Social Media Gave Me Body Dysmorphia (Warning)

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In today's video we're talking about the potentially harmful effects of fitness social media along with a variety of tips you can employ to minimize them. Instagram fitness (or even TikTok fitness if you know where to look) can be a helpful place for furthering your muscle building and fat loss knowledge base, but it can also have certain consequences related to body dysmorphia/body image if you aren't careful. When you're constantly being shown the absolute most aesthetic physiques and ripped bodies over and over again (which are further enhanced through PED use, filters, editing etc.) it can start to warp your perception and turn your fitness and bodybuilding journey into a source of stress rather than as something that is used to enrich your life. Make sure to watch this video all the way through for some helpful advice that can be used to counteract this.

[@Sean_Nalewanyj]

💪 IMPORTANT REMINDERS: ✅ Get your free training and nutrition plan: www.SeanNal.com/custom ✅ Follow on IG for more daily tips: instagram.com/sean_nalewanyj ✅ Check out my science-based supplements: www.RealScienceAthletics.com (Save 15% on first order with code KZbin15) P.S. If you signed up for a program and didn't receive it, make sure to check your junk/bulk folder. If it didn't show up there either then contact info[at]seannal[dot]com to have it re-sent.

[@bartsimpsonn6027]

With every day I respect you more and more. Youre constructive but honest, know youre own bounderies and don't give absolute advice outside of your expertise, you are good at explaining things and really in touch with the demand for fitnesscontent over all as well as within your own community, and you do all this for free, with no agressive advertisment, just a friendly and honest reminder off your Supplement company now and then. Seriously, thank you!

[@jamesrimes2870]

The fun starts when girls after seeing all these dudes on Instagram start thinking they need a Gigachad, tho

[@yosefomar4357]

Hi Sean i have a problem , i use the free workout ppan you sent me and i would say it is a good workout plan cuz i can train full body workout at home with only dumbbell and barbell . But i have problem when i do barbell or dumbbell shrug my neck hurts so bad that i have to stop doin it everytime what can i do to get rid of this pain .

[@thealbinorhino8760]

Can you please do a video on the most recent video from Jeff Cavalier. He states 47 foods with high protein. He discusses things like pasta without discussing calories or macros like fats or carbohydrates. Its super misleading and so many blind followers are just going to eat the wrong foods. For a guy who is so smart he continues to become more integrated in selling his own product vs provide real information. This stuff drives me nuts in the fitness community

[@burakozdemir3157]

@@yosefomar4357 try to have good posture by keeping ur shoulders back and chest up. Dont carry too much heavy weight ( if u already are) and also make sure to breath properly during the exercise. Hope this helps

[@MarioTomicOfficial]

One of the best pieces of advice I got was "Bodybuilding is all about creating the right illusion". It was in my first year of training. The guy who told me had been lifting for nearly a decade. He explained how Arnold and Frank Zane used poses to hide weak areas and draw attention to their best body parts. It made a lot of sense and completely changed my perspective on bodybuilding. Great video man!

[@cripplingcaffeineaddiction3847]

social media fitness influencers literally embody this

[@Schuffed]

Arnold standing in water posing to hide his calves

[@justrushi.2542]

Ya dude!

[@cstoneno3766]

Your video about realistic expectations (kzbin.info/www/bejne/m5mweaGIbN6Antk) also helped me a lot. I've been training for over 2 years and when I started I was thinking "I'm gonna look amazing in 6 months," which wasn't realistic at all given my starting point, the amount of time I'm able to devote to it each week, and being in my late-30s. Some days I look at myself and think I can't believe I've been able to get to where I'm at, but most days I can't believe this is all I've gained after 2+ years. Sticking with it is hard when you don't see the results you were envisioning in a short time, but I'm just pushing forward and trying to recognize that slow gains are still gains. Bringing it back to Sean's video, none of the huge guys on KZbin or Instagram have only been training for 2 years, either (at least not without chemical help). And I'm guessing a huge % of the people watching fitness influencer videos are new or fairly new to training, so it's hard to set realistic expectations without knowing where they're coming from. I appreciate how frequently Sean says he's been at this for 20 years.

[@enes-the-cat-father]

Mario, you are also one of the also solid content creator in fitness field. Big respect for you!

[@losasakarosa9050]

As a female I can say that deleting insta was the best decision ever. It’s been 3 years now. I’m so sure it’s the same for you guys, I can’t imagine how hard it is for u guys with all those ridiculous standards then guys claiming to be natural when they’re not. It’s the same for us just with plastic surgery and face tune. Both deceiving and lying to their impressionable audience.

[@chad8519]

It really is. Multiple times I have been discouraged from going to the gym because I felt my results were not coming in fast enough and significantly. Especially when I see some guy 10 years younger than me having a very impressive physique so quickly due to steroids. I just want to be happy with my progress no matter how many times I fall off track or how long it takes.

