As part of November, the male mental health awareness month, Katie and special guest Ralph shed some light on an extremely important question - is the gym destructive for male body image?
A very interesting conversation unfolds, and various sub-topics are explored. There is a large focus on the societal pressures both men and women face in regard to the ‘ideal body type’ with personal anecdotes and research being shared.
Furthermore, a highly interesting subject is raised regarding the body positivity movement and its lack of inclusion within the male population. Within this, the discourse (or lack thereof) between males on bad body image is considered too; and most importantly, Katie and Ralph settle on whether or not 'gym pics' are appropriate for modern dating app profiles (spoiler: the answer is no).
Disclaimer: The hosts, nor our special guest, are not licensed psychologists. This episode and show simply explore their viewpoints backed up by their own experiences and research where applicable.
Topics Covered in Episode:
[02:10] Face value thoughts – Ralph & Katie
[03:48] Gyms being marketed to our insecurities
[04:13] Defining male body image
[04:55] Male body image throughout the ages
[05:30] Biases towards certain male body types
[07:25] Pressure on adolescent boys to work out
[08:50] Pressure to conform to certain body types for sport performance
[10:40] Hindsight and redefining a ‘normal’ male body
[11:30] Are unhealthy gym tendencies as easily recognised in males?
[12:50] Lack of voices for male body positivity
[15:30] Would men even benefit from body positive advocates?
[17:30] Negative male mental health in relation to body image
[19:10] How do men talk to men about their body image?
[22:35] Why the gym can be construed as damaging to body image
[24:25] The gym and positive mental health
[25:00] Is the gym necessary for performance?
[26:40] Are men actually obsessed with the gym?
[28:40] Is there an underlying social pressure for men to be muscular?
[31:10] The muscular aesthetic and modern dating
[34:12] Dangerous lengths males go to for muscle building
[35:18] Round-up & conclusion
Resources mentioned in episode:
[17:30] Male mental health and body image
Mental Health Foundation (2019)
[26:40] Gym membership prevalence in the UK
MindBody Report (2020) https://www.mindbodyonline.com/sites/default/files/public/education/learning-assets/fitness_trends-UK-report.pdf
Resources for Help (UK only):
Mind Info Line – 03001233393 (Mon-Fri: 09:00-18:00)
Types of mental health problems; where to get help; medication and alternative treatment advice.
Samaritans – 116123 (24/7)
Helpline providing round-the-clock emotional support.
Crisis Text Line – Text ‘SHOUT’ to 85258
Support given for a range of urgent issues such as suicidal thoughts; self-harm; bullying; relationship difficulties.
CALM – 0800585858 (17:00-00:00: 365 days/year)
National helpline for men to discuss any emotional troubles they are facing.
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Thanks for listening!