#fitspo on Instagram: A mixed-methods approach using Netlytic and photo analysis, uncovering the online discussion and author/image characteristics

J Health Psychol. 2019 Mar;24(3):376-385. doi: 10.1177/1359105316676334. Epub 2016 Nov 15.

Abstract

The #fitspo 'tag' is a recent trend on Instagram, which is used on posts to motivate others towards a healthy lifestyle through exercise/eating habits. This study used a mixed-methods approach consisting of text and network analysis via the Netlytic program ( N = 10,000 #fitspo posts), and content analysis of #fitspo images ( N = 122) was used to examine author and image characteristics. Results suggest that #fitspo posts may motivate through appearance-mediated themes, as the largest content categories (based on the associated text) were 'feeling good' and 'appearance'. Furthermore, #fitspo posts may create peer influence/support as personal (opposed to non-personal) accounts were associated with higher popularity of images (i.e. number of likes/followers). Finally, most images contained posed individuals with some degree of objectification.

Keywords: Instagram; Netlytic; body image; fitspiration; mixed methods.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Body Image*
  • Female
  • Healthy Lifestyle*
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Motivation*
  • Peer Influence*
  • Qualitative Research
  • Social Media*
  • Social Support*