Workout videos could be psychologically harmful for users, researchers warn
POSTED 13 Jan 2016 . BY Jak Phillips
Researchers have warned that many fitness DVDs contain negative imagery and demotivating language Credit: Shutterstock.com / Monkey Business Images
Often the catalyst for a well-intentioned new year health kick, the millions of fitness DVDs found in stockings around the world over Christmas may actually be causing considerable psychological harm to viewers.
That’s according to researchers at Oregon State University, who have warned that many fitness DVDs contain negative imagery and demotivating language.
Their study of 10 popular commercial exercise DVDs – published in the latest issue of the Sociology of Sport Journal – found that the imagery in the fitness videos may be perpetuating and reinforcing hyper-sexualised and unrealistic body images.
In addition, researchers found that one in every seven motivational statements on the DVDs was actually a demotivating statement that could reduce the effectiveness of the workout, diminish the user’s hope and potentially cause psychological harm.
“These findings raise concerns about the value of exercise DVDs in helping people develop and commit to a workout programme,” said Brad Cardinal, a kinesiology professor in the College of Public Health and Human Sciences at Oregon State University.
“There are a lot of exaggerated claims through the imagery and language of ‘do this and you’ll look like me'.”
The study found that most of the instructors and models were slim, female and white, and they typically wore revealing attire. According to Cardinal, this sends a subtle message about what people who are fit should look like and emphasises physical appearance as opposed to improved health.
Another finding was that 25 per cent of the language used by instructors was motivational, but one of every seven motivational statements could be considered negative. Such statements included phrases such as “say hello to your sexy six-pack,” “you better be sweating,” and “you should be dying right now.”
Cardinal said those types of phrases are dangerous as they focus on outcomes, encourage social comparison, and don’t take into account individual differences in health or fitness. He added that “tough love” phrases and strategies can also have a harmful effect because they can lead to injuries or other adverse health outcomes.
“Buyers should beware when making these purchases,” warned Cardinal, who said many of the instructors appear to have little or no credentials in fitness instruction.
“There are also questions about some of the exercises, which could lead to injuries and pose a real danger to the user.”
It’s been five years since the fitness industry reopened after the last lockdown – long enough
to look back on the impact the pandemic had on the sector and what might come next.
Wattbike has announced a new integration with EGYM, which enables the bikes to contribute to
the Cardio BioAge score of individuals via a VO2 max result.
Les Mills has launched a reformer Pilates workout. The 45-minute workout blends traditional
reformer movements and more contemporary exercises, choreographed to music.
Panatta brought together four of the most influential figures in bodybuilding history on the
stage of RiminiWellness 2026: Phil Heath, Lee Haney, Ronnie Coleman and Hany Rambod. [more...]
Workout videos could be psychologically harmful for users, researchers warn
POSTED 13 Jan 2016 . BY Jak Phillips
Researchers have warned that many fitness DVDs contain negative imagery and demotivating language Credit: Shutterstock.com / Monkey Business Images
Often the catalyst for a well-intentioned new year health kick, the millions of fitness DVDs found in stockings around the world over Christmas may actually be causing considerable psychological harm to viewers.
That’s according to researchers at Oregon State University, who have warned that many fitness DVDs contain negative imagery and demotivating language.
Their study of 10 popular commercial exercise DVDs – published in the latest issue of the Sociology of Sport Journal – found that the imagery in the fitness videos may be perpetuating and reinforcing hyper-sexualised and unrealistic body images.
In addition, researchers found that one in every seven motivational statements on the DVDs was actually a demotivating statement that could reduce the effectiveness of the workout, diminish the user’s hope and potentially cause psychological harm.
“These findings raise concerns about the value of exercise DVDs in helping people develop and commit to a workout programme,” said Brad Cardinal, a kinesiology professor in the College of Public Health and Human Sciences at Oregon State University.
“There are a lot of exaggerated claims through the imagery and language of ‘do this and you’ll look like me'.”
The study found that most of the instructors and models were slim, female and white, and they typically wore revealing attire. According to Cardinal, this sends a subtle message about what people who are fit should look like and emphasises physical appearance as opposed to improved health.
Another finding was that 25 per cent of the language used by instructors was motivational, but one of every seven motivational statements could be considered negative. Such statements included phrases such as “say hello to your sexy six-pack,” “you better be sweating,” and “you should be dying right now.”
Cardinal said those types of phrases are dangerous as they focus on outcomes, encourage social comparison, and don’t take into account individual differences in health or fitness. He added that “tough love” phrases and strategies can also have a harmful effect because they can lead to injuries or other adverse health outcomes.
“Buyers should beware when making these purchases,” warned Cardinal, who said many of the instructors appear to have little or no credentials in fitness instruction.
“There are also questions about some of the exercises, which could lead to injuries and pose a real danger to the user.”
It’s been five years since the fitness industry reopened after the last lockdown – long enough
to look back on the impact the pandemic had on the sector and what might come next.
Wattbike has announced a new integration with EGYM, which enables the bikes to contribute to
the Cardio BioAge score of individuals via a VO2 max result.
Les Mills has launched a reformer Pilates workout. The 45-minute workout blends traditional
reformer movements and more contemporary exercises, choreographed to music.
According to research which tracked more than 147,000 people for 30 years, 90-120 minutes
of strength training a week may deliver some of the biggest long-term health rewards.
Panatta brought together four of the most influential figures in bodybuilding history on the
stage of RiminiWellness 2026: Phil Heath, Lee Haney, Ronnie Coleman and Hany Rambod. [more...]
