Rethink Your Approach to Fitness Targets

We all know what goals are, right? They’re the things we aim to achieve. According to Merriam-Webster, a goal is “the end toward which effort is directed.” Sounds pretty straightforward, doesn’t it? However, with social media and internet culture, the term “goals” has taken on some new meanings.

So, what do “goals” mean now? An article on Elle explores this idea, suggesting that in the world of social media, “goals” have become a self-deprecating way of pointing out unrealistic things we’d love to have in our lives. You’ll often see them tagged with a hashtag and a prefix like relationship, life, squad, bae, or friendship.

One popular type of “goals” online is “fitness goals.” People share pictures of fit and healthy models, often polished to perfection, setting standards that are pretty out of reach for most of us. It’s easy to see why using these images as examples of realistic achievements can be problematic.

There are also “fitness goals” involving real women doing actual workouts, untouched photos and all. Even these shouldn’t be glorified, though, and here’s why. First, unrealistic images often involve women who’ve had cosmetic surgery. While having such procedures is a personal choice and perfectly fine, it’s misleading to hold these as universal standards of beauty. Often, achieving those looks without surgery is nearly impossible, and idealizing them only serves to undermine your own self-esteem. Admire their beauty, sure, but keep your expectations grounded.

Even women who maintain their fitness without cosmetic enhancements shouldn’t be seen as the ultimate “fitness goals.” Every woman’s body is unique. You could follow someone else’s diet and workout routine and still look completely different. Idolizing other women’s bodies as your own goals often leads to disappointment.

Ultimately, let’s stop the comparisons and start embracing our bodies. Be inspired by others, but know your limits and appreciate yourself. Be your own “fitness goals.”

However, if “fitness goals” have brought anything positive, it’s the increased number of compliments exchanged among women. But don’t compliment others by putting yourself down. Instead of saying someone is “fitness goals,” simply tell her she’s beautiful or praise her hard work. Then, make sure to give yourself that same kindness.

We’re all human, and we all deserve compliments. Let’s be our own “fitness goals.”