Sure, body image in the media has had some negative effects in society. People of all ages have been influenced by the “ideal” images that the media has created. People everywhere feel pressured to look like the standard manufactured by the media. However, the effects of body image in the media are not all negative. Some people have taken drastic steps to try to achieve the “perfect” body because of the pressure from the media, but others have taken it as an initiative to get in shape. The importance that the media has put on appearance has motivated many people to change their lives for the better. If the media has pressured people to start eating healthier and working out, then it has had a positive effect on those people. Being conscious of one’s body and making healthier choices is a good thing.
There are many programs that have taken advantage of the increase in health awareness. The two fitness programs pictured above, P90X and Zumba, are examples of ways that people have been trying to improve their bodies. P90X is a high intensity strength training fitness program that is done at home. This makes it even easier for people to get in shape and strive to be happier with their appearance. The other program, Zumba, is a fast-paced aerobic exercise program that can be found at many gyms. For many people, it is a fun way to get a quick but intense workout in. Because of the added pressure by the media, more and more people have taken advantage of programs like these in order to live a healthier lifestyle.
The media can be a positive influence and powerful education tool when it comes to teaching and promoting healthy lifestyles and choices. Although it is a double edged sword in the sense that the media is the driving source in so many negative ideals; however, it can be equally effective in the promotion of healthy role models, positive lifestyle choices in fitness, as well as, nutrition. It is important that the powerful influence of the media is not over looked. It is critical for parents to monitor and be involved with what their children are viewing and the amount of time allocated to different types of media. Average consumers must also be leery of hidden messages in advertisements and general media as we too are susceptible and not immune to the powerful influence of media generated ideals.
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