

Is fitness the ultimate flex?
Jun 5, 2025
Cat Zhang, a culture writer at the Cut, dives into the world of fitness as a luxury industry. She discusses how the pandemic turned fitness into a performance, echoing privilege and competitiveness. The conversation spans tech's role in shaping fitness obsessions, the psychological toll of societal standards, and the rising costs of gym memberships. Zhang critiques the hyper-competitive health trends fueled by social media while championing inclusivity and community wellness. It’s a captivating exploration of how we perceive health in today’s society.
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Extreme Fitness and Privilege
- Fitness culture today is more extreme, technology-driven, and aesthetic-focused than past trends.
- Tracking health data consumes cognitive space and highlights privilege in being able to optimize health.
Limits of Fitness Data Tracking
- Hyper-focus on fitness data can create anxiety without actionable solutions.
- Improving sleep or health scores often depends on privileges beyond individual control.
Risks of Health Data
- Consumer health data collected by devices is often insecure and can be misused.
- Data can be used for surveillance and punitive actions like deportations.