[@ruthhuijgens]

@@chad8519 Yo us girls don't even find these godzilla types attractive. It's such a shame if this would keep you from working out. Maybe consider working out at home? I started doing this because I felt uncomfortable shouting and making faces in public when training close to failure. 😅 this is not very girl-like behaviour I guess. Sod them.

[@michaelthorpe1869]

It's not just fitness, politics too.. less is more

[@Drivyaz77]

Agreed

[@vanillabatcave5677]

Truth

[@elisteele574]

Sean I really hope you find and read this, man. I can't tell you how relevant and important this message is to the community today. I have too many friends that fall into that trap, and I'm really excited to show them this video. Thank you, sir.

[@donmcdouglas5017]

im starting to see with evidence that tiktok and instagram were designed to re engineer society for an agenda

[@steveo6408]

@@donmcdouglas5017 you’re just now starting to see that?

[@xleg3ndkill3rx]

@@steveo6408 no need to be a douche.

[@steveo6408]

@@xleg3ndkill3rx not being a douche. Just find it interesting.

[@donmcdouglas5017]

@@steveo6408 no not just now, I should have rephrased it

[@michaeldehart3253]

I dropped all social media, with the exception of KZbin, about three months ago. I only watch videos that add value and knowledge, such as this one. My mental well being had improved dramatically. Thanks for all you do Sean.

[@marccheroni9971]

Bro are you living my Life? This is exactly what I did and it is also about three months now XD

[@reyder7661]

Lmao y’all are both living my life! I dropped all social before summer besides KZbin, my life my mental my relationship, and my goals in the gym have all improved dramatically!

[@reyder7661]

@ocelot. you’ll find a real one bro there out there, even if they do have a social it’s not a deal breaker at least for me it wasn’t it just can’t be there life, not snapping or tagging every meal they eat or squat they rep. I can’t stand that shit! Like no one cares especially if your a dude! I mean if your a chick all guys see is ass and titties. People think there so deep and woke but stay living in the shallow

[@lavessagrangjr.4283]

And I thought I was the only one lol We got this, bros. Keep grinding💪

[@slade6959]

Good shit guys

[@visceralkilos1829]

As someone with body dysmorphia, one thing that my therapist shared with me, that I’ve always kept close to my heart, is that no matter what you look like, you’re *always* someone’s ‘body goals’ Thank you so much for this video, Sean.

[@Boulos-cb2un]

Sorry what a bunch of BS. No one aspires to look like a person who is bed ridden with morbid obesity and breathing through an oxygen tank.

[@DanielGiuseppeDiNiro]

Social media are such a toxic environment "quittin" them is still a good advice even if you got no body dismorphia

[@Camcolito]

So true. Better yet, never start using them.

[@justinhunt4767]

Na it's you algorithm

[@rnac5438]

Sean you helped me jump back into fitness and health, seriously after a bad break up, keep it up sean! 💪👑

[@kvas6255]

You too huh ?

[@frahmanov3141]

You too?

[@kvas6255]

@@frahmanov3141 looks like I’m not alone 🥲

[@rnac5438]

we're all in it together bros, lets keep it UP 😤💪👑

[@kvas6255]

@@rnac5438 NO CAP🔥

[@yogapants_teacher]

Thank you! As a female, I really have struggled with this- and long before I started lifting. I’m in my 40s and am at about 28% body fat. I have a long way to go,but I’ve come soooooo far. I forget about that part sometimes because all I see are young lifters with seemingly perfect physiques. I’ve started searching and following women who show “natural bodies in the gym.” The rolls, the exhaustion after a hard set, the messy hair, the cellulite that lives in harmony with muscle, etc. I’m slowly seeing more of these accounts, and it has been encouraging.

[@xxxmelissatacionxxx]

28% Body fat is good and ideal for a woman tbh (esp in their 40s). Keep doing what you're doing! :)

[@80sRetrosaur]

If that's you in the profile picture trust me you have nothing to worry about you look gorgeous and I don't mean that in a creep way.

[@FernandoGM17]

This might be one of Sean's best and important videos. He doesn't need subscribers, the subscribers need him💯. Thank you Sean

[@bertvanstaveren3178]

Indeed. Guy is very smart and allround. And got a great presentation too. Keep up the good work !

[@brickvision8858]

I made the mistake of comparing myself to enhanced body builders when I 1st started training naturally. I've just been focusing on myself and being proud of what I've achieved

[@nicolaalberti7736]

Enhanced bodybuilders made the mistake to compare to me, at first, when I started training naturally, now they are focusing on themselves not being so proud of what they've archived.

[@BaldOmniMan]

Dragon Ball Z characters specifically Broly and Super Trunks give me body dysmorphia. Not because of their muscles, but because of all that dang hair

[@nobodyreally4749]

You either train like Broly or go home to Yamcha

[@carlossssssss5492]

The og came

[@daywalker________7677]

Finally seen a Super Saiyan with a bald spot. Gives me hope.

