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Daybreak

Cult turned amateur gym rats into fitness fanatics. Now they are paying in injuries

Apr 3, 2025
DVLS Pranathi, a dedicated reporter from The Ken, sheds light on the alarming rise of workout-related injuries linked to the popular fitness platform Cult.fit. With the surge in gym-goers post-COVID, many in their mid-30s to 40s are suffering injuries from improper techniques. Pranathi discusses the aggressive marketing strategies of fitness studios and the troubling trainer-to-student ratios. She prompts listeners to reflect on responsibility for injury prevention and the implications of a cult-like approach to fitness training.
12:53

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Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • CultFit's accessibility has attracted many beginners to fitness classes, yet this influx has significantly increased workout-related injuries among participants, especially those aged 35-45.
  • The group class model at CultFit limits personalized training due to large class sizes and a focus on trainer appearance, compromising safety and exercise understanding.

Deep dives

The Rise of CultFit and Its Accessibility

CultFit has revolutionized the fitness industry by making workouts easily accessible to a broad audience. The business model allows individuals to sign up for various budget-friendly classes through a simple app, attracting many newcomers to fitness. However, this accessibility has led to a surge in injuries among participants, as many beginners are not equipped with the necessary knowledge about proper exercise techniques. The company’s rapid growth has been driven by its focus on customer acquisition and strategic pricing, but the associated rise in injuries poses significant challenges for its reputation and customer safety.

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