Is a lot of working out and “gym culture” actually body dysmorphia?

[Michael Way]

Originally Posted by oh-eve

I agree to this statement. I get body/joint pains if I don't work out regularly. It hurts getting out of bed. Walking stairs gets me out of breath. I get back pain and would need surgery if I don't work out my back well enough.

Some people meditate or go to church - I unwind at the gym, I am in my mental zone and do my thing, I sometimes don't even notice people around me. Additionally I do MMA - it works out the areas that are untouched by just lifting weights. I am taking a break right now and feel the difference, I don't feel as fit/energetic and need to go back soon. I like looking strong even though I am not very strong.

Working out regularly and eating right is a lifestyle or if you say - like brushing teeth. It is just part of you and your routine.

Agreed!

[ocnjgirl]

Originally Posted by GoAmericaGo

Just thought this would be an interesting discussion. It’s a topic I don’t see discussed much and I know it can offend many of those who are passionate of their “fitness”.

When you think about it, how much strength and endurance does the average person need to be considered healthy?

What about when people start revolving a large part of their life around honing in that “better” physique? To the point of making massive changes to their diets, being on a very regimented gym routine, taking supplements, sometimes steroids, worrying about protein, getting the perfect body fat percentage, tracking every bite of food, watching videos/reading about how to workout better etc.

Is there some sort of body dysmorphia or narcissism that is the basis for much of the fitness world we see today?

I really don't think so. I think in the cases you talk about, it could almost be considered a sport (and there are competitions, that's how Arnold S first came to fame). I think like an athlete's quest for perfection in their sport, it is similar.