The Pulse Why We Love and Hate Exercising — And How to Do It Either Way
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Dec 29, 2023 This podcast explores the history of fitness and its impact on our health, as well as our struggle to motivate ourselves to exercise. It delves into the effects of exercise on the brain, including reducing anxiety and improving mood. The podcast also discusses the link between physical inactivity and dementia risk, as well as the negative impact of sitting on our health. Finally, it offers alternative ways to stay active throughout the day and incorporates movement into our routines.
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Sandow: A 19th-Century Sideshow Act
- Historian Natalia Melman-Petrazellla describes 19th-century strongman Eugene Sandow.
- He was a sideshow act, showcasing his physique like a "bearded lady" or "fattest man", not a fitness inspiration.
Fitness as a Patriotic Duty
- The view of fitness shifted from a sideshow act to a patriotic duty in the early 20th century.
- Government initiatives like the Civilian Conservation Corps promoted fitness as national service, especially during the Cold War.
The Rise of Exercise Culture
- The rise of desk jobs and increased food access contributed to a changing view of attractive bodies.
- The ability to resist overindulgence became a marker of discipline, leading to the emergence of exercise entrepreneurs.