The 'Poise, Sports and Body' Triad

Almost everywhere around the world, there seems to exist a major obsession with appearances. This obsession may manifest itself differently from one individual to another. However, almost for all, the calories, the carbs and the 'next round of squats' do seem to matter. It has been widely expressed in literature and in media that such radical obsessions may lead to a temptation to take it to the extreme and that this could be very dangerous at times. The aim of this book is not dwell on such dangers nor relevant repercussions. The research for this book and its desk study came about from its author's curiosity. Having observed the evolution of a sophisticated fitness scene in Istanbul in the last decade, the comprehension of sports, body and poise became a mystifying subject. What motivated people of Istanbul to frequent a gym and to exercise on a regular basis? Was there a link between the increasing number of fitness facilities in Istanbul and its people? Were these people also socially connected in ways other than their gym membership? The result is a collection of survey data and anecdotes, which attempt to recap motivational drives of sportive individuals living in Istanbul.