Q & A With Jennifer Portnick

WOM: How has your life changed since you became a public figure as a plus-size aerobics/fitness expert/activist?

Jennifer: In some ways, it's changed pretty dramatically. My story has been featured in newspapers across the globe, and I've been invited to appear on TV shows and speak to groups. As a result I am occasionally recognized in public, which is a new experience for me. On the other hand, I still have the family and friends I had before all this started, which is a blessing.

WOM: What kind of feedback have you gotten from people since your story began making the news?

Jennifer: Hundreds of people have contacted me by phone and e-mail to offer support and encouragement since newspapers started reporting this story back in February. Many of those contacting me have expressed that my story rings true in their own lives, and they have thanked me for standing up for a cause that effects so many of us in so many ways. It has been wonderfully gratifying to hear from so many people who say that size acceptance is making a difference for them. I am grateful to every person who has taken the time to call or write.

WOM: What's happening in the near-future for you and your career?

Jennifer: The newest development in my professional life is that I am now consulting with the YMCA Eastbay - http://www.ymca.net - here in the San Francisco Bay Area to bring the "health at any size" message to their entire population, including instructors and class participants, too. Robert Wilkins, the CEO of the Eastbay Y, believes deeply in this concept and is committed to bringing It to all his facilities. I am also teaching aerobics classes there on Monday nights in addition to my Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday classes in San Francisco. And did I mention I am continuing with my full-time job as a systems trainer? Yes, life is busy!

In other events, I am hosting a movement workshop at the upcoming NAAFA convention and am a featured speaker at the San Francisco Learning Annex - http://www.learningannex.com - this coming August. Several people have approached me about the possibility of writing a book or creating a fitness video, both of which may be coming up in the future.

WOM: Who are the biggest (no pun) role models in your life and why?

Jennifer: I am greatly inspired by people like Marilyn Wann, author of FAT!SO?, who is a role model for all people who refuse to apologize for their size. Sondra Solovay, my brilliant attorney and author of Tipping the Scales of Justice, inspires me daily with the intelligence and commitment she brings to this issue. Marilyn and Sondra are both role models to me.