Opinion: From experts to influencers: the rise of fitness misinformation

Lemons. Chia seeds. Ginger. Drink it every morning, and your flat stomach is guaranteed. According to TikTok, at least.

Misinformation abounds on social media, especially regarding fitness and health. In recent years, social media has become the main source of news and information about almost anything and everything, especially for younger generations. While it can be beneficial for rapid dissemination of information, users tend to believe nearly everything they see, when some of the information may be false. It is no different when curious citizens seek advice on how to get fit, with many looking to lose weight.

Amid an era of “influencers,” people now seek to share their fitness-related wisdom. Many lose weight themselves and assert they are now credentialed enough to proclaim the title of a “fitness influencer.” Moreover, there are no requirements to begin posting nor oversight on who can share such information. Henceforth, these “fitness influencers” set up their cameras and paste on a wide smile while donning gym attire, and users are hooked. 

While certified experts aim to inform, many of these influencers prioritize the profit and engagement they receive. The most engaging content pushed out through the social media algorithms is rarely the most accurate. Additionally, many of these influencers partner with fitness brands and companies to advertise their products, leading to inauthentic and even false information shared only for earnings.

A study performed by Fortune Well, where a sample of over 480 fitness influencers were evaluated, less than 20% of them reported having any credentials. These self-proclaimed gurus promote unrealistic goals and perpetuate fitness myths that uninformed users follow blindly. Some even take it a step further, sharing meal plans and creating cookbooks while having no background in nutrition besides their personal experience.

On a smaller scale, even anonymous TikTok accounts are capable of spreading misinformation. These videos commonly capture viewers’ attention with captions like “Become unrecognizable in 30 days” while outlining unrealistic actions users can take. These are mostly targeted at younger generations, especially teens. These videos usually include steps like entirely cutting out any sugar, fats, and carbs or doing a set amount of a certain exercise each day. Doing 100 squats a day or drinking only juice won’t miraculously deliver results, but many believe it will.

The repercussions of this misinformation can manifest both physically and mentally.

Heeding incorrect information about exercise techniques, diet plans, health supplements, etc. can potentially lead to physical health problems or cause injury. Mentally, this content can promote unrealistic standards, body image issues, and unhealthy habits. Not to mention the wasted time, effort, and sometimes money when following ineffective advice.

If looking for fitness information, ensure it is from certified professionals and the source is scientifically backed and evidence-based. 

While looking to better your health is admirable and worth pursuing, this new era of fitness influencers has perhaps done more harm than good. Before absorbing any information from online sources, be vigilant about its credibility and be aware of the consequences and frequency of misinformation. The benefits of accurate fitness information are innumerable and each user has the power to forge their own fitness journey. We can all contribute to a healthier, more informed society, one that is rooted in facts, not fads.

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