325, 145, 963. That number represents the population of the United States of America this year, and with that many citizens, there is without question, hundreds, even thousands, of different lifestyles being lived. Within that statistic, only one out of every three children are physically active every day, and less than 5% of adults take part in half an hour of physical activity on a daily basis. With that in mind, I ask you this question: Are Americans getting the adequate amount of exercise that’s recommended? If not, Is there something stopping them from doing so?  

A common assumption, which could be pinpointed as the reason as to why Americans aren’t getting the amount of exercise that’s recommended, is the fact that technology is more prevalent nowadays than it has ever been before. Over the past decade, the development of technology has progressed and solidified its place in modern society, and has greatly affected the lives of those with access to it. Most people, who lack sufficient knowledge on the benefits of different platforms, jump quickly to the idea that technology is the “bad guy”. However, I believe that, in some ways, it does more good than bad, especially in regard to the fitness-fad that’s currently dominating the social media world.

32% of teenagers consider Instagram to be the most important social network, and base things that they do and participate in off of the posts they see on the app. It’s been proven by many studies that the majority of young people do spend too much time on their devices and tablets, and of course it’s not healthy to spend hour after hour searching and staring at a phone screen. Multiple studies have found that 17.2% of children are considered obese, as well as 7.6% of adults, validating the argument that there is an issue with the amount of exercise people are getting, but not necessarily that technology is the cause of it.

I believe that there are many benefits to being connected. I can’t check my Instagram feed without seeing a handful of posts of girls working out, sharing their free product promotion codes, and modeling different brands’ active-wear; and quite honestly, I find it motivating to see women in very good shape, living what seem to be healthy, happy, and authentic lives. I have fitness apps on my phone, one in particular called Nike Training, that includes everything an individual could want in a fitness-based app. It has different strength building programs, running programs, yoga sessions, and diet tips/planning. I think it is pretty amazing, and it sends me reminders everyday, so I’m sure to never miss out on a workout.

I am very grateful that I have the world in my hands, it allows me to discover things, learn, and connect with others. Although many people believe that technology influences people in bad ways, I think that, when used appropriately, can have great effects on those using it.