To gain an insight into the influence of social media and its role in the perception of the ideal body image: an explorative study into training methods of women gym users 18-25

Soriano, N. (2018) To gain an insight into the influence of social media and its role in the perception of the ideal body image: an explorative study into training methods of women gym users 18-25. Undergraduate theses, University of Chichester.

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Abstract

The present study examined how social media influences women’s notions on the ideal body image. This enabled the examination of how women construct their bodies in relation to this perceived ideal body through training methods. The use of social media in gaining information on specific training methods was further explored in order to suggest how social media acted as a tool to transform women’s bodies. The research was based on female participants’ aged 18-25 in Surrey and was driven by the prevalence of engagement with social media in today’s society, specifically focusing on fitness. The research was collected through qualitative data to explore participants’ engagement with social media and its impact on the body ideal. In order to achieve their desirable body, the use of social media was explored focusing on training methods adopted from various social networking sites. The results suggest that social media is a key influencer in determining what is perceived as the ideal body image. It also suggests how notions of the ideal body image have changed due to different body types being exposed and as a result there is awareness to new training methods. However, despite this positive change in ideal bodies, women are still hesitant to enter the masculine area of the gym creating inconsistencies when aspiring to achieve a new muscular ideal. Therefore, further research should be done in combatting the barriers that arise when women wish to venture into the weight training area.

Publication Type: Theses (Undergraduate)
Additional Information: BA (Hons) Sport Development and Coaching
Subjects: G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > GV Recreation Leisure > GV557 Sports
G Geography. Anthropology. Recreation > GV Recreation Leisure > GV557 Sports > GV711 Coaching
H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General)
Divisions: Academic Areas > Institute of Sport > Area > Sport Social Sciences
Student Research > Undergraduate
Depositing User: Ann Jones
Date Deposited: 01 Apr 2019 11:42
Last Modified: 01 Apr 2019 11:42
URI: https://eprints.chi.ac.uk/id/eprint/4551

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