[@MMDesignsAPB]

I can relate to this a lot. I am 190cm tall and many years ago I weighed 60kg. Pair that with long and chaotic hair and I looked like a walking mop. Now I am holding around 80kg somewhere around 15% BF but sometimes I still feel inadequate. Which is unfortunate because I am very proud of putting on about 20kg of mostly muscle over many years. I am a pretty late bloomer and while nowadays I have decent success on a visual basis, many years of being in the "shadows" and overconsumption of social media has left long lasting confidence issues many years later. For anyone struggling with this I would recommend deleting all social media that isn't necessary and restraining the leftover ones to mostly informational content. I did this one year ago and I feel significantly better. Kind Regards

[@aryafalahati5975]

Im 179cm and at 15 i weight was 62 and 16 months later im 90kg same body fat but i fell more insecure lol

[@niranjandeo7010]

.I am 189cm and went from 63kg to 72 in 3 years but can't seem to gain more weight.Do you have any advice?

[@MMDesignsAPB]

@@niranjandeo7010 It's hard to say without knowing you, but in general if you are struggling to gain weight you are either not consuming enough calories or burning too many calories. Or both. I would start by tracking calories for a week or so and calculating a rough estimate on how much you burn with and without exercising. It was also hard for me to gain weight until I actually knew my calories. Kind Regards

[@GundamAngelicDevil]

I'm glad to come across channels like yours, Eugene Teo, and John Meadows (and many others like Greg Doucette), you guys tempered my expectation when it comes to strength building and recomping, and taught me to set reasonable goals. While I don't think I went through body dysmorphia, I used to work out with negative reinforcement, every workout was always not good enough and it demanded an impossible growth curve. Thanks to you (and your custom plans!!) and many other channels, I've stopped that mindset and placed my faith in the belief that I will get there as long as I work for it.

[@ahmademad9696]

I mean Greg Doucette literally promotes false expectations with his "maingaining" strategy and thinks that everyone can stay lean year-round

[@Marcus-rs6fr]

@@ahmademad9696 Tell me what is flawed in his perception of maingaining?

[@viktorepifanov7138]

@@ahmademad9696 Greg has always promoted staying at a comfortable body fat level year round. For some people it might be 20, for others 15, for others 10. If you feel good at 15% then you drop your body fat to 15% and stay at that level while slowly putting on muscle mass over years. I don't see what's so negative about that.

[@vanyel_etc8695]

@@viktorepifanov7138 "why can't you keep the abs and still gain muscle" - an exact quote from Greg. He's a fraud.

[@viktorepifanov7138]

@@vanyel_etc8695 Because you can't lol. For most people good defined looking abs are at ~10% or lower. For an average person being 10% body fat or slightly lower is realistically unmaintainable. When you're in that low body fat it's really hard to progressively overload and put on muscle. That's why Greg suggests to go back up to a higher percentage of fat because you're clearly aren't comfortable at 10.

[@Alex-mq6qi]

Social media in general is horrible, of course it's gonna be even worse in an industry where looks are this important

[@aarongibson7090]

As a mental health professional I really appreciate you bringing awareness to mental health issues and destigmatizing psychotherapy.

[@vanessawhitney5796]

I noticed a difference when i quit using Instagram and Facebook for sure. Now i only use youtube and its much easier to control what content I come across.

[@Rikarwb]

Never used instagram, facebook only for uni/work, but i can imagine how quitting those can help you be more "realistic" about body expectations

[@deanevans7707]

Great video sean. My daughter suffered with anorexia and was in hospital for 7 months. She nearly died all because of body image that she went down to 70 pound in weight . Luckily she’s now healthy looks amazing and is training to be a fire fighter but what she used to see in the mirror was the complete opposite to what everyone saw. This is such an important topic to be talked about and social media, magazines, and tv all should have a responsibility to show that the average person as you say does nt look the way they portray. It just makes both girls and boys feel they are not good enough cause they don’t look that way. It’s a very sad situation we are in and something should be done by the powers at be, to protect our vunerable people like my daughter was from thinking they as a person ar nt worthy to feel good about themselves because of the way they look. Thankyou for doing this video it needed saying.

[@WolfStreak]

I'm sorry she went through that, but glad she's recovering. It is very scary to see how.much media is skewing the perception of being "attractive" and "fit."

[@WolfStreak]

@Bent on fire. Bored troll.

[@frankezane583]

Glad she’s better now 🙏

[@billyscott4281]

I’m glad she was able to recover

[@bigphil9714]

5 years no social media, I watch KZbin for channels like this. Thanks for all the great info on your videos mate 🇬🇧👍🏻

[@broken12367]

Same here no Facebook Twatter or Instagram

[@Justs99171]

We have distorted the meaning of "fitness." I was in an argument with a young woman about this not so long ago. She just didn't get it. Being physically fit means that you have endurance, flexibility, stamina and strength. Most of these "fitness" people don't come anywhere near this description. There are a lot of physically fit men which society doesn't consider to be as aesthetic as these narcissistic jokes flaunting their bodies for a piece of ass. It doesn't matter how much you can bench press if you can't touch your fuckin' toes without bending your knees or run to your mail box without hyperventilating. Think about this. How many NFL offensive lineman don't have a 6 pack? ... yeah, that would be most of them. Yet the general perception is that they are not as "fit" as these pretty boys in Instagram.

