High school gym students experiment with strength training, reflecting the rising popularity of weightlifting among younger generations. photo by Emanuel Morales Gomez
Social Media and Fitness Icons Are Reshaping Wellness for Gen Z.
Over the past decade, weightlifting has changed from a niche activity into a widespread trend among kids and young adults alike. This was driven largely by social media and online fitness creators. Icons like David Goggins, Noel Deyzel, Chris Bumstead, and many other influencers have reshaped the perception of fitness making it more accessible, and inclusive.
Many influencers have inspired different populations of gym-goers. Bumstead has become a staple of the fitness industry. Known for his humble demeanor, he has inspired millions though his social media platforms. His approach to fitness shares struggles with disease and the rigorous demands of bodybuilding. This content resonates deeply with younger audiences. Instead of the traditional crazed bodybuilding trend, Bumstead offers a balance of dedication, health, and authenticity, which keeps his followers engaged and inspires them to embrace long term consistency over quick fixes.
Goggins, a former navy SEAL and ultramarathon runner, brings a unique perspective to the fitness world. His mentality has inspired millions around the world. Goggins has forged his message around his story, which was a remarkable drop in weight in order to join SEAL training, Goggins dropped 106 pounds, from 297 to 191 pounds in 100 days. Goggins’ story, as well as his teachings, focus on pushing past physical and mental limits as well as the powerful role that mental toughness plays in self improvement. His motto “Stay Hard” represents the will to push through the challenges of weightlifting and fitness as the path to personal growth. His journey isn’t just about physical transformation, but the tools required such as resilience, discipline, and the will to embrace discomfort. Goggins’ message revolves around “callusing the mind,” which ultimately means to build mental toughness and seeking out and conquering challenges. He encourages his followers to reject fears, push through excuses, and push through self imposed limitations. His best selling memoir, and a New York Times Best Seller, Can’t Hurt Me: Master your Mind and Defy the Odds, outlines his life story, including the hardships of his abusive childhood, his battles with obesity, and his journey of becoming a Naval SEAL. Concepts like these have inspired countless individuals to dig deeper and seek discomfort. Goggins reach continues to grow, speaking on podcasts, creating video content, and more. Individuals who follow him are pushed to seek challenges and get out of their comfort, in order to enhance your body’s potential to the fullest extent.
Social media has also played a huge role in shaping the influence of weightlifting. It has played a role in amplifying the message that fitness creators strive to produce. Influencers such as Deyzel, known for his educational content and supportive approach, have encouraged young lifters to approach weightlifting effectively. Platforms like Deyzel’s have encouraged young lifters to approach weight lifting safely and effectively. According to a Les Mills study, 36% of Gen Z exercises regularly, with many citing social media as a primary motivator. Young generations are moving away from traditional fitness goals, and are now focused on aesthetics or weight loss. This is essentially changing the fitness model from being in shape and capable to looking a certain way and having certain features. This shift has encouraged more diverse groups to embrace weightlifting, challenging old stereotypes. Gyms have responded by redesigning spaces and offering specialized strength training areas to accommodate this growing interest.
While social media has grown access to fitness, it also brings challenges. The unrealistic view of the “perfect” physique can lead to unhealthy comparisons. However, many influencers are countering this by creating content which promotes realistic goals and transparent discussions about mental health and fitness struggles. For example, Deyzel often addresses the importance of patience and consistency in achieving fitness goals, fostering a healthier mindset among his audience. Ensuring to do your research, and set proper realistic goals will allow you to find success in your gym journey.
The rise of weightlifting among younger generations is more than a fitness trend; it’s a cultural movement shaped by online communities, influencers, and more external factors. By blending motivation, education, and gym content, creators like Bumstead and Goggins aspire to evolve the fitness culture, ensuring that it will remain a staple of health and wellness.
