Isabel Brooks, a 25-year-old journalist at The Guardian, opens her article by questioning whether spending so much time at the gym, despite being part of the healthiest generation, truly leads to happiness. She suggests that while regular exercise has numerous health benefits, the time commitment can detract from other enjoyable activities, such as socializing with friends. This reflection underscores a growing concern that the pursuit of health and fitness can sometimes overshadow personal relationships and relaxation.

Furthermore, the article elaborates on the stringent routines that often accompany a commitment to fitness, including adhering to specific workout schedules and maintaining a strict diet. These habits often require a constant awareness of calorie limits and mealtimes, which can become burdensome. Brooks emphasizes that the discipline of these routines, though well-intentioned, can lead to an unhealthy relationship with one’s body and mind, fostering anxiety and stress about meeting self-imposed standards.

In light of this, the article raises important questions about societal expectations surrounding health and beauty, suggesting that the pressure to look a certain way or stick to a rigorous fitness regime might not be worth the mental toll it takes. Brooks encourages readers to find a balance that embraces health without sacrificing holistic well-being, advocating for moderation and diverse activities in pursuit of happiness.