic.

Why This Matters

If we can let go of the literal marketing scam that that we need to use exercise as a tool to shrink ourselves, it gives us the freedom to fall in love with moving our bodies again. It allows us to move because it feels good. Because it helps us function better, feel more grounded, and live with more energy — not just because we’re trying to change how we look.

What If You Do Have Body Composition Goals?

There’s nothing wrong with wanting to change your body. But I believe in honesty and transparency. So if fat loss is a specific goal for you, here’s what you should know:

The Playground is not a weight loss program.

I don’t promise dramatic transformations or before-and-after photos. What I do offer is support for your overall well-being — including strength, mobility, nervous system regulation, and a sustainable relationship with movement.

If weight loss is a goal, the best approach is to work with a registered dietitian — someone trained to help you make intentional, personalized, and realistic changes to your nutrition. A good dietitian will help you prioritize your health and relationship with food while exploring body composition changes in a way that’s supported in science.

So What Is The Playground?

This space is for anyone looking to build a consistent, realistic, and empowering movement practice.

We skip the shame.
We skip the scale.
And we focus on the stuff that actually makes a difference in how you feel every day:

  • Building functional strength in a balanced way

  • Increasing mobility, flexibility & stability

  • Feeling more energized & less depleted

  • Mitigating pain & the potential for future injury

  • Developing a love of movement that lasts a lifetime

And if that sounds like something you’re craving — you’re more than welcome to join us 👇

 
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Hey there, I'm Mer!

I'm a movement specialist, mama, and founder of The Playground — a space where sustainable strength, mobility, and nervous system care come together. I believe movement should feel good, not like punishment. Around here, we train for real life, not perfection. Ready to feel stronger, more grounded, and more like you? Let’s move.

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Meredith Witte

Meredith Witte is a certified functional strength coach and yoga instructor with a Master’s degree in Exercise Physiology from Columbia University. She is the founder of The Playground, a digital fitness studio offering sustainable, strength-based workouts for real life. Meredith is passionate about helping people reconnect with their bodies through movement that builds strength, enhances mobility, and supports nervous system health.

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