Fit Nation

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Americans are more obsessed with exercise than ever, yet paradoxically, they are also unhealthier. The belief that exercise is essential to a fulfilling life has evolved from a niche activity to a ubiquitous part of modern culture, with calls to engage in various fitness activities everywhere. However, the reality is stark: only 20 percent of Americans consistently work out, over half of gym members do not utilize their memberships, and fewer than 30 percent of high school students achieve an hour of daily exercise. This raises the question of how fitness became both ubiquitous and inaccessible. Spanning over a century of American history, the narrative delves into the complexities of contemporary exercise culture through original interviews and archival research. The author, a political and intellectual historian as well as a certified fitness instructor, examines the evolution of fitness not just from a consumer perspective but through the lens of those who shaped it—performers, educators, and trainers. The author posits that fitness is a social justice issue, advocating for a revolution in fitness culture to make it inclusive for all bodies. By exploring diverse venues—from the World’s Fair and Muscle Beach to feminist health clinics and yoga retreats—this work reveals that fitness transcends physical health, touching on deeper aspects of American identity.