Today’s definition of celebrity has changed drastically as the once seemingly unattainable title can now be claimed by almost anyone who owns a cell phone. Today’s youth follows and celebrates social media influencers on Instagram, Tik Tok and YouTube.

Chase McGrew, better known online as @Chasegainss, is a fitness influencer in Bloomington. With 50,000 followers on Instagram, 27,000 views on YouTube and 33,000 followers on Tik Tok, he has amassed a considerable fanbase.

“I just really like the aspect of getting to influence all these people to live healthier lives,” McGrew said. His content focuses on fitness both in and outside of the gym.

His posts highlight correct gym form, healthy diet balancing and positive lifestyle habits. McGrew follows various viral trends and interacts with followers who choose to comment.

McGrew started to grow his following on Instagram back in 2017 when he was a sophomore at IU. He said, “People would say it was so cringe that I started a fitness account.”

Now, it’s a different story. “The same people will come up to me and ask for a shoutout,” McGrew said.

McGrew’s life has changed in a lot of ways since he first started his social media journey. His typical day consists of a visit to the Iron Pit Gym to stay in shape and sometimes film workout content.

He also posts his protein-packed meals and personal fitness tips throughout the day. McGrew actively checks his accounts across various social media platforms to respond to his viewers’ comments.

One value that McGrew aims to endorse in his content is authenticity. “A lot of people in the fitness community try to edit their photos with filters and image morphing apps,” he said. “I don’t do that because I think it’s more important to show the real, authentic you.”

McGrew’s followers and gym friends have suggested that he look into competition lifting. He said he might participate in a weightlifting competition at some point in the near future and record it for his fans.

For now, he plans to continue making fitness content that inspires people to live happier, healthier lives.