In the age of social media, anyone has the ability to post their “ideal” fitness routine for thousands of followers to view. Influencers from around the world share their health and fitness journey, hoping to inspire their audience and sell their story. For months I found myself trying different routines I found on Instagram but none suited me very well. I became frustrated thinking it was my fault I couldn’t figure out how to do everything right. But I realized this was not a problem with me. There are many fallacies associated with this new virtual fitness fad that I think are important to uncover.
Everyone is Different
This may sound cliché, but it’s repeated for a reason. No one has the same body. We all metabolize food at different speeds and burn calories in different ways. When influencers show us their most effective workout routine, they are really just publicly documenting what works for them. It is important to realize that this program may not work for you, and that’s completely ok. Dip your toes into different types of exercise to figure out what your body needs to thrive!
Different Types of Exercise Do Different Things
I often fall into the trap of focusing too heavily on one type of exercise while ignoring others. Social media influencers like to rely on one “brand” of workouts to showcase on their page. However, a combination of different types of exercises based on individual needs should be prioritized. For instance, if you are looking for a mix of cardio and strengthening try a cycling class. But if you don’t need cardio in your everyday routine, don’t force it. Pilates and yoga are great alternatives and provide an array of movements that tone your muscles. It is so easy to believe that cardio is the only way to stay healthy when in fact, sometimes it can do more harm than good. Before you finalize your workout routine, make sure you have tried multiple options because you never know which one will be most beneficial.
Below I have listed different types of exercises and where you can find them in the LA area!
- Pilates – The Studio MDR
- Barre – Pure Barre, Barre3
- Yoga – Modo Yoga, YogaWorks
- Functional Training – F45 (also available for free at LMU through the Burns Rec Center)
- Cardio/Strength Training – Orangetheory, Barry’s Bootcamp
- Cycling – SoulCycle
Be sure to inquire at each studio because most offer student discounts or free first-time classes!
Food Preparation is Complicated
The problem with food preparation is very similar to copying a workout routine: everyone is different! We all have different preferences and restrictions in our everyday diet. With that being said, it is important to understand that eating a “healthy” diet does not mean restricting the amount you eat or when you eat. Today’s most popular meal plans/diets heavily restrict what time of the day people can eat and what foods must be eaten together. The idea that we limit ourselves in order to model our peers has cultivated into a new disorder called Orthorexia Nervosa, the obsession with “clean” eating (NEDA). While this is not as common as anorexia or bulimia, it is a problem that should still be addressed. Eat what makes you happy without worrying about how other’s may react. It is more important to follow your body day to day than a computer-generated meal tracker that does not know the ins and outs of your body.
It’s Hard to Stay Motivated
Social media is selective; users only post the best or most interesting parts of their lives. It may seem like motivation is a never-ending supply and the ability to get up each morning and complete a workout routine is easy, but I promise it’s only a facade. Staying motivated to workout is probably the hardest part of the whole process! Don’t beat yourself up if you lose motivation. Give your body time to rest and recover from any workout you have done. When you feel ready, not when social media tells you, find the workout that is best suited for you!