[@thebigquack6945]

I relate with this so much. Ben back In the gym after a year Fighting depression and ive made very visible progress Yet whenever I go online, just makes my efforts look and feel like shit. I gotta remember that these guys have been in the grind since they were kids or are juiced up

[@officialkirin7219]

Tbh I also kinda have that problem. I felt so bad every time I was going on instagram. All those fake nattys with perfect light and edited pics. 1-2 month ago I deleted it from my phone and not gona lie, I feel much better since then.

[@timbates799]

Great stuff Sean. I fell into this trap with the goal of getting perfect "Insta Abs". In the end I was so obsessed I ended up at 6% body fat and well underweight eating only 1500 calories and working out every day. I didn't build any muscle because I just wasn't eating enough and burning way too much. And guess what... I didn't even have great abs at the end of it! Genetics I guess!

[@kathirilakkiyansm1167]

When I deleted insta, many of my friends asked me to comeback. But I realized there are lot more to enjoy and discover in my life than scrolling through the social media. Now I am out of every social media platforms and I feel more relieved and peaceful

[@Nattles17]

Man. I love your content Sean. You really have helped me a lot on my fitness journey the past 7 months. As a skinny guy going from 120lbs to 160lbs(and still gaining). I suffer heavy with body dysmorphia. I still see that skinny kid in the mirror everyday. So no matter how much mass I accumulate I still feel shitty. But this video has really helped put things into perspective. Keep up the no bs fitness info man. You are killing it.

[@TallGino]

@peace he gained weight by eating more calories than he burned

[@vorsillionx]

I can relate to this. Before I was aiming to have the body of similar to Frank Zane, Scott Adkins, etc. This is the effect of being involved on a lot of fitness content in Social Media. As time passes on, I realized that every individual is different and results vary depending on lifestyle which includes diet, sleep, fitness level and so on. Right now, I just want to be the best version of myself while trying to be healthy, look better, get stronger and adapting thru the life's challenges. My workouts are even simpler now compared to before - I was doing 6 days a week and even done two workouts in a day and right now, I'm sticking to three days per week in full body fashion.

[@joshbernal4864]

Man I'm glad I started watching you brother. You seem to be one if the more down to earth and honest fitness youtubers out there. I appreciate the directness man, and it really is easy to start comparing yourself to others to the point it gets unhealthy.

[@Moose92411]

This may be the single most important video you’ve ever put out, Sean

[@kvas6255]

I just got out of a bad breakup, ppl are telling me “get over it bozo it’s been months”. I look at other ppl she’s pinning and I felt inferior, I felt I was lost and didn’t know how to move forward with life. Keep in mind I work out almost everyday and have a defined six pack and pretty decent muscles. Thanks Sean, you helped me move foreword.

[@mango_sheikh786]

Wdym pinning?

[@RelaxAndSmokeMeth]

@@mango_sheikh786 I think he meant pegging.

[@kvas6255]

@@RelaxAndSmokeMeth 😂😂 nah 🤣 like an Instagram ping

[@mango_sheikh786]

@@RelaxAndSmokeMeth lol

[@hypergalaxyjackv2572]

Idk but everytime I watch Sean I feel like he's literally talking to us 🤣😂 Keep up the good work💯💯

[@missylovestroy]

I need to get my daughter to listen to this video ! It’s so true and not just for body building , but for any facet in life

[@gphanisrinivasful]

15:49 "Just being grateful that I have a body and I am able to train..." very beautifully put. Developing this gratitude goes a long way in appreciating and enjoying working out.

[@HWORD-xg6hi]

Hey Sean. Thanks for the message in this vid. Unplugging from environments that can become toxic is something we all need to do when they no longer are constructive

[@charlesvela1800]

I've just discovered your channel today, and I'm glad I did. You sound so well-informed, supportive and honest about everything you say. You are definitely one of the channels that provides me objective value by sharing your perspective. Thank you!

[@alexanderboyy]

Sean i cannot tell you how much more respect I've gathered for you by this video alone. The message behind it is eye opening and I'm confident to say that you've helped thousands of people with their mental health. Just by posting this 17 minute video. Thanks for being one of the few social media creators that actually care about their audience. You've helped me so much with my fitness journey and i'm fortunate enough to have discovered your content. Once again, thank you!!

