The impact of gym culture on mental health: A double-edged sword

In the modern world focused on fitness, the gym has become very important in the lives of many people because it helps them to have better physical health. Still, the emergence of a fitness culture especially through social media has presented new challenges that affect both body and mind.

According to Ajay Saha, who is a certified fitness trainer from the K11 School of Fitness and Science, constant exercise can significantly benefit one’s mental health. “Exercise helps release endorphins, which are natural mood lifters for our bodies and this reduces stress, anxiety as well as depression,” says Saha. Most other people who frequent gyms also report being more excited or even more courageous after they have kept exercising regularly. However, such may be overridden by their obsession with their fitness goals resulting in stress and anxiety especially if the results do not come overnight.

Social media has intensified the problem. Instagram and YouTube shorts among other platforms contain pictures of perfect bodies and difficult workout routines sometimes posted by these same individuals. They can motivate but then again set impossible standards with their posts.“They compare themselves to influencers or celebrities they see online which creates unrealistic expectations and erodes self-esteem”, he adds.

Comparing things always is bad since it might make some feel unhappy despite their progress. The obsession with obtaining a “perfect” body as it is often portrayed online can cause psychological problems such as anxiety and body dysmorphic disorders. Saha argues that fitness should be about feeling good, not just looking good, and recommends clients have realistic goals related to health.

Fitness trends becoming more dangerous are also a possibility. Fad diets and excessive exercise patterns offering instant results may result in fatigue, injuries, and mental burnout. “Rather than going after trendy things I always advocate for practical sustainable fitness routines,” says Saha.

To make gyms more friendly for people with mental health issues, Saha suggests these facilities host classes like yoga or meditation centred on mindfulness so that they can create a supportive community where members can help each other. Such an orientation towards life will help in creating awareness of healthy living instead of competing, making the gym an ideal place for both mind and body flourishing.