Lately, I have been seeing more and more "fit" Facebook pages, Instagram accounts and so on. Rather than start up an entire blog, people are hitting social media to keep themselves accountable.
But, at what point does "accountability" cross into "obsession" or "fixation." Furthermore, when does support cross lines with fandom?
Personally, I already have those moments where I make a funny status...and no one likes it....and I'm left feeling a bit confused. As my dear friend would say, "I'm funny damnit. I'm freakin' funny!" (swap out the "freakin'" for another f-word for a direct quote)
So, if I were to truly make a "Future Fit-Kim" or "KimGetsFit-Amedro" page and register it as a "public figure" I can't imagine how deep the "rejection" could cut. My personal journey would become everyone's in so many characters or less. If it created a community of inspiration, then OF COURSE the public sharing would be worth it. Or, if I were truly honest with it...sharing my slip-ups as well as my triumphs, I understand the personal accountability factor. This would take true transparency though...and who is really "transparent" on Facebook? C'mon people what happens between your huge group hangouts and your European backpacking trip?! (And, yes, I'm guilty of putting my best "face" forward on Facebook) It's Facebook, take it for face value right?
But, if I'm seriously trying to get "likes"....that takes away the real meaning of "why" I took on this healthy-overhaul. It seems that whole "brand yourself" philosophy is driving more than just resume presentation.
Has becoming "healthy" or "fit" replaced the word "skinny" simply because it sounds less appearance based? (heck, it became an eating disorder called "orthorexia": trying to achieve the "perfect diet" or "clean eating regime.")
Sometimes, I see people getting so "into" these "fit" pages and I wonder if they realize the images they are looking at are just as much of a result of dedication as the models in the magazines. Yes, it is healthier. But, is it that much more realistic?
Now I love my workouts (see image above), and I congratulate anyone on making a fit page for true value: to inspire change or to keep themselves going. How amazing would it be to help not only yourself, but others? Then, your journey would be that much more important to complete--hence, an even deeper accountability.
It's just a matter of keeping the answer to that "why" question consistent and clear to yourself. Kudos to those brave enough to share!
I would seriously appreciate any comments from people who have successfully run a "fit" page! Leave a comment below and let me know if you are interested in being interviewed for a follow up post.