[@emmanuelramirez5120]

Sean this is exactly why I love your channel and quit watching guys like anthlean x and thenx. I like how you don't BS and help alot of us fitness enthusiasts keep a positive outlook on achieving our fitness goals with realistic tools and advice! You've become my sole source of fitness advice. Thank you sir and keep up the great work👍

[@mustalks7426]

I find AthleanX to also be a NO BS fitness channel. Gives great advice and never gives off the impression of "youre not good enough"

[@garvithinger_kmc3297]

Athlean X is good tho 💀

[@WolfStreak]

@@mustalks7426 I'm guessing you haven't watched much of Sean's videos Lol. He does NOT like Athlean X, and makes a lot of good points of calling him out.

[@dicrurusparadiseus]

Sean spittin FACTS out here. Very insightful and worth a watch.

[@AtaresDR]

I do not really comment much, but this is pure gold. I've been training for over 10 years and side by side, I'm in better shape than any natty I've encountered face to face. Still, I feel small and not lean enough when I look at myself. It's not only social media doing all of it, I only watch some youtube once in a while, no social media time in my day. The feeling could be from being very self critical, always thinking "I can do better!". sometimes you just have to sit back, relax and be content with what you have.

[@agustinusrangel2575]

Again, why you are a beacon of light in this fitness online space. This helped significantly, I have been dealing with body dismorphia because of my childhood trauma and added the social media. I need to watch this several times to really let it sink in. I know you're not a therapist or psychiatrist but you did really good and the fact that you are in the fitness industry and that you went through this problem at once holds a lot of weight. Thanks a lot

[@jenssieckmann]

Sean, this is one of the best videos if not the best I've seen in the last weeks not only regarding fitness but general lifestyle. You definitely have talents and skills in analyzing social behaviour and extract conclusions and give advices that will help the vast majority of people. The mentioned problems of musjudgemnet of oneself in different regards, constant comparing to others, narcissism are the drivers of mental illness. Digital detox is definitely a remedy to a certain extent. The average human does not need to "Play the Game". Thanks for the great content and please continue.

[@dave2167]

Thanks for the awesome video Sean. Around 2 years ago I completely wiped out social media activity from my life, before I even really started caring about fitness. I can earnestly say that it has had a tremendously positive effect on my mental health, and I didn't use many social media apps in the first place. If anyone has considered going for the ripping off the band aid approach and getting rid of it completely, I'd personally advise it. It will also net you more time throughout your day as you won't be using up that time scrolling through apps.

[@abdullaashjau7924]

The most genuine, most humble person I have ever seen in the fitness content.

[@danieldistrola2873]

Sean is right, we need to be happy with what we are/have and not compare ourselves to the "perfect" male body with 6+ pack abs. I am 62, with 17% body fat, which is actually really good. I have suffered with body dysmorphia for years, and it's taken me this long to be happy with who I am and what is really important. I no longer judge myself by the size of my waist, which I had become obsessed with. Keep on lifting, doing your best, and the rest with take care of itself.

[@billyscott4281]

I’ve struggled with this my whole life. I was always a chubby kid and was made fun of all the time for it.. it drove me to starve myself for like 4 weeks, lost 20 lb. had to basically restart all my gym progress, since starving yourself eats at muscle before it does fat. 2 yr later, I eat just fine, but it’s hard to not let the content get to you. Thanks for talking about this Sean, this made me feel very heard.

[@Austin_Shredder]

Incredibly relevant video for me as a guitarist AND lifter. These problems apply to both equally. I took a break from social media and content creation for 5-6 months this year and it gave me a fresh perspective. Thanks for this! Our value is not determined by influencers and algorithms.

[@ronaldonogueira74]

17min of a simple and perfectly rational analysis, probably better than hours of therapy sessions. I'm so glad I got rid of all social media many years ago, lots of time to live my own life now. KZbin is the only media left but also with a time limit per day.

[@raymonkravagna278]

I'm somebody who would has been an athlete his whole life and I must admit,I never once even thought about comparing myself to anybody else. There's always going to be somebody who looks better than you and there's always people you are going to look better then, that's just life.

[@SLISKI_JOHNNY]

15:55 - I wish somebody had told me this when I was a teenager. I've been working out and trying to look as best as I could most of my life (I used to be a bit chubby as a kid) but now as an adult I realize that I neglected social aspect of my life. What's good in having a nice body if you're really lonely and have no skills to gain new friends?

[@Jewellianna]

Wow!!! I absolutely love this video Sean! Incredible!🙌🙌🙌

[@dicrurusparadiseus]

What I like to keep in mind (and what I expected to be included in this video) is to compare yourself not to someone else, but to yourself last year.

[@cahlendavidson2921]

Compare yourself to who you were yesterday, not that who someone else is today.

