In his How to Eat, Move, and Be Healthy! presentation, Paul Chek mentions that the average medical doctor dies 10 years younger than their average patient. He goes on to suggest that every healthcare practitioner, including personal trainers and nutritionists, should be able to consult professionally in their underwear! In other words, they should practice what they preach—if they do not represent health, they should not be teaching health.

I completely agree.

How many out-of-shape trainers, nutritionists, dietitians, and doctors do you see giving out advice on how to get in shape? I’ve had several debates with overweight professionals who advocate for Canada’s Food Guide and other similar (high-carb, low-fat) diets for weight loss. And when I say “overweight,” I’m being polite.

It’s no different than going to a strength and conditioning coach to gain strength when that coach can barely squat or bench their own body weight. That might not be such a wise choice.

On the other side of the coin are coaches and trainers who cheat the process by taking drugs. Some even undergo cosmetic surgery. Apparently, the number one client for liposuction is someone within 10 pounds of their ideal weight—often personal trainers and fitness models. These individuals may look in shape, but they’re not necessarily healthy. Unfortunately, it’s not always easy to distinguish poor health from good appearance (see The Day a Budweiser Girl Showed Up at My Door).

They often say you can’t judge a book by its cover, but sometimes you can. Take an honest look at your healthcare provider—ask yourself if that is the type of person you would like to emulate.