Introduction
Starting the year in Austin, Texas, has granted me a unique perspective as a British Online Coach. Navigating the nuances of health and fitness in the United States versus the United Kingdom is proving to be an eye-opening (and somewhat traumatic) experience. This blog will explore the most striking differences I have identified between the two cultures.
1. Food Quality
One of the first cultural shocks I encountered upon moving to the US was the perceived lack of emphasis on quality food. While Austin boasts a diverse and rich culinary scene, the abundance of poor-quality, ultra-processed food somewhat overshadows this. We have eaten some sensational BBQ so far in the few weeks we’ve been here, but these good eateries are vastly outnumbered by an infinite amount of shit and completely forgettable fast-food restaurants. It really wouldn’t take much effort to completely wrap on your nutrition and blow up like Augustus Gloop, as there is a fast-food franchise on virtually every street corner. You have to go out of your way to maintain a healthy BMI over here. Whilst the UK has its own obesity epidemic to contend with, and is far from perfect, I think healthier food choices are much easier to seek out on the average British high street.
2. Tall Poppy Syndrome
The contrasting attitudes towards fitness and success in the UK and the US are striking. In the UK, the infamous "Tall Poppy Syndrome" often rears its head in the training culture. For anyone not familiar with the term, this phenomenon effectively sees individuals cut down by others when they’re perceived to have achieved too much success. This inevitably creates a more reserved fitness culture in Britain, as individuals are more self-conscious about sharing their achievements. In contrast, the US tends to celebrate success more openly, fostering an environment where personal achievements are recognised and celebrated, providing motivation for others. Admittedly, as an introverted Brit, this flagrant narcissism is quite jarring to be around constantly, but a part of me is envious of the shameless self-confidence.
3. Outdoor Opportunities
The sheer scale of Austin (and the broader United States as a whole), is both awe-inspiring and challenging, especially when it comes to living an active outdoor lifestyle. Unlike the UK, where some form of green space is usually within walking distance of your front door, the vastness of Austin dictates that most things are only accessible by car. This is particularly problematic as a visitor, as the chances of you just stumbling across a green space or a walking trail are very slim. You need local knowledge to know where to find them. Given that there is no shortage of space here, when you do eventually reach your chosen destination, it will almost certainly be on a bigger scale and have better facilities than in the UK. However, the fact that a car journey is required to get anywhere here does take a fair bit of adjustment.
Summary
At the risk of sounding like a Louis Theroux voice over, bridging the gap between the health and fitness cultures of the US and the UK is proving to be a fascinating journey. Despite only being here for a few weeks, I have already identified a stark contrast between how I’d usually live my day-to-day life back home, and the lifestyle I’ve adopted in Austin. Fundamentally, I haven’t been here long enough yet to decide which I prefer, but I will re-assess this topic at the end of my trip and cover it more comprehensively.