So, it turns out that those fitness DVDs you’ve been collecting may actually be doing you more harm than good. According to a recent study in the Sociology of Sport Journal, these DVDs are actually demotivating and here’s why:
· These bodies are NOT realistic with a home workout. The instructors and their little helpers behind them are not getting these super slim/sleek bodies at home and comparing ourselves to them is just not motivating!
· Most of the DVDs out there are based on making your body aesthetically pleasing rather than actually promoting fitness. Now, considering that it takes TIME to build muscle, lose fat, and see changes in our bodies, putting the emphasis on aesthetics can wreak havoc on staying motivated!
· Along these same lines, there is a HUGE lack of diversity in these DVDs. Everyone in these videos has the perfect body with ripped abs and perfect smile and they are usually dressed in the skimpiest clothing possible. Let’s face it, the rest of us workout in old sweatpants and no make-up! This again is reinforcing an idea that is just NOT realistic
· Motivational statements that aren’t motivating at all! Statements like “you better be sweating” or “you should be feeling it” are supposed to motivating; however, research shows us that these statements actually make the user feel inadequate and can make it easier to put the DVD away and never look at it again!
So what’s the bottom line? Getting into shape takes hard work and determination and it can be difficult to find the perfect routine for you. Let your workout routine reflect you and your personal goals. Don’t let some unknown person on a DVD dictate your expectations and body goals.
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