Conceptual Review of Gymcels and Proposing the Potential for a Fitness-to-Radicalization Pipeline

• In Event: Social Institutions and Crime across the Life Course

Abstract

“Involuntary celibates,” or incels, describes a group of men who believe they are genetically inferior to other men and perceive rejection from society, particularly from women. Although incels have been examined broadly, research has largely overlooked specific subgroups, with this conceptual review focusing on gymcels. Gymcels believe that by improving their physique, they will face less rejection and attract more women, leading to sexual relationships. This is evident in gymcel terminology, ‘looksmaxxing,’ an umbrella term describing a regimen of physical exercise, diet, protein intake, and sometimes, male body enhancement procedures. In an era where physical fitness is heavily marketed and companies aggressively advertise male enhancement products, we argue that there is the potential for a fitness-to-radicalization pipeline to develop. Men risk stumbling upon incel ideologies disguised as fitness content while those drawn toward incel beliefs may become further entrenched through algorithms that facilitate radicalization. Even men initially hesitant about incel ideologies but who remain in gymcel communities for fitness may become radicalized through repeated exposure and the social bonds they form. Understanding this process is critical, as men’s radicalization in these spaces negatively impacts their mental health while also contributing to a broader culture of misogyny.

Authors

• Mackenzie Freeman, West Virginia University

• Ericka Y. Portillo, West Virginia University

• Elizabeth Moberly, West Virginia University

• Brandie Pugh, West Virginia University