Keywords
Obesity Stigma
Psychological Well-Being
Body Image
Social Pressure
Abstract
Contemporary fitness culture has become increasingly influential in shaping societal perceptions of health, body image, and self-worth through gyms, wellness spaces, and social media platforms. While fitness culture promotes health awareness and self-improvement, it may also contribute to social pressure and psychological distress among individuals living with obesity. This study explored the lived experiences of individuals living with obesity regarding social pressure within contemporary fitness culture and examined how these experiences affected their psychological well-being. The study utilized a qualitative research design employing thematic analysis. Thirteen (13) participants residing in the Philippines were selected through purposive sampling based on their experiences related to obesity and exposure to contemporary fitness culture. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis to identify recurring patterns and themes. The findings revealed that participants experienced pressure to conform to ideal body standards, fear of judgment and social exclusion, emotional distress triggered by social comparison, desire for inclusive fitness environments, and internalization of negative body perceptions. Furthermore, the study found that contemporary fitness culture affected participants’ psychological well-being through constant self-monitoring, emotional detachment from their bodies, guilt and self-blame, emotional exhaustion, and cycles of temporary motivation followed by long-term emotional strain. The findings suggested that contemporary fitness culture extended beyond health promotion and became a socially evaluative environment that significantly influenced participants’ emotional well-being, confidence, and self-perception. The study highlighted the importance of promoting inclusive, body-sensitive, and psychologically supportive fitness environments that encourage holistic well-being rather than appearance-centered validation alone.References
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Copyright (c) 2026 Abnir T. Arilin, Alprince King A. Biri, Nicole Christianne Vidal, Carylmae B. Balmores, Joel D. Anajao, Geronimo Jr. B. Hilario, Fhadzmar S. Dammang, Jillamae S. Verano (Author)