Fitness Influencer Smash or Pass

Introduction

The trend of fitness influencers has taken social media by storm in recent years. From Instagram to YouTube, these influencers have gained a massive following, with millions of people seeking fitness inspiration and guidance from their posts and videos. One popular topic that has emerged in the fitness influencer world is the “smash or pass” phenomenon. But what exactly is “smash or pass” when it comes to fitness influencers? And is it a healthy trend or something that raises concerns?

Smash or pass

First of all, let’s understand what “smash or pass” means. The term originated as a game on social media where people would rate others as either “smash,” meaning they find them attractive and would pursue a romantic relationship, or “pass,” meaning they would not be interested. This game was often used to objectify and judge individuals based solely on their physical appearance. Unfortunately, this concept has also been applied to fitness influencers, where followers rate them based on their looks, physiques, or attractiveness.

Fallen victim to the “smash or pass”

Many fitness influencers, both male and female, have fallen victim to the “smash or pass” trend. Followers often comment on their posts with emojis or comments, rating their appearance or asking others if they would “smash or pass” the influencer. These comments can range from superficial comments about their body shape, size, or facial features to more explicit and objectifying remarks. Fitness influencers are often judged based on their physical appearance, rather than their expertise, knowledge, and dedication to their fitness journey.

On the surface, the “smash or pass” trend may seem harmless or even entertaining to some. It may be seen as a way for followers to express their opinions or preferences. However, there are several concerns that arise from this trend.

First and foremost

First and foremost, the “smash or pass” trend can be harmful to the mental health and well-being of fitness influencers. Constantly being judged and rated based on their physical appearance can take a toll on their self-esteem and body image. It can create unnecessary pressure to conform to societal standards of beauty and attractiveness, leading to body dissatisfaction, low self-worth, and even mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. Fitness influencers may feel compelled to maintain a certain appearance or look a certain way in order to please their followers and gain more likes, comments, and followers, leading to an unhealthy focus on external validation rather than genuine self-care and well-being.

Toxic and superficial culture

Moreover, the “smash or pass” trend can perpetuate a toxic and superficial culture where people are valued solely based on their physical appearance, rather than their skills, talents, and personality. It reinforces the harmful notion that an individual’s worth is determined by their looks, rather than their character, intelligence, and achievements. This can contribute to the objectification and commodification of fitness influencers, reducing them to mere objects of desire or sources of entertainment, rather than acknowledging their expertise and contribution to the fitness community.

Negative effects on the followers

Furthermore, the “smash or pass” trend can also have negative effects on the followers and viewers of fitness influencers. It can influence impressionable individuals, particularly young people, to develop unhealthy attitudes towards their own bodies and self-worth. When they see fitness influencers being judged and rated based on their appearance, it can create unrealistic beauty standards and ideals that are unattainable for most people. This can lead to body comparison, self-doubt, and low self-esteem, and can even result in disordered eating behaviors or other harmful practices in an attempt to achieve the perceived ideal body image.

It’s important to remember that fitness influencers are real people with feelings, emotions, and vulnerabilities, just like anyone else. They have worked hard to build their fitness journey and share their expertise with their followers. Reducing them to a “smash or pass” rating is not only objectifying, but it