Most gyms or group exercise classes use
mirrors. Although mirrors aid exercisers in
correcting form, research has uncovered
several negative effects of mirrors in
exercise behavior as well. The presence of
mirrors can heighten one’s awareness of
physique (14). Self-awareness theory (5)
states that anything that causes focus on the
self will increase self-awareness. If there is a
perceived discrepancy between the actual
and ideal self on salient characteristics such
as fitness, negative affect may occur.
Observing oneself in the mirror, especially
with the comparison of ideal fit body type
images, can lead to negative mood and
most especially for women (7).
Additionally, because women are more
likely than men to report body-image
dissatisfaction and engage in methods to
reduce or maintain their weight (9), it is
plausible that the presence of mirrors
during exercise may highlight body-image
dissatisfaction for females more than males.