In an age where social media reigns supreme, influencers hold significant power over their audiences.
However, with great power comes great responsibility.
A recent incident involving a fitness influencer and an unsuspecting gym-goer serves as a cautionary tale of how not to use this influence.
A Misguided Comparison
A fitness influencer recently shared a video in which she compared herself, “on supercoffee,” with an overweight woman using the step-up machine, tagging the woman as “not on supercoffee.”
The implication was clear: the influencer, in peak shape and performing with greater speed, appeared to suggest her superiority due to her fitness level and, by extension, her choice of drink.
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Joey Swoll’s Powerful Response
Joey Swoll, a respected figure in the fitness community, did not hesitate to call out this behavior.
He sharply criticized the influencer’s decision to shame the woman for her workout pace and use her as a tool to promote a product.
Joey reminded her of the very essence of fitness – it’s not about comparing oneself to others but about individual journeys of self-betterment.
He further noted that everyone has their challenges.
Using his own example of a bad knee, he highlighted that fitness is relative. The woman in the video might very well have her struggles, but her commitment to working out deserves respect and admiration, not ridicule.
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The Larger Issue at Play
The incident underscores a broader issue in the age of influencers: the exploitation of others for personal gain.
It’s a stark reminder of the potential harm influencers can inflict when they misuse their platform, especially in a sensitive space like the gym where many are working hard to overcome personal challenges.
In Conclusion
This situation reminds us of the essential ethics of human interaction: kindness, respect, and understanding.
Joey Swoll’s rebuke serves as a reminder that no matter our status or influence, we must always strive to uplift others, not tear them down.
Everyone’s fitness journey is unique, and every step taken, no matter the pace, deserves applause, not derision.
