“Pilates Is Not for You”: Woman’s Fat-Shaming Rant Backfires With Job Loss and Gym Ban

One woman’s attempt to go viral on TikTok took a dramatic turn — from internet fame to real-life fallout. A TikToker known by the handle @succulentaddict8 has sparked intense backlash after posting a series of fat-shaming videos targeting people over 200 pounds. Her comments didn’t just ignite online outrage — they also cost her a gym membership and reportedly, her job.

“Hot Take” Sparks a Firestorm

In the since-deleted video, the woman began with, “This might be a hot take…” and then launched into a rant claiming that people over 200 pounds “shouldn’t be allowed in Pilates classes.” She didn’t stop there. Her tirade continued with statements that “fat people with guts” shouldn’t even be allowed to teach Pilates. Her caption drove the message home: “Go to a gym, people. You don’t belong in a Pilates class.”

She ended the clip with a sarcastic jab: “Is this even real? Is this America? Standards are so f**in’ low.”*

Her remarks quickly made the rounds across social media platforms, racking up thousands of views and even more critical comments. Users didn’t hold back, accusing her of blatant fatphobia, bullying, and using “rage bait” tactics to drive engagement.

From Succulents to Scorn

What made the backlash even more intense was the contrast between this content and the rest of her online presence. The TikToker, who has roughly 30,000 followers, usually shares plant care and succulent tutorials. Her YouTube channel, with 15,000 subscribers, is similarly niche and calming — a stark contrast to the vitriol in her fat-shaming posts.

This mismatch fueled accusations that her comments weren’t sincere opinions, but a strategic move to stir controversy and draw attention to her otherwise quiet platform. Regardless of intent, the internet responded with swift condemnation.

Teary Apology Fails to Convince

After deleting the offensive videos, @succulentaddict8 uploaded an emotional apology. With teary eyes, she confessed: “I think the reason I posted them was because there are some insecurities in me or some self-hate… It’s just so toxic, and I’m just so sorry about that.” She added in the caption: “My last few videos were not okay. I deleted them and feel so embarrassed for my nasty behavior. I’m so sorry if I made you feel any sort of way.”

While some viewers accepted the apology, many remained skeptical. One comment read, “Girl, don’t apologize — that’s who you really are.” Others questioned whether she was truly remorseful or just reacting to the real-world consequences.

@succulentaddict8

My last few videos were not okay, I deleted them and I feel so embarrassed for my nasty behavior. I’m so sorry if I made you feel any sort of way.

♬ original sound – Succulent Addict

Real-Life Repercussions

And the consequences were serious. Following the uproar, her gym revoked her membership, citing her discriminatory remarks as a violation of their inclusive environment. According to multiple commenters on her other videos, her employer was also contacted, with some users reporting that she had been let go from her job due to the controversy.

Even after removing the videos, she couldn’t escape the scrutiny. Her recent posts, even unrelated ones, have been flooded with angry comments like, “You do Pilates? Couldn’t tell,” and “I feel lied to.”

A Cautionary Tale for the Internet Age

This incident is yet another example of how quickly online actions can have offline consequences. In a world where anyone can share their opinions with thousands in seconds, the line between personal expression and public offense is thinner than ever.

Going viral might bring attention — but not all attention is good. As the internet continues to hold people accountable for their words, this situation serves as a powerful reminder: cruelty isn’t edgy, and bigotry doesn’t make you brave — it just might make you unemployed.