[@alexpalsater7983]

That hit home, especially the being in a supermarket and studying the strangers calfs, comparing or guessing his/her training routine. Like muscular physique is one of the first things I study when I see people. I do it without even thinking about it. How do you get away from that narrow minded "obsession"

[@jensiecast]

Sean, this is possibly one of the best video releases on your channel. I’ve been subscribed for quite some time now and take the advice you provide seriously. You took a subject and made a deeper dive that I did not expect. The narrative towards human evolution and how the environment we inhibit has dramatically changed compared to how much our brains have changed. I can admit that I have dealt with body dysmorphia on numerous occasions and I still do. Although yes, I’ve been complemented for my physique (especially since I’ve been training for the Iron Man 70.3), I still find myself comparing myself to others. Now do I care as much as before? Na, I don’t this time because I tell myself that I want to be “the best version of myself” that I can achieve. Not a body like Arnold or Frank Zane, a body like mine. It’s the only body I got. And just like the body, filled with muscle tissue that grows, your brain can also grow to on how you see yourself. It’s all about perception. The attitude you have, will create the perception you have on yourself. Everyone is beautiful in their own unique ways. And no one should cast judgement on another just because their not as genetically gifted. What anyone should do is just go put the work in. Give yourself a chance to be the best you can be. And like Nike best put it “Just do it”. Sean, I hope you read this and know, Me and my partner would like to possibly even have a future podcast with you. You are definitely a “real one” and I appreciate the time and energy you put in providing “quality” content with no BS filters. Cho, brother. Hopefully we can make this happen. Just respond……and we will.

[@shawnsmith4692]

This is definitely a huge problem, not just for fitness but for everything. Basic psychology states that discontent is created only when you perceive someone or something else is better than what you are or have. We are also naturally drawn to seek out comparison information. Social media preys on that instinct so that now, no matter how hard I work or how much progress I've made in any area of my life, it only takes 5min on instagram to find 500 examples of why I'm actually trash. Social media is basically raping our subconscious and selling tickets in the form of ad space. Of course, the obvious solution is to just turn off social media. But that's easier said then done when most of us are clinically addicted to it to one degree or another.

[@cheatbluevii9123]

Remember, this is your journey, so don't compare yourself. Go through all of the bumps and obstacles until you reach your peak.

[@athefitz]

Sean, thank you for taking the time to talk about things like this. I subscribed to learn more about physical fitness but I truly appreciate that you try to help folks with their mental fitness too.

[@lethalescape9572]

One thing about getting lean that I never though about was as you lose fat, your stubborn areas can seem more magnified. When I had extra weight everywhere, it at least looked even. I tend to lean down fast in my face, chest, and arms, and it made the remaining fat on my back, stomach, and obliques look more pronounced and attributed greatly to my body dysmorphia. I thought I looked scrawny with a big ol beer gut. At a certain point in your journey, this can happen and make you think you look worse than before. Don't buy into it and understand that consistency will be your friend.

[@luccatorrezanpiccin4]

This is so painful. I’m carrying a noticeable amount of fat in my low abs, but I don’t have it anywhere else, which makes me look weird shirtless. I think i would look better if I had more fat all around 😂

[@lethalescape9572]

@@luccatorrezanpiccin4 this feeling is so true and I still struggle with it, it's like the last damn pound of fat I have on my whole body is stuffed into my belly button. I hate it lol

[@Mandolindo]

Honestly, I'd rather have a ton of muscle with a higher body fat percentage (within reason) then abs and deflated muscles. Last time I cut down I looked frail, deflated and weak. My proportions look better in a fluffier state so long as I keep my muscle.

[@anthonyburwell2860]

I personally don't have a problem with social media because I know that those people usually are the top tiers of genetics and don't represent the average person I use it as inspiration not imitation

[@Luaramuffin]

Even in my early life I was always self conscious, this is particularly why I won't download any social media so I don't try to compare myself with others. Only focusing on my own accomplishments. Stay strong everyone!

[@Give_Me_Rent]

You know sean is a genuinely good fitness influencer when he gives free training and nutrition plans. Stuff like that you shouldn't have to pay for.

[@reesneidinger5005]

I like how you described the evolutionary aspect of this mentality, kind of makes it feel less in your control, and something that everyone deals with. which can be liberating for some people, including me.

[@johnsheawi6173]

Sean, as someone who used to have a fitness instagram account I couldn’t agree more. I started comparing myself to others and feeing absolutely terrible that my physique looked nothing like other athletes. At one point I had to shut down my account because of what I was going through. I started looking at my own goals and loving the way I looked more and more. Thanks for talking about such things man, others and myself appreciate it.

[@fleurgal001]

That’s exactly what I do . This vid is on point. That’s why I subscribed to this channel in the first place. I don’t understand why ppl photoshop their bodies. I get it when ppl use filters bc I use them on IG to have fun on reels . Also i noticed that some females at the gym like to give ugly looks to pretty girls for no reason. I’m there to build my body the way I want to ( I don’t like to grow hamstrings much bc it gives the illusion that your peach is little) once again I’m building MY BODY how I want to. Furthermore; the gym is like a mental therapy to me. I’m not at the gym to flex or try to lift heavy than someone else . My journey is different. I’m so happy I’m back to my journey again .

