[sasaf5]

> If one wants to get in shape they almost need to make fitness a hobby.

"In shape" is the normal state of a human being. If you want to get in shape you just need to disconnect from the high calorie food supply and eat normal, plus do a bit of walking.

For some reason we have come to believe that everyone is born fat and only lose weight through costly and time consuming interventions.

[blfr]

Most people expect more from being in shape than just not being fat. I expect to look good without my shirt on and have at least some endurance.

For that you probably need at least 3h of decent training per week. After you add changing, showers, etc, it's a commitment of 5-6h a week. Quite a hobby. I certainly consider it a hobby.

[saiya-jin]

Well you can consider eating healthy a hobby, it sure takes more than just quick visit to McDonald or any similar junkfood joint, and it costs more too so there is another skewed justification for why not do anything and have more miserable life.

I think you are not getting the point - being fit was the default since humans mutated from our predecessors, till very very recently. I mean I can't believe I have to explain this to anybody, especially here.

Also, you have incorrect world view on what it means 'being fit' that may be very effectively hindering your motivation to get better. Its definitely not about looks, if somebody is selling it as such they are doing a great disservice. Some people have genes that make their bodies look very different from ripped bodybuilders with 4% body fat, yet if they are very fit can achieve pretty amazing things.

Don't look for external validation, if you are happy in your own body (which being fit brings pretty much guaranteed, some mental disorders notwithstanding) then its all good and you can focus on other amazing things in life, while being happier, living better and longer and so on. Everything is connected.