Toxic training Students experience popularization gym culture Malak Samara
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oing to the gym can promote many improvements, such as losing weight and improving mental health. However, toxic gym culture has recently become a prominent problem and prevents participants from acquiring many of the benefits. A main part of gym culture is occasionally comparing yourself, or others, to unrealistic body and physical standards. According to a study conducted by Cambridge, gym motivation includes body shaming and dismissing other forms of exercise. “Don’t worry about what other people are lifting,” senior Michael Schnurr, who is a sprinter, said. “It’s not about how much you lift in total, it’s about what you can do and get yourself better.” Gym culture can also have its gains and disadvantages. Ensuring health and safety should be the top priority, according to Cambridge. Otherwise, exercising will not end up helping at all, and it will worsen mental health. “The most important part of going to the gym is self-care,’’
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JV soccer coach and health psychologist Allison Rodgers said. “I view my exercise routine as a gift I can give myself to improve my health and celebrate what my body can do.” Recently, gym culture has been popularized. This is mostly due to the fact that people had time to kill during quarantine and saw it as an opportunity to improve their physical and mental health. “I think there’s been a cultural shift toward recognizing different forms of beauty,” Rodgers said. “For example, it’s become more socially acceptable for women to have strong bodies.” According to a review published in the Journal of Sport and Health Science, going to the gym can improve the immune system. Exercising for an hour can enhance immune cells that helps defend the body against pathogens. “Physical activity is important for our bodies and minds,” Rodgers said. “Physical activity can improve cardiovascular health, flexibility, range of motion, agility, strength, endurance and athletic functionality.” The International Health, Racquet and Sportsclub Association (IHRSA) states that going to the gym can provide social support and a sense of
December 2021
