ABSTRACT
In this chapter we outline the embodied methodological approaches adopted as sensuous bodies in the field researching fitness cultures. Self-reflexive empirical reflections on sampling strategies, data collection and field relationships employed in our ethnographic investigations are provided and forms of analysis, judgement and representation acknowledged. In doing so, we demonstrate how we integrated ourselves into various fitness settings as ‘experiential ethnographers’ (Sands, 2002), acquiring multiple forms of physical and social capital through demonstrating corporeal proficiency and knowledge of fitness activities and responding appropriately to linguistic codes. Accordingly, we were able to present and perform fitness identities which helped in the development of long lasting and intimate relationships, fostering a rich depth of understanding. We also highlight the tensions that our individual bodies presented in the field in relation to ability, gender, sexuality and age in ways that served to restrict access to some gym spaces and fitness activities and how we navigated these challenges. Outlining these methodological strategies was important in describing how phenomena were explored in subsequent chapters and also provides a resource for other researchers in developing embodied methodologies when investigating fitness cultures.
