Brits are trying out 'Bum sunbathing' thanks to social media (original) (raw)

A survey of 2,000 active adults revealed that 'bum sunbathing', said to boost energy levels is one of the fitness fads that have left fitness enthusiasts most puzzled this year.

Other bewildering fads include practising yoga with animals and ear candling, purportedly used to extract toxins and earwax.

Gen Z are the quickest to experiment with these eccentric trends, with 38 per cent confessing they've tried a new one this year, in contrast to just 16 per cent of Millennials and 2 per cent of Gen X.

On average, individuals have dabbled in at least three different wellness trends throughout their lives - primarily driven by a desire to enhance wellbeing (44 per cent), dissatisfaction with current routines not yielding the desired results (30 per cent) or witnessing celebrities and influencers trying them out (30 per cent).

Chessie King, an online personality and wellness guru, commented: "The list of fitness fads I've witnessed since being on social media is endless and I can put my hand up saying I've been a part of those fleeting trends."

"Going to the extreme of competing in a bikini competition, which was highly influenced by Instagram, I know first-hand how easy it is to be manipulated by all the noise online and offline."

"You can wish for a quick fix or cheat code to achieving your wellness goals but longevity is key. I work out now for future me, 80-year-old Chessie will be so grateful for the time I've spent looking after her."

"That's why I think it's so important for everyone to be able to distinguish between a fad or fleeting trend."

Chessie King highlights that longevity is key when it comes to fitness (Image: SWNS)

For those aiming to enhance their wellbeing, 31 per cent found adhering to a healthy diet the most difficult aspect, while 19 per cent struggled with participating in exercise.

The key motivators for exercising were health and wellbeing (66 per cent) and improving mental health (48 per cent), as per the OnePoll statistics.

Other factors that motivate people include socialising with friends (13 per cent) and being incentivised by rewards (eight per cent).

The research, conducted by Virgin Active discovered that adults are inundated with over four fitness-related posts on social media daily - predominantly from Facebook, Instagram and YouTube.

The overwhelming volume of wellness trends on social media has left nearly half (48 per cent) of people feeling bewildered, unsure where to seek reliable information.

Additionally, half of the respondents reported encountering fitness and nutrition trends that contradicted advice they had previously seen.

Donna Collins, Virgin Active's head of product, commented: "We know that people are confused about where to turn to for wellness advice that actually works."

"Our members frequently approach us for help in distinguishing between genuine advice and transient fads promising unrealistic and unsustainable health benefits. We aim to provide wellness without the BS and it's crucial for individuals to be part of a community where they can be themselves."

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