Fitness
TikTok fitness content may cause body image issues, study says
“Fitspiration” content on TikTok reinforces harmful body ideals, spreads health misinformation, and contributes to the oversexualization of women, according to a recent Australian study.
The study defined fitspiration content as “images and videos that aim to inspire individuals to live an active and healthy lifestyle through diet and exercise.”
Scientists at Flinders University expressed concerns that it could contribute towards body dissatisfaction, excessive dieting and the glorification of eating disorders among TikTok’s largely teenage user-base.
“Our study highlights concern about the triggering and misleading information portrayed by unqualified influencers and that we need far greater scrutiny of the TikTok fitness community,” said lead author Samantha Pryde in a statement.
“TikTok fitspiration videos often promote an idealized view of body types and there is concern that this is causing negative body image issues especially in young women.”
Scientists at Flinders University analyzed 200 TikTok fitspiration videos using popular hashtags such as fitness, fitspo, gymtok and fittok.
The vast majority were posted by fitness influencers without relevant qualifications, and as many as 60 percent were found to contain incorrect or harmful information related to diet, health and fitness, the study found.
NeonShot/Getty Images
“Worryingly, we found that the vast majority of influencers behind the content lacked credible health and fitness qualifications, underscoring a pervasive issue where influencer popularity overshadows the accuracy and safety of the information they provide,” said social scientist Professor Eva Kemps, a co-author of the study, in a statement.
Associate professor Ivanka Prichard, also a co-author and an expert in body image, exercise and health psychology, added: “Our study illustrates the need for more research and enhanced regulation regarding advertising by influencers on social media.
“We need more collaboration with public-health organizations, so that fitness influencers are encouraged to share evidence-based information that promotes healthy, realistic expectations for body image and fitness.”
The team discovered that more than half—55.7 percent—of the content they analyzed featuring women involved sexualization or objectification, while 20 percent involved body shaming and 8.6 percent promoted disordered eating behaviors.
“Alarmingly, we found that the majority of the videos perpetuated negative messages, including sexualization, body shaming and excessive dieting,” said Pryde.
Fitspiration content featured solely women more than solely men—78 and 10 percent of the videos respectively—and content featuring women promoted appearance-related reasons for exercise more frequently than videos featuring men.
The scientists found that women’s body parts were more often objectified too, especially the thighs and buttocks, and that the ideal female body type tended to be thin and fit.
“TikTok fitspiration videos often promote an idealized view of body types and there is concern that this is causing negative body image issues especially in young women,” said Pryde.
“The content typically showcased and promoted an ideal ‘thin’ body type, indicating that thinness is still a key driver of body issues for women that can negatively impact their physical and mental health.”
However, men were objectified in these videos as well, likely to be portrayed as muscled. Videos of men tended to feature bodies with obscured, blurred or cropped-out faces, and featured groups of men—whereas women were more likely to be featured solo.
“This evolving objectification raises concerns about the impact of fitspiration on male body image as well, with increasing evidence suggesting that male viewers are similarly affected by idealized imagery,” said Kemps
The study authors said that this likely reflected gendered workout habits, with the gym seen as a social, competitive space among men, and exercise a solo endeavor for women.
“In a world increasingly influenced by digital media, monitoring the impact of fitspiration content remains crucial in promoting and protecting healthier body image narratives, and fostering supportive fitness cultures,” said Prichard.
Do you have a tip on an exercise or fitness story that Newsweek should be covering? Is there a health concern that’s worrying you? Let us know via science@newsweek.com. We can ask experts for advice, and your story could be featured in Newsweek.
Reference
Pryde, S., Kemps, E., & Prichard, I. (2024). “You started working out to get a flat stomach and a fat a$$”: A content analysis of fitspiration videos on TikTok. Body Image, 51. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.bodyim.2024.101769
Fitness
13 Strength-Training Moves That Taylor Swift Used to Prep for the ‘Eras Tour’
In “The End of an Era,” Taylor Swift gives fans a behind-the-scenes look at the workout routine that helped her prepare for her “Eras Tour.”
Episode 3 of the six-part Disney+ docuseries follows Swift as she hits the gym throughout the tour, which ran for nearly two years.
Since each show lasted over three hours, Swift enlisted the help of personal trainer Kirk Myers to help her focus on endurance so she could maintain her energy throughout each concert.
