There is more than one perspective of the seemingly perfect social media fitness stars we often forget, and it is key before you get swept away with comparing yourself.
Millennials are full of contradictions; on one hand, they are indulging on the double-double wonder burger (as a West Coast girl, this means In-N-Out is my default) with a side of overly-salted triple fried fries in their left hand, while scrolling through the perfectly curated Instagram feeds of trim models performing perfectly finessed squats.
The seemingly benign inspiration to get off the couch and move can prove to be toxic in large amounts when the results are nearly unattainable for the average person. Archaic videos on VCRs with the slow jogs of women in spandex has evolved to a conglomeration of intense cardio or weight-lifting exercises. While everyone may be chasing the Kim K booty or Channing Tatum’s bod, it is important to realize that exercise is meant to be used in moderation and too much, too soon can be physically harmful for your body. However, nevertheless, envy is inevitable with the heightened prevalence of social media to overindulge on the idea of the rigorous routines celebrities subject themselves to is normal and achievable for everyone.
Social media sensations, such as Jen Selter and Tanya Poppett, are known for their fitness routines featuring their trim bodies. Although these fitness celebrities have thousands of Instagram followers, the intentional motivation can transform to the unintentional insecurity. I know that there have been many times that I have looked at myself in the mirror to see I do not have chiseled physique that has been almost expected for those in my age group. Yet, it is important to realize that academics and other extracurriculars may impede in the way for the perfect workout sesh, but at the end of the day, balance is key.
It has been proven time and time again that social media sites like Instagram, Twitter, and Facebook only show the highlight reems we are willing to share. With that being said, the big problem is the products that they promote can be more harmful and rooted in monetary interest of sponsorships, rather than promoting solid products. Many of these products may seem like an easy way to shed the pounds in a shorter period of time or less effort.
One of the most heavily advertised products is called Fit Tea, which contains Garcinia Cambogia extract, which is a well-known ingredient in weight loss supplements, but can be harmful in large doses. However, instead of focusing on the ingredients, many people believe that the supposed health benefits are supported by several notable characters taking a selfie with the tea being carefully held while praising the new vitality the concoction brings. The Kardashian clan, notably Kylie Jenner, use these direct partnerships to bolster the product’s reputation.
Whenever you want to exercise, do it for yourself and your health in mind rather than an ideal image of what you hope to become. With a healthy diet and regular exercise, one could achieve the best version of themselves. Instead of focusing on the social media stars, dedication to self-improvement must take priority. Research what you put into your body and be wary of “too-good-to-be-true" claims. But, never forget that while staying fit may be a priority, treatin’ yo self is also essential to create the best version of you - physically and emotionally.
