Friday Flex: Your Health Doesn’t Need Gurus
You’ve scrolled through social media and—bam—there it is: someone claiming they’ve unlocked the real reason why you’re struggling with your health. They tell you the medical system is out to get you, that doctors don’t actually want you to be healthy, and, conveniently, they happen to know the secrets to true wellness. They’ll suggest you ditch conventional medicine or science-backed advice and instead buy their supplement, program, or miracle cure.
It’s an alluring pitch. We all want to feel like we’ve stumbled upon insider knowledge. But here’s the truth: If someone claims to know the “secrets” that your doctor or a medical professional doesn’t, they’re either misinformed or trying to make a quick buck.
The “Secrets” Are Usually Just Misinformation
A common tactic these influencers or “gurus” use is to pit themselves against the established medical system, creating an “us vs. them” narrative. They’ll tell you the system is broken—and sure, the system has its flaws, but this narrative often skips over an important fact: scientists and medical professionals do not personally profit from the research they conduct. In fact, research shows that the vast majority of scientific studies are funded by government grants, universities, or non-profit organizations, with no personal financial incentives for the researchers themselves .
Meanwhile, the people pushing these “secrets” almost always stand to profit directly from your vulnerability. Ever seen an Instagram influencer talk about how mainstream medicine is failing you and then sell you their “special” supplement? Yeah, there’s a financial motive, and it’s not hard to see it.
Take, for example, the case of Gwyneth Paltrow and her company Goop. Paltrow has claimed everything from jade eggs (supposedly for vaginal health) to untested “detox” treatments that are scientifically dubious at best and outright dangerous at worst . The claims have been so outlandish that in 2018, Goop settled a $145,000 lawsuit for making unproven health claims about some of its products .
Then there’s Belle Gibson, a wellness influencer who built an entire brand on the lie that she cured her cancer through a healthy diet and lifestyle. Gibson sold books, apps, and more—all based on a false premise. She was later exposed for never having had cancer at all . People like Gibson aren’t just misinformed; they actively exploit the public’s trust for personal gain.
It’s Not Always as Simple as They Claim
The allure of these health “gurus” is that they present an easy solution to complex problems. Lose 20 pounds in a month with this one supplement! Cure your chronic pain by following this simple diet! But if achieving optimal health was as easy as following a quick fix, wouldn’t we all be in amazing shape by now?
What science tells us is that health is rarely a one-size-fits-all equation. Take weight loss, for example. While calorie restriction and increased physical activity can help most people lose weight, the long-term success of weight loss interventions is influenced by factors like genetics, environment, and psychological health . That’s why those promising overnight transformations are misleading at best and harmful at worst. They offer overly simplistic solutions to problems that require nuanced approaches.
A good example of a more balanced approach is seen in the realm of exercise. According to studies, consistency and progressive overload (i.e., gradually increasing your workout difficulty) are two of the most reliable methods for building strength and improving fitness . It’s not flashy, it’s not a secret, and it’s definitely not a quick fix—but it works.
What We Do at Lumos: No Secrets, Just Results
So, how is what we do at Lumos any different? Well, first of all, we’re not selling you on magic solutions. We’re not telling you that the entire medical establishment is out to get you, nor are we claiming to have any mystical knowledge that will “fix” your health overnight.
What we are doing is helping you build a foundation for long-term health through a combination of practical fitness programming and real accountability. The programs we create aren’t based on secrets; they’re based on proven methods like consistency, strength training, and cardio conditioning. And while that doesn’t sound as sexy as some “biohacking” trend, it works.
We understand that health is complex, which is why we offer personalized programs that fit your needs. We’re not selling false hope or pretending to have all the answers. What we can do is help you make consistent progress, and that’s a much better deal than a one-size-fits-all miracle cure.
Beware of “Influencers” with Ulterior Motives
Take a moment the next time someone tells you they have the secret to health. Ask yourself: Who’s benefiting here? Are they selling something? Are they asking you to believe something that flies in the face of well-established science?
Remember that real health and fitness are rarely glamorous. It’s about showing up, putting in the work, and making steady progress over time. Whether you’re aiming for strength, endurance, or just better overall health, it comes down to consistent effort.
In contrast to flashy influencers, the doctors, scientists, and health experts often work behind the scenes, following evidence and trying to make public health better for everyone. While the system isn’t perfect (and yes, profit-driven motives can creep in when corporations are involved), by and large, research is designed to uncover the truth—not to hide it.
Conclusion: Stick to What Works
The next time you come across a “health guru” trying to sell you a miracle solution, take a step back and think critically. Are they selling snake oil or science? At Lumos, we don’t do snake oil. We do hard work, consistency, and real human connection. And while that may not sound as shiny as the “latest health breakthrough,” it’s the kind of thing that actually works in the long run.