[@letsmakeit110]

When I go to the gym I look like shit by comparison; when I go to walmart i look like a god. Its all relative i guess.

[@DC-wo2yb]

Best analogy. "meh" in the gym and literally a greek god at walmart

[@1thevm1]

You know what gave me body dysmorphia? People in my gym. Just when I think "holy crap my arms are huge now, phew that was a lot of work," I immediately see some dude effortlessly having double the size of my arms. Welp, back to 8 hour arms workout I go I guess.

[@Storiaron]

Yeah. Funny how it's the gym that makes me feel small, haha

[@Felhate]

I totally feel you. I lost a lot of weight but still got lots to lose left. Whenever I go practice at my BJJ gym, I always feel left out due to everyone being more buff/cut than me. It is... very disheartening since I am picked usually last since they just see me as the "heavy guy" even though i was 210 and I am now 180.

[@Mo-gt8fh]

Keep at it bro, that to me is an amazing achievement - stay strong! Maybe find another BJJ institute if they're not very supportive.

[@ThingsYoudontwanttohear]

Excellent video. The selection element of social media is the main reason I do not care most of the time if a bodybuilder is natural or not, because they likely have top 0,1% genetics for esthetics even if they are truly natural and I (just like 99.9% for people) do not have top 0,1% genetics so I cannot expect the same speedy results from their methods no matter what.

[@pedrotenoriomendes]

This guy broken a lot of my illusions, and I'm really grateful for that...

[@JiraiyaSama86]

Thank you, Sean. For echoeing something that I have said before, about how we, as a species, have not truly acclimated yet to the new technology that's around us.

[@rafailkoko3620]

You are the best bro We love you Thank you

[@Attrazzione]

Same here as soon as I go on instagram & Snapchat I begin to get bad mood and anxiety. I get so stressed out all the time and whining for no reason. Maybe there something wrong with me not with social media for feeling that way, but it is how it is and I just feel much better without it.

[@bachscar]

Thanks for putting this video up, Sean! I've only been lifting and working out for 2 years, but like so many comments I see on various KZbin workout videos, lots of guys complain that they 'aren't big enough'. Having learned a lot about the physical improvement/body building videos I've seen, I realize it's going to take plenty of time to build the kind of muscle I'd like to have. In the short time I've been at this, I'm still surprised and pleased with the progress I'm making, even though it's not as quick as I'd like it to be. The benefits I get from working out exceed the 'must get bigger' mantra. I just turned 63, and I can honestly say I've got more muscle mass on me now than I've ever had. Your videos, such as this one, really help keep things on an even keel, so I appreciate a channel like yours. Thanks again!

[@nuvitcoskun4324]

One easy fix: Stop looking at dudes and focus on chicks...

[@OscarCastilloDelacruz]

Good advices. I deleted my Instagram account a couple of years ago and deactivate my Facebook every few months and concentrate on having a social life in real life and it has work out for me.

[@god0771]

Wow really good advice. It is a big problem with the fitness community. Even in the gym it’s a problem. So many young kids taking PEDs and just developing so quickly

[@dalequale9365]

Encouraging words Sean. I'm 67 and my gym experience now is so different from my 1970s lifting. Then I did compare myself to the meat heads in the gym. Now it's almost a zen like ritual, gym bag, get there, this workout vs last one, is my machine available, Plan B, sets reps weight, no phone, no music, just me between heavy weights and gravity. 2x week, it's better than Rx and disability. 💪

[@BaddogSports]

Although I'm around 9.5% body fat, and have become very vascular, with a very visible 6 pack, veins showing in my arms, shoulders, legs and abdomen I still always feel like I'm not good enough. I know I don't look bad, but I don't look the way I want to. I think it drives me to do great things, but I don't know if it will ever be good enough for me.

[@Cinderkin]

I deleted social media years ago and my life improved drastically. I'll be leaving KZbin soon too. This stuff has become incredibly toxic for people's wellbeing.

[@user-qu4zk7wf6b]

I'm glad you made this video. I had body dysmorphia to the point where I actually broke my neck and spent a year in a brace recovering. Dysmorphia can be lethal for some. If I may elaborate on your shift your focus point: What really helped me was shifting my focus to real life goals. I wanted to be able to hold my kids on my shoulders again, so I worked towards that. I play amateur baseball. I wanted to be a .450 hitter so I worked on that. Stuff like that. Small goals that had real life implications. That really helped get away from the unhealthy part of social media fitness and away from the superficial.

[@TheMkoose]

What an amazing video. Like, I knew all of this deep down, but it was really nice to hear it all laid out so thoroughly and affirm my self-esteem.

[@mervannear603]

Yeah same. I needed to hear it.

[@ianx989]

Sean thanks for all these years of advice! First started watching you as a skinny 16 year old wanting more explosive legs 😂 almost 10 years has passed and I’m still watching your vids just as much.

