I think that it’s time we stop associating six-packs with superiority. There’s no question that it takes hard work, discipline, and dedication to get to that point. But the idea that a certain level of physical fitness makes your opinion in society more valid must end. This is another side effect of the pervasiveness of diet culture. It doesn’t matter how advanced or evolved you are in any area of humanity. If you aren’t specifically physically fit, you are liable to have your opinions and points invalidated.
I think I’ve established my advocacy for physical fitness. I love to exercise, and I admire those who maintain peak levels of athleticism. That being said, I do not assume those who hold these levels have opinions superior to those who do not. I think it’s upsetting that we have begun to equate body fat percentage with IQ points. It seems like any advice on social media or the internet regarding diet, exercise, or health is only taken seriously if the person delivering it is fit. Regardless of their credentials.
It takes hard work and dedication to become fit. Shredded physique and athletic performance are absolutely admirable qualities. But they do not make those who possess those qualities more valuable members of society. Especially not over anyone who does not have these features or qualities. You’re not better than anyone if you’re skinny. People put so much stock in how much they weigh or the things that they eat. I say this as someone who falls into that trap app of the time. Somehow dietary restrictions and strenuous exercise have become synonymous with intelligence, moral character, and overall societal value.
I don’t want to discredit anyone. If you can self-motivate with exercise, you can probably do so with most other things. People in this position often begin to see their situation and wonder why others can’t follow suit. It then becomes an issue of “if I can do it, you can do it,” and anyone who doesn’t is lazy or inferior. This begins the equation of moral superiority. If someone doesn’t “grind” as hard as you, they aren’t worthy of your time or respect.
We see people who are fit and assume they know what they are talking about. As a society, we have agreed that skinny means healthy. This does so much damage because it allows people who may have no expertise or qualifications to dole out advice. When all they have to reference is their own experience. This creates issues because no one questions them. People prioritize physical health over mental well-being. They ignore their personal needs and potentially harm themselves. But overall, we all lose as a society because it continues a damaging narrative in which no one can simply be comfortable with themselves.
Just remember in all of this, your journey is your journey. You have no right to sum up or assume a person’s character based on appearance. It is a poor and weak assessment that drives us apart. And it disregards and deprioritizes other essential aspects of our health that we should be paying attention to. I know larger people who suck and skinny people who suck. It has nothing to do with their body type. Better yourself in the way you see fit. Be proud of what you are doing. But don’t superimpose your insecurities.
And most importantly, push back on the idea that you are inferior or need to fix yourself if you feel comfortable. Only you and those who know you can make that call. Thanks for reading.
