The fitness industry is powerful and profitable, but it is failing people. Savvy marketers cherry pick research, paying huge amounts on advertising that targets insecure individuals. This downplays the critical role of diet, discipline and the hard work it takes to see results.
High rates of inactivity, the prevalence of contradictory and misguided information as well as rising obesity rates are proof that the fitness industry is failing and its approach needs to change. World Health Organization statistics show that type 2 diabetes prevalence has risen dramatically over the past three decades and obesity has virtually tripledsince 1975.
Obesity is a leading cause of preventable chronic diseases. In just the United States annual costs are estimated to be between $147 billion and $210 billion. Obesity is associated with increased job absenteeism, costing another $4.3 billion annually and lowering work productivity. In total, obese workers will cost their employers an extra $506 per obese worker just this year.
Too much conflicting and inaccurate information
The problem today is that people are faced with too much information. With the confusing morass of products, apps, strategies and conflicting theories, it’s no wonder that people either hop from program to program or are so confused they don’t know where to start. Most people still don’t know what to do, how much of it to do or how hard to work at it, despite clear physical activity guidelines from health authorities. People are even lead into believing myths such as the fact that they can be fit and fat.
