It's Been a Minute Exercise is more important than ever
Nov 12, 2025
Jonquilyn Hill, a cultural commentator at Vox, teams up with Shelly McKenzie, author of "Getting Physical." They dive into the booming fitness trend, discussing how exercise transformed from a health taboo to a cultural touchstone. Jonquilyn highlights the role of control amid uncertainty, while Shelly emphasizes limitations, like genetics. They explore why younger generations are embracing fitness, the impact of social media, and how exercise acts as a social signal. The conversation links political messaging to fitness ideals, painting a complex picture of modern health culture.
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Record Highs In American Activity
- Exercise participation in the U.S. hit record highs in recent surveys, with 80% doing some activity and 55% core participants.
- Social and economic factors like pandemic awareness and lack of universal healthcare help explain why people treat fitness as preventive control.
Fitness As Control And Optimization
- People pursue fitness to gain control and optimization in uncertain times, especially young adults.
- When big life goals feel unreachable, spending on classes and workouts becomes a tangible way to improve oneself.
Lift Weights For Long-Term Bone Health
- Lift weights to protect long-term bone health and reduce osteoporosis risk.
- Start resistance training early as a preventive measure for future physical wellbeing.
