#517 The Most Overrated Trend in the Fitness Industry Today! [Trigger Warning]
Apr 3, 2025
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The host dissects Ashton Hall's viral morning routine, questioning its true impact on fitness. He argues that cold plunges and ice baths may be overrated, highlighting that one-size-fits-all solutions don't work for everyone. The discussion emphasizes authenticity among fitness influencers and urges listeners to focus on hard work over trendy rituals. New fitness programs are introduced, and the importance of practical nutrition is underscored, reinforcing that the fitness journey requires a balanced approach.
Ashton Hall's viral morning routine exemplifies the trend of influencers prioritizing visual appeal over substantial fitness qualifications and real expertise.
Cold plunges and ice baths are highlighted as overrated trends in fitness, often misrepresented as universal solutions despite individual variability in health needs.
Deep dives
The Rise of Ashton Hall and His Morning Routine
Ashton Hall has gained significant attention for his viral morning routine, which includes unconventional practices like dunking his face in ice water and rubbing a banana on his skin. His popularity surged from about a million followers to over eleven million in a short time, raising questions about whether his routine is genuinely life-changing or simply trendy. While he has created a unique persona in the fitness realm, critics argue that his qualifications as a fitness coach are questionable given his lack of extensive experience beyond a star-studded social media presence. This discussion highlights the ongoing issues within the fitness industry regarding the qualifications of influencers presenting themselves as coaches without formal evidence of their methods' effectiveness.
Concerns About Fitness Influencers
The trend of individuals like Ashton Hall, who may prioritize visual appeal and viral content over substantial fitness coaching credentials, poses a challenge for those seeking genuine guidance. Critics express frustration at the lack of barriers to entry in the coaching industry, where anyone can claim to be an expert simply by showcasing their physique. Instances of influencers promoting unrealistic or unsustainable routines detract from the importance of legitimate education, experience, and knowledge. The need for distinction between genuine fitness professionals and those leveraging their looks for social media fame emphasizes the need for standards in fitness coaching qualifications.
Individualized Morning Routines
Morning routines are highly personalized, with some individuals deriving significant benefits from structured rituals that promote productivity, such as hydration and movement. However, the adoption of a lengthy routine like Hall’s five-hour morning regimen can be counterproductive, especially for those whose schedules demand immediate action. Many people, especially parents or those in demanding jobs, may find time for elaborate routines impractical. General advice promotes the importance of simple practices that foster cognitive function and energy without requiring extensive time commitments, encouraging efficiency over spectacle.
The Overhype of Cold Plunges
Cold plunges and ice baths represent one of the most overrated trends in the fitness industry today, with widespread claims surrounding their purported benefits. While proponents advocate for their advantages, critics highlight that not everyone may benefit from ice exposure, particularly those with underlying health concerns like hypothyroidism. There's an ongoing confusion between genuine practices and social media fads that suggest ice baths are a universal cure-all, overshadowing other effective health strategies. It's essential to approach fitness trends with caution, recognizing that what works for one person may not be suitable for another, thereby promoting a more balanced perspective on health and wellness.
On this week's show Joe shares his [raw & unfiltered] thoughts on Ashton Hall's "life-changing" morning routine. He then reveals what he believes to be the most overrated trend in the fitness industry today! [Trigger Warning.] *For a full list of Show Notes with Timestamps visit www.IndustrialStrengthShow.com.