Self-Objectification in the Fitness Center Environment: A Qualitative Perspective

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to explore the perceptions and experiences of physically active individuals in the fitness center environment.  We adopted the interpretive description methodology to examine the question of whether, and how, this environment played a role in individuals’ experiences of self-objectification and their body image.  Interviews were conducted with 16 college-age individuals, who were exercising in a fitness center, at two time points separated by 12 weeks.  Deductive and inductive content analyses of the semi-structured interviews revealed three general themes: (a) body image and body (dis)satisfaction, (b) reasons and goals for exercising, and (c) the physical environment.  This interpretive description inquiry provided a preliminary framework for future studies of self-objectification in potentially objectifying fitness and exercise environments.

Keywords

• Fitness centers,Self-objectification,Interpretive description method

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