“There are a lot of things that we pulled off on this tour that I’ve never even attempted on past tours. I think the longest show I ever did before was 2 hours and 15 minutes,” she said during the episode. “I never would have believed you if you would have told me we would be doing a 3.5 hour show. Now, saying that is one thing. Doing that physically is another.”
In order to dance and sing for that long, the 36-year-old had to make certain lifestyle changes.
“I really had to up my game in terms of physical training,” she said.
While reflecting on her workout routine, Swift joked that it wasn’t for the faint of heart. “I’ve never worked out this much in my life. It’s horrible,” she added.
Here are just a few of the exercises Swift focused on as part of her “Eras Tour” workout routine.
She Prioritized Strength Training
Episode 3 of the docuseries shows Swift in the gym prioritizing strength training. She can be seen doing the following moves:
- Battle waves and wave slams
- Ski machine
- Resistance band-assisted pull-ups
- Medicine ball sit-up throws
- Overhead hammer slam
- Assisted reverse crunch
- Hanging knee raise
- Medicine ball slams
- Medicine ball Russian twists
- Reformer plank pikes
- Crossover crunch with ankle weights
- Medicine ball side throws
- Bosu ball squat and press
She Did Lots of Pull-Ups But Hated Them
Swift can be seen doing pull-ups assisted by a resistance band and revealed that she has a “strong dislike” for them.
“In no way do I ever apply this at any point in the show. I just want to flag that as I do every time I have to do pull-ups,” she quipped.
Swift’s personal trainer encouraged her and said she’s gotten “stronger” throughout the years while performing the exercise.
“It’s from all the pent up rage and resentment I have for them,” she joked.
She Started Training 6 Months Before the Tour Began
While reflecting on her workout routine, Swift said she started planning for the tour early on.
“Six months ahead of my first rehearsal, (I was) running on the treadmill every single day at the tempo of the songs that I was playing while singing them out loud,” she said. “You just don’t want them to see you panting.”
Swift previously spoke about her intense treadmill workout in an interview with Time.
“Every day I would run on the treadmill, singing the entire set list out loud,” she told Time. “Fast for fast songs, and a jog or a fast walk for slow songs.”
She Did a LOT of Cardio
Dancing and singing for over three hours is a killer workout, especially when you’re running around the stage all night long. In the docuseries, Swift noted that two of her songs are particularly difficult to perform.
“‘1989’ and ‘Reputation’ are very high cardio. Anything’s hard when you’re scaling a stage that goes the entire length of an NFL stadium,” she said. “I think I run like 8 miles in the show.”
Fitness
5 top-rated exercise bikes for home to stay active, burn calories, and boost fitness in 2026
We are inching towards the end of 2025, and it’s time for New Year fitness resolutions. Staying active during the year-end can be tough. Cold weather, holiday celebrations, and packed schedules often push workouts to the back, leaving many feeling sluggish or stressed. But you don’t have to wait for the new year to get moving. An exercise bike offers a simple, no-excuses solution, bringing effective workouts right into your home. It eliminates travel, weather, and time barriers, making it easy to stay consistent.
Beyond convenience, cycling is a low-impact exercise that improves cardiovascular health, boosts mood through the release of endorphins, and helps manage holiday weight without straining the joints. Even short, daily rides can maintain energy, strengthen the heart, and support overall wellness, helping you finish the year fitter, healthier, and more active.
Why choose an exercise bike?
Exercise bikes offer a low-impact cardio that works. Here are some key reasons why an exercise bike may be better than doing no exercise at all!
Joint-friendly cardio
A report by the Scandinavian Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine Supplement states that cycling delivers an effective cardiovascular workout without the high-impact stress on knees and joints that comes with running, making it ideal for year-round use.
Metabolic boost
Regular pedalling helps keep your metabolism active, supporting calorie burn even on lighter or rest days. Consistent cycling can help maintain an energy balance and assist in managing holiday weight gain.
Mental clarity
Beyond physical benefits, cycling serves as a form of active recovery. A short ride after a long day can help reduce stress, improve focus, and boost your mood, thanks to the release of endorphins and gentle movement that relaxes both your body and mind, reports Health Shots.
Helps you keep lifestyle diseases at bay
According to a study published in the journal PLOS Medicine, cycling can help prevent diseases like heart attacks, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes, which stem from living a sedentary lifestyle. If practised regularly, cycling can even help you manage or control pre-existing lifestyle diseases as well.