[@imdabanana1]

Awesome video. For me I actually like that I’m mostly viewing the top .1% physiques online all day because when I go out in public or to the beach I’m like damn I thought I wasn’t big but now I feel pretty good about my physique.

[@CGT37]

Gym noob just wanting to thank you for what you do. Years ago I was kinda half dedicated to fitness but a lot of info wasn’t really available in the same way as it is today. Between feeling confused and struggling with some mental health issues, I let myself go in a big way. You’re one of the voices out here that has really spoken to the accessibility of reasonable fitness goals and helped me make dramatic changes over the last few months. I’m not a big social media person, but I think it’s important to speak to how it affects the fitness community and society in general. So… thank you. For what you’ve done for me and how you’re enriching lives in the community.

[@Dix_Dont_Care]

Being the chubbiest brother out 3, my brothers crushed my body image. I use it as fuel while leaning on the people in my life to keep me grounded in the success i have and as a new lifter mostly just getting in shape and ironing out form i cant see the changes until my friends and family point it out and then im able to admit to myself the success im going thru. Not everyone can do that but always wanting to be healthier but never being able to self motivate using the abuse while also seeing all the positives at the same time has changed my life for the better

[@1999TransAmWS6]

Great advice, I fully agree with this video. I've been working out since I turned 19 in 1995. Back then social media and KZbin didn't exist but we still had things like Iron Man magazine that gave unrealistic expectations when working out. My original goal like many people was to get massive but I'm more of an ectomorph so I have terrible bodybuilding genetics. As I've gotten older my goals are to stay in shape and live a healthy, prescription drug-free life. I may not look like a social media influencer, but at 45 years old I'm still in great physical shape and "look like" I work out. Almost all of my family, friends, and coworkers are all between overweight to obese. Compared to them at family functions or parties, I feel like I look like a Greek God LOL.

[@spikeshape0815]

I don't care about KZbin views and all these digital stats. Your videos and advices are always the best. Thank you!

[@kaganas_edits7551]

Social media gave me OCD, ADHD, and Overthinking everything. Hell.

[@youknowhuwitis]

Sean I started following your videos a month ago and I have to say you’re my favourite fitness content creator online. You’ve helped me dispel so many myths about fitness and wellbeing and I love your no BS, straight to the point advice.

[@SM-lh2rm]

I’m surprised that KZbin didn’t take this down. Glad you are sharing the realities of this.

[@kingsleysmith5190]

Super relevant discussion content. Even if you're not checking out online images all the time, this type of mentality is very prevalent and can rub off to a degree. I think a mind set that can be very helpful is to keep your focus on training as properly as you can according to your knowledge so far and to stay focused on your own personal fitness journey. So instead of getting disheartened about ' how far you have to go ', you can be happy about how far you have come since starting your own efforts. That's a good thought to check in on at times. Great video.

[@matheuskelson]

You're by far one of the most reasonable people in the fitness industry, once again excellent advice.

[@drevil2675]

Completely agree with you. Ig and Facebook are very toxic indeed.

[@franciskimneri1445]

So lucky to be a subscriber of this man, hes so real in everything which kinda rare nowadays already

[@renanterezan9922]

I have been there once and got out, but it is always good to remember how deceiving social media is and how it affects our brain and feelings. That video was excellent. The topic is very important and the way you put it and explained it was just perfect.

[@adisharma8609]

really needed this. i am 16 and have been working out for 9 months now. the first few months there was barely any progress, the my exams came nd so i couldnt go regularly/focus on diet. now that they are over, im going to the gym 6 days a week, increasing weights week by week and eating better. but then i see a fellow 17yo guy with 20inch bieps and there goes my confidence, i dont look as big as you would expect a 9 month gym goer to, but seeing someone wayyy bigger than me makes it worse. but after this video, i looked at myself in the mirro and flexed for like 15mins. and it made me feel way better now.amazing vid, i cannot thank you enough

[@sohailhussain1635]

Wow Sean. Video of the year!!! Thank you so so much.

[@nonemo138]

I REALLY want to stress the importance of blocking accounts. It's called mental hygiene and it's an overlooked practice that we seriously need to learn to develop if we want to lead mentally healthy lives.

[@booliusboolin5544]

Learning to care less about what other people think about me really has helped me in the past year

[@cg4304]

I just wanted to say to this wonderful community that no matter who you are you are loved by someone. I know there are guys and gals out there who try to put on that muscle, I understand you don’t see what we see but we see your gains. We cheer on your progress .We see your back and it looks great. Everyone’s body is different Peek body form can be 140lbs for one but 280lbs for others. Just know there will always be loved ones who care for you and only want to see you succeed.

[@brianshaw4193]

Thanks for the clarity brother. Appreciate your videos.

[@helamananderson3992]

I like how you pointed out that no shit your pictures are gonna be optimized as well instead of just condemning everyone else