Influencia del fitspiration de instagram en adolescentes que asisten a gimnasios en la ciudad de Machala.

Abstract

This degree project focuses on analyzing the influence of Instagram's “fitspiration” on adolescents who attend gyms in the city of Machala. Thus, this research arises from the need to determine whether the consumption of “fitspiration” on Instagram positively or negatively influences adolescents who attend gyms in this city. For this purpose, a theoretical framework has been developed that covers topics such as social networks and content related to exercise and nutrition; Instagram and body image; Instagram and “fitspiration”; “Fitspiration” in adolescents; and finally, recommendations are offered to counteract the negative effects of “fitspiration”. The methodology used was based on a mixed approach, using both the collection and analysis of quantitative and qualitative data, to meet the specific objectives: a) evaluate the effect of constant exposure to Instagram “fitspiration” content on the perception body image and self-esteem of adolescents; b) identify the representations of “fitspiration” that are promoted on the Instagram accounts of the studio gyms and trainers; c) analyze the “fitspiration” content on the Instagram accounts of the content creators of the selected gyms; d) correlate the effect of “fitspiration” representations on Instagram in relation to diet, exercise and self-esteem in adolescents. In order to achieve the objectives of this study, three gyms in the city Cava Fit-Club, Iron Gym and Nova Gym were chosen, considering them as training centers with the greatest influx of adolescents. Also, a representative sample was used with adolescents between 13 and 17 years old who attend these gyms. In addition, tools and instruments were developed such as surveys for adolescents where quantitative data was collected on their perception of body image and self-esteem, individual semi-structured interviews were used with trainers, content creators from the selected gyms and influencers. fitness, in order to know the different representations of the “fitspiration” of their Instagram profiles and the expert in nutrition and aesthetics, Mr. Mario Ariza, and the sports psychologist, Mr. Steward Vázquez, were consulted, where they investigated in greater depth how these representations of “fitspiration” on Instagram exert influence. Likewise, a content analysis was carried out on the Instagram pages of the 3 content creators most followed by adolescents. Finally, it was concluded that the representations of “fitspiration” focus on individuals with muscular, defined and marked bodies, generally showing exercise routines and techniques, making adolescents feel motivated and inspired, which suggests a positive influence. However, it was highlighted that negative percussions can also arise due to the promotion of inappropriate information.