For many years research has shown that fitness prolongs and improves life. Consistent effort, discipline and being able to adapt to new or better strategies is what brings success, rather than self-interested marketing. For example, finding innovative ways to increase the effectiveness of training is made possible by advances in technology. Electro Muscular Stimulation (EMS), for instance, is providing a way to decrease workout time from two hours or more to 20 minutes with better results.
The myth that no pain is no gain
Many people tend not to think about exercise, which naturally stimulates endorphins or ‘feel good’ hormones, as pleasurable. They have an “all or nothing” mentality when it comes to exercise which is generally not sustainable. What’s far better for long term health is to engage in consistent, daily exercise of a nature that is sustainable and that requires hard work and discipline.
A focus on aesthetics rather than health
Many fitness companies send the message that the most important thing is to look good. People are told that this trick or shake or strategy will give results with very little effort on their part. The images which make up their publicity campaigns are often unrealistic with models living unhealthy extreme lifestyles. A focus on fitting constant, sustainable exercise and diet into your lifestyle is important for lifelong results.
Promoting guilt and inadequacy
Fitness companies imply that your body isn’t good enough and that their products offer a magical, quick-fix solution to a problem. These messages are considered normal and do not positively encourage those who haven’t experienced the value of consistent exercise to give it a try. The industry is currently too elitist and not inclusive enough of regular people.
An aggressive elitist mindset
Having a personal trainer who works one-on-one with you and drills you hard can improve your physique, but it has been found that exercise classes that have built a social community around them have higher retention rates. Having friends in an exercise class gives you another reason to want to exercise.