5 top-rated exercise bikes for home to stay active
If low-impact, joint-friendly workouts are your goal, HT Shop Now has shortlisted 5 exercise bikes for home based on user ratings, reviews, and overall feedback. Ideal for beginners or those returning to fitness, they support knee-friendly cardio, help maintain stamina, and make home workouts convenient and effective.
The Sparnod SAB-05 Air Bike Exercise Cycle is perfect for a full-body, low-impact workout at home. Its dual-action arms and legs provide simultaneous upper and lower body engagement, while adjustable resistance allows beginners and advanced users to tailor the intensity. Ideal for anyone looking to boost stamina, burn calories, or rehabilitate joints safely, the back support provides added comfort for longer sessions.
The PowerMax Fitness BU‑201 Dual Action Air Bike stands out with its adjustable cushioned seat and moving handles, making it comfortable and versatile for users of different heights. The dual action design engages both upper and lower body for a more effective workout. Non‑slip pedals ensure secure footing, while adjustable resistance lets you tailor intensity. Ideal for home workouts, it supports up to 120 kg and enhances overall cardiovascular fitness.
Looking for an exercise bike that keeps you motivated? The Lifelong Fit Pro Spin Fitness Bike features a clear LED display, a smooth 7 kg flywheel, and adjustable resistance, allowing for fully customizable cardio workouts. Its cushioned, adjustable seat and non-slip pedals ensure comfort and stability, while supporting up to 120 kg. Perfect for home workouts, it helps track progress, burn calories, and stay consistent with daily fitness goals.
Looking for a cardio machine that’s easy on your joints? The Reach AB 110 Upright Air Bike provides a smooth, low-impact workout with adjustable resistance and both moving and stationary handles, offering varied exercise options. Its cushioned seat adds comfort for longer sessions, and the design minimises knee and joint strain. Ideal for home gym cardio, it supports up to 110 kg and helps you stay active safely.
Many users love the Cardio Max JSB HF175 Exercise Cycle for its ease of use and versatility in home workouts. The dual-action design allows you to work both your upper and lower body, while adjustable height and resistance make it suitable for all fitness levels. Easy DIY installation means you can start exercising quickly. Its sturdy build and smooth motion help users enjoy low-impact cardio sessions without straining their joints.
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₹20,000 for effective home workouts”>Looking for a budget-friendly treadmill? Explore Amazon’s top-rated picks under ₹20,000 for effective home workouts
Home fitness made simple with Amazon’s highest-rated kettlebell options to support daily full-body workouts
- Why choose an exercise bike for home workouts?
They offer low-impact cardio, easy accessibility, and consistent daily activity without the need for a gym.
- Can exercise bikes help with weight management?
Yes. Regular cycling helps burn calories, boost metabolism, and support a healthy weight.
- Are these bikes suitable for beginners?
Absolutely. Adjustable resistance and seats make them beginner-friendly and customizable.
- Do exercise bikes strain joints?
No. Cycling is a low-impact activity that protects knees and joints while providing an effective workout.
Disclaimer: At Hindustan Times, we help you stay up-to-date with the latest trends and products. Hindustan Times has an affiliate partnership, so we may get a part of the revenue when you make a purchase. We shall not be liable for any claim under applicable laws, including but not limited to the Consumer Protection Act, 2019, concerning the products. The products listed in this article are in no particular order of priority.
Fitness
Holistic health, fitness goes to the dogs
U.S. Army Spc. Matthew C. Skalisky, patrol explosive detector dog handler, and Beza, a military working dog, both assigned to the 525th Military Working Dog Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade, complete an explosive detection training lane at Caserma Ederle, Vicenza, Italy, Nov. 6, 2025. The Canine Holistic Health and Fitness Program mirrors the Soldier H2F model, promoting total health and readiness for the Army’s canine teams. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Michael Westendorf)
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Back to U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa
VICENZA, Italy — For the handlers of the 525th Military Working Dog Detachment, readiness isn’t just about the mission, it’s about maintaining the total health of their most trusted partners. Through the U.S. Army’s new Canine Holistic Health and Fitness program, the Vicenza-based detachment is redefining what it means to be mission ready, one paw at a time.
The Army established the K9H2F program under Army Directive 2025-16 to enhance the wellness, performance and quality of life of MWDs, Aug. 21, 2025. The directive mandates all Army MWD units to implement comprehensive health and welfare standards, aligning with Department of War and Army veterinary care policies.
