How Lingo Creates a Sense of Belonging
In every community, language plays a crucial role in shaping identity and fostering a sense of belonging. This phenomenon is particularly evident in niche groups like fitness enthusiasts, weightlifters, and CrossFit athletes. Using insider terminology, or lingo, is a way to signal membership and create a shared understanding among group members. When someone walks into a CrossFit box and hears terms like “WOD,” “AMRAP,” and “PR,” they immediately recognize that they’re part of a unique tribe with its own language and rituals.
Research supports this idea, suggesting that the use of specific jargon can enhance group cohesion. A study from the Journal of Language and Social Psychology found that shared language helps to establish a common identity, fostering a sense of solidarity among group members (Bourhis & Giles, 1977). When people use the same terms, they feel more connected and understood, creating a strong, supportive community.
The Flip Side: Exclusion Through Language
However, the same language that brings people together can also create barriers. Insider terminology can make newcomers feel like outsiders, excluded from the conversation and the community. Imagine walking into a gym for the first time and hearing people talk about “Bulgarian split squats” and “low hang snatches.” If you’re not familiar with these terms, it can be intimidating and alienating.
Journalist James Clear highlights this issue in his article “Why We Don’t Do the Things We Know We Should Do.” Clear explains that when people encounter unfamiliar language, it can create a psychological barrier, making them less likely to engage and participate (Clear, 2013). This exclusionary effect can be particularly pronounced in fitness environments, where the fear of looking inexperienced or out of place can deter people from seeking help or trying new activities.
Insider Terminology in Fitness: Us vs. Them
The fitness industry is rife with insider terminology, often used to differentiate the “us” from the “them.” Terms like “Bulgarian split squat,” “low hang snatch,” and “American kettlebell swings” are part of the specialized lingo that sets fitness enthusiasts apart from casual gym-goers. These terms not only describe specific exercises but also signal a deeper level of knowledge and commitment.
In weightlifting and CrossFit, the use of such terminology is almost a badge of honor. Knowing the difference between a “clean” and a “mid-hang halting clean pull,” or understanding the shorthand of T2Bs, C2Bs (and whatever other body parts you can possibly throw at a pullup bar) can make you feel like a seasoned veteran. This insider knowledge can be empowering, but it also reinforces the divide between those in the know and those on the outside looking in.
The Big Question: Inclusivity vs. Exclusivity
This brings us to a critical question for the fitness community: Do we want to make our members feel better, cooler, and more special by using insider terminology, or do we want to make outsiders feel welcome and our community easy to understand? It’s a delicate balance to strike.
On one hand, using specific lingo can create a strong, cohesive community where members feel proud of their knowledge and skills. On the other hand, making the language more accessible can help attract and retain newcomers, fostering a more inclusive environment.
The Lumos Fitness Collective Approach
At Lumos Fitness Collective, we strive to bridge this gap by using anatomically specific language that is both precise and accessible. Instead of “Bulgarian split squats,” we try to say “rear foot elevated split squats.” Instead of “low hang snatches,” we use “below the knee snatches.” And rather than “American kettlebell swings,” we try to describe them as “overhead kettlebell swings.” Note I say “try to”- it can be hard to unprogram language we’ve used for a long time.
By using clear, descriptive terms, we aim to make our workouts understandable for everyone, from seasoned athletes to first-timers. Our goal is to create an environment where everyone feels welcome and confident, regardless of their fitness level or familiarity with the terminology.
Conclusion: Striking the Balance
The power of language in fitness is undeniable. Insider terminology can create a strong sense of belonging, but it can also be a barrier to inclusivity. At Lumos Fitness Collective, we believe in striking a balance. By using anatomically specific language, we honor the expertise of our seasoned members while making our community accessible to newcomers. After all, fitness should be about bringing people together, not keeping them apart.
References
- Bourhis, R. Y., & Giles, H. (1977). The language of intergroup distinctiveness. Journal of Language and Social Psychology, 1(2), 105-119.
- Clear, J. (2013). Why We Don’t Do the Things We Know We Should Do. Retrieved from James Clear’s website.