I totally agree, healthy weightless is actually a process and takes time,

No, they deserved to be explained to about it. The instructor basically said go waste money elsewhere because I'm too lazy to explain even though it's probably part of my job.

Actually, a gym IS a good idea. An overweight person who is not accustomed to exercise could absolutely ruin their joints by going running by themselves without using proper technique. If you damage your joints, that damage is forever since they lack the ability to regenerate. At a good gym, there are trainers that are actually willing to talk to their members instead of turning tail whenever they encounter unrealistic goals. They should also be able to tell OP how to safely do cardio exercises, use his body weight to strengthen his muscles or machines if that's what he prefers. At that price, they should also be able to give recommendations on how to change his diet.

Not to mention, building lean muscle mass is the best way to lose body fat... Not weight, but body fat. Who gives a **** what the scale says if you like what you see in the mirror?

I've always heard it's better to build up your core and calves before you start running. Of course this is specifically for people with Ehlers Danlos, but I can't imagine why it would be bad advice for anyone else

Joint damage is equally likely lifting weights. As a general rule it's best to work out under supervision of a trainer, but proper diet and light running/jogging can correct OPs issue without a need for that. There's no call for the expense if OP just wants to lose 30lbs. We're not talking marathons here, even a mile every other day is generally enough to see quick change.

Exactly... I can't believe how many people are saying the employee was right to do that. I hope he got reprimanded for being so unprofessional