Modeled after the Soldier Holistic Health and Fitness system, K9H2F takes a science-based, whole-dog approach addressing physical fitness, nutrition, behavioral health and recovery. For the 525th MWD team, that means every dog receives the same level of conditioning and care as any elite military athlete in uniform.
“Our dogs are tactical athletes,” said U.S. Army Staff Sgt. Payton R. May, kennel noncommissioned officer in charge assigned to 525th MWD Detachment (Vicenza), 18th Military Police Brigade. “They train hard, they work hard and they deserve the same attention to fitness, nutrition and injury prevention that we give our Soldiers. The H2F program helps us keep them in top condition so they can perform safely and effectively in any environment.”
A key component of the directive, the Partner and Wellness program, ensures handlers and their assigned MWDs relocate together during permanent changes of station, strengthening continuity and the human-K9 bond.
“When I PCS’d [permanently changed duty stations] to Italy, being able to bring my dog with me made a huge difference,” said U.S. Army Spc. Matthew C. Skalisky, a patrol explosive detector dog handler assigned to the 525th MWD Detachment. “It helps us maintain that trust and teamwork that can’t be replaced. The PAW program makes sure that bond doesn’t get broken.”
Each MWD now follows structured conditioning routines designed to build strength, endurance and agility while reducing the risk of injury. Specialized diets, recovery protocols and enrichment activities round out their regimen, ensuring each dog remains physically capable and mentally resilient.
According to U.S. Army Sgt. Maj. Viridiana Lavalle, Military Working Dog program manager at Headquarters, Department of the Army, the initiative marks a major step forward in modern K9 care.
“Proactive and data-driven K9 care is essential for optimizing the performance and longevity of MWDs, directly impacting mission readiness and effectiveness,” Lavalle said. “By leveraging advanced analytics to monitor health metrics, exercise regimens and behavioral patterns, handlers can implement tailored care strategies that enhance the holistic health of MWDs.”
This strategic approach not only improves the physical capabilities of these vital assets but also supports K9 mental resilience, ensuring they are fully prepared for the demands of their critical roles.
“Ultimately, investing in comprehensive K9 care through data-driven insights enhances operational effectiveness, contributing to mission success and the overall safety of military personnel,” Lavalle said.
The holistic approach extends beyond the kennel. Handlers train alongside veterinary and behavioral specialists to better understand each dog’s unique needs, improving communication and enhancing mission effectiveness.
“The bond between handler and dog is everything,” May said. “When you have that trust, that connection, the dog performs with confidence. The H2F program helps us strengthen that bond through better training, stress management and recovery practices.”
From explosives and narcotics detection to patrol duties across Europe and Africa, the 525th’s military working dogs play a vital role in safeguarding Soldiers and installations. The K9H2F program ensures those capabilities remain sharp on every mission, in every environment.
“Investing in our dogs’ health is investing in readiness,” said U.S. Army Spc. Abigail M. Bentle, a patrol narcotics detector dog handler with the 525th MWD Detachment. “They’re not just assets, they’re teammates. When they’re healthy, confident and capable, our entire formation is stronger.”
Under the directive, the U.S. Army provost marshal general oversees program criteria and compliance, while the surgeon general of the U.S. Army coordinates implementation guidance. Commanders are required to meet new
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Military Working Dogs: Guardians of the Night
https://www.army.mil/article/56965/military_working_dogs_guardians_of_the_night
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https://www.war.gov/Multimedia/Experience/Four-Legged-Fighters/
Fort Buchanan K9 team certification: readiness in the making
https://www.usar.army.mil/News/News-Display/Article/3813932/fort-buchanan-k9-team-certification-readiness-in-the-making/
About SETAF-AF
U.S. Army Southern European Task Force, Africa (SETAF-AF) prepares Army forces, executes crisis response, enables strategic competition and strengthens partners to achieve U.S. Army Europe and Africa and U.S. Africa Command campaign objectives.
Follow SETAF-AF on: Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube, LinkedIn & DVIDSkennel and enrichment standards within 90 days, and the policy will be incorporated into Army Regulation 190–12 within two years.
For the Soldiers and K9s of the 525th MWD Detachment, holistic fitness isn’t just a program, it’s a commitment to excellence that keeps both handlers and their four-legged partners ready for any mission.
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