Can body improvement turn bad? As a teenage bodybuilding craze sweeps social media, some celebrate young people getting in shape. But for a few, it becomes a dangerous obsession.
Experts warn over ‘gains’ obsession
Gym bro culture: Many people are familiar with the idea that social media can affect girls' body image, but there is less research on how gymfluencers may be affecting boys. Comprehension quiz
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The word “regime” in this context most nearly means:
A: A type of government
B: A specific course of exercise or diet
C: A military group
D: A popular trend
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Which word is the closest synonym for “impairs”?
A: Strengthens
B. Weakens
C: Notices
D: Improves
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Add the correct punctuation to the sentence below.
at just 14 years old george holland is a champion bodybuilder
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According to the article, what did George Holland win at this year’s National Amateur Body-Builders’ Association finals?
A: A gold medal
B: A silver medal
C: A bronze medal
D: A cash prize
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The article mentions long-term risks associated with the extreme diets some teenagers are following. Name two of these risks.
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Some people believe the body improvement trend can be a good thing. According to the article, what is their reason for this?
Answers
Tap to reveal
1. B 2. B 3. At just 14 years old, George Holland is a champion bodybuilder. 4. C 5. Any two from the following: eating disorders, fatigue, depression. 6. They argue that in the face of a rising obesity crisis, it is a good thing that young boys are encouraged to get in shape.
1. B 2. B 3. At just 14 years old, George Holland is a champion bodybuilder. 4. C 5. Any two from the following: eating disorders, fatigue, depression. 6. They argue that in the face of a rising obesity crisis, it is a good thing that young boys are encouraged to get in shape.
Glossary
Bodybuilder - A person who does regular exercise in order to make their muscles look bigger.
Obesity - The medical condition of being very overweight. There are many ways of measuring this, including a BMI of 30 or more. (You can work out your BMI by dividing your weight in kilograms by your height in metres squared.)
Self-esteem - Belief and confidence in your own value and abilities.
Muscle dysmorphia - A subtype of body dysmorphic disorder. It is the delusional or exaggerated belief that one's own body is not muscular enough.
Dietician - Qualified health professionals who treat dietary and nutrition problems. They are regulated by law.
Eating disorders - A range of mental health conditions which result in somebody having abnormal eating patterns, which then affects their physical and mental health.
Fatigue - Tiredness.
Depression - Low mood that affects someone's daily life, and can last for weeks or months.
Paediatrician - A doctor who works with children.
GB - Great Britain