God, misogyny, and anti-semitism: The gym industry feeds on old dogmas

A recent investigation into 100 TikTok accounts has uncovered a disturbing trend: young men in gyms are increasingly influenced by misogynistic, anti-immigrant, and anti-Semitic ideologies. These dangerous beliefs, described as 'old dogmas,' are being propagated within a segment of the fitness industry that appears obsessed with cultivating the muscular male physique.

The study, published by Público, delves into the online world of these young men, revealing how their dedication to the gym is intertwined with extremist views. The obsession with physical perfection seems to coexist with, and perhaps even fuel, hatred towards women, immigrants, and Jewish people. This connection highlights a darker side to the pursuit of physical fitness, where old prejudices find new life.

Researchers have identified new angles of the 'manosphere,' an online community often associated with anti-feminist and extremist views, emerging from these gym-centric TikTok accounts. The investigation suggests that these platforms are becoming breeding grounds for hate speech, disguised or amplified by fitness culture. The findings raise concerns about the ideological influences shaping young men who spend significant time in gyms and online.