It has happened again…

A social media influencer has put out a contentious post to gain clicks and to start debate, which in turn builds the algorithm and apparently leads to even more clicks, etc. in a supposed cycle of virtuousness for the poster. There is very often a financial incentive for the influencer to get x number of clicks.  Trouble is, while those in the know might waste their time arguing with the influencer, others will take what has been posted as the gospel truth and start acting upon it, possibly to the detriment of their own health.

As you can imagine, the world of health and fitness is littered with examples of such behaviour. Some recent examples I have seen (and almost thrown my phone across the room because of) include:

• Sprints are a better way to lose fat and build muscle than hill climbs on a treadmill

• Hex-bar deadlifts are a complete waste of time for anyone over the age of 50

• Listing things that people might be struggling with in everyday life (sleep, nutrition, strength training) as “sins” that need repenting 

Yep, you read that last one right. Seriously?! What the actual [insert swear word here]?

The first two are laughable as, despite being just outright wrong, they lack any nuance about where people are in their health and fitness lives, injury status, and so much more that any coach worth their salt would be aware of.

🤓Buyer Beware!

Please, please, please take everything you see on social media with a grain of salt. Question the veracity of things. In short, the Latin phrase of Caveat Emptor, or buyer beware comes into play here. 

Injury would more than likely ensue if you followed the advice of the said influencers. Either that, or you might miss out on the best exercises that your body is more suited to. And as for repenting of “sins” when life, work, family are getting in the way of you having that unicorn sanctuary of a ‘perfect’ workout… Do not get me started! 🤬

🔎 Give Yourself a Break

I get it. The flashy smile, well-honed, tanned, youthful body and persuasive speak of the influencer can be the effective lure it is designed to precisely be. And you might have been caught on that hook occasionally. So long as you have extricated yourself from that hook, and are now looking for a sensible way forward, all will be well with the world.

So give yourself a break. Just remember the sage words of Teddy Roosevelt, uttered in 1907, about not believing everything you read on social media. (I saw it on the internet, so he must have said it!)

And maybe look for a voice of reason in the crazy world of health and fitness. If you would like a no-nonsense chat about how you could be fitter, stronger and healthier, please do get in touch. I would love to help you achieve your fitness goals, whatever they may be.