Survival of the fittest

An in-depth review into Netflix’s “Physical: 100”

Screen grab from official Netflix trailer

Korean survival shows are often repetitive, continuing a tradition of the same old challenges. For example, there are programs where young men and women compete to debut in a group, and there are programs where comedians play games to win a meal. Essentially, it’s getting boring. “Physical: 100,” on the other hand, is different and refreshing.

In “Physical: 100,” 100 contestants compete with one another for a chance to win 300 million won or $230,000 USD and win the title of who has the best physique. When talking about the best physique, they don’t mean who has the “prettiest” figure. They’re rather looking for someone who can withstand various physical activities. Such activities include where contestants are tested on their speed, strength and more.

One of the best things about this show is the diversity. Often, women are overlooked when it comes to being strong, but this show shows otherwise. White, Black and Asian contestants are present in the show, which is nice to see considering how conservative South Korea is.

Another great strength of the show is its message. It doesn’t conform to societal expectations of a “fit body” and has people of many shapes, and yet they show great results in the challenges. This show really tells its audience that societal stereotypes are not everything.

The concept of this show is very similar to the famous Netflix Show, “Squid Game,” except, obviously, there’s no death involved, and participants are respectful towards one another. While, there is a possibility that this show is doing so well due to its similarities with “Squid Game,” this show is worth watching. It encourages viewers to achieve the impossible just like its contestants.