I've been thinking a lot about the way society views fitness, and how it's become this all-consuming thing that people feel like they need to be a part of. And for some, it's genuinely a positive force in their lives - I've met people who genuinely love going to the gym and it's a huge part of their routine.

But then there are those of us who, for whatever reason, can't quite get into it. I've always been one of those people who prefers just going for a walk or doing some yoga at home - anything that doesn't involve a ton of equipment or judgmental stares in a crowded gym.

The Gym as a Hierarchy

I was thinking about this the other day when I was listening to Arlo Parks' song 'Fitness'. For those who don't know, it's a track that explores the darker side of fitness culture and the pressure people put on themselves to conform. I think that's really what resonated with me - the way that fitness can be this seemingly innocuous thing, but actually it's this whole world of obsession and comparison.

Arlo Parks is basically saying that the gym is this hierarchical space where people are constantly trying to one-up each other, and it's a real shame. Because for people who don't feel like they fit in, or who just aren't into that kind of thing, it can be a really alienating experience.

Let's face it, the fitness industry has gotten out of hand. Everywhere you look, there are ads for the latest gym membership deals, Instagram influencers promoting the latest weight loss trends, and social media posts filled with before-and-after photos that make you wonder if it's all just a facade.

The Dark Side of Gym Culture

I've been to my fair share of gyms, and let me tell you, it's not all sweat and tears. There's a darker side to gym culture that we rarely talk about. The constant pressure to look a certain way, the fear of being judged by others, the anxiety of not being able to keep up with the latest fitness trends... it's a recipe for disaster.

And don't even get me started on the so-called "gym rats" who spend hours on end in the gym, pumping iron and taking selfies. Newsflash: just because you're in the gym all the time doesn't mean you're actually healthy. In fact, it's often a sign of an unhealthy obsession with the very thing that's supposed to be making you well.

The Problem with Unrealistic Expectations

We're constantly bombarded with images of models and celebrities who look like they've been Photoshopped into perfection. And we can't help but feel like we're not measuring up. But the truth is, these images are often Photoshopped, and the people in them have a whole team of trainers and nutritionists working for them.

And yet, we still try to emulate their bodies, often at the expense of our own mental and physical health. We deprive ourselves of food, we push ourselves to the point of exhaustion, and we beat ourselves up over every little imperfection. It's a toxic cycle, and it's time to break free from it.

So what's the solution? For starters, let's stop comparing ourselves to others. Let's focus on our own fitness journeys, and celebrate the small victories along the way. And let's not forget to take care of our mental health – after all, a healthy mind is just as important as a healthy body.

The Rise of Fitness: Gym

With the rise of social media, it's easier than ever to find a fitness community that suits your style. From online fitness classes to in-person workout groups, there's no shortage of options out there.

• Find a gym or fitness studio that makes you feel comfortable and supported.
• Don't be afraid to try new things – you might be surprised at how much you enjoy a particular workout style.
• And most importantly, remember that fitness is a journey, not a destination.

Final Thoughts

As I said, the fitness industry has gotten out of hand. But it's not all doom and gloom. By being aware of the dark side of gym culture, we can take steps to avoid it and focus on our own health and wellness. So let's take a deep breath, let go of the pressure to be perfect, and find our own unique path to fitness and happiness.