In Coach House Fitness’ last contribution to Oswestry Life Magazine (Issue 109, May 2026), my colleague Liam spoke about what a “gym-goer” looks like and why diversity in a gym is so important. He mentioned overhearing someone say, “He doesn’t even look like he goes to the gym.” That comment stayed with me. It made me think about where these attitudes come from and the impact they can have.
It’s difficult to ignore the role social media has played. Alongside the rise of online platforms has come a growing “fitness influencing culture”. What started as people sharing their training for fun quickly became something far more commercial. Fitness became marketing, and with thousands competing for attention, advice began flooding our feeds from every angle, and not always from qualified or trustworthy sources.
So how do people stand out online amongst the thousands? Usually not by showing average results, but by presenting a polished version of reality. Lighting, angles, filters, editing and timing (whether it’s dehydration or training for a “pump”) all shape how physiques are displayed online. What we often see is not everyday progress, but a carefully selected highlight reel.
When this becomes our idea of what a “gym-goer” should look like, expectations can become distorted. Real progress, such as improved strength, energy, confidence and overall health, can start to feel underwhelming, despite being genuinely life changing.
This isn’t to say social media is entirely negative. It has helped increase awareness of fitness and contributed to rising gym participation across the UK. But it’s important to recognise the difference between online presentation and reality.
If you want sustainable, supported progress, my advice is simple: speak to a qualified professional who can help you set realistic goals and celebrate genuine achievements along the way. At Coach House Fitness, every new member is offered a one-to-one consultation and a bespoke training programme tailored to their needs. Visit coachhousefitness.net to find out more.
If you’d like to learn more about Coach House Fitness, visit www.coachhousefitness.net
Callum, PT & Fitness Instructor.
