LEFT-CENTER BIAS
These media sources have a slight to moderate liberal bias. They often publish factual information that utilizes loaded words (wording that attempts to influence an audience by appeals to emotion or stereotypes) to favor liberal causes. These sources are generally trustworthy for information but may require further investigation. See all Left-Center sources.
- Overall, Shape balances fact-based wellness content with trend-driven articles. We rate it as Left-Center biased for its focus on progressive issues like inclusivity and Mixed for factuality due to credible health content alongside pseudoscientific pieces like astrology. Readers should also be aware of sponsored content and affiliate links that may influence recommendations.
Detailed Report
Bias Rating: LEFT-CENTER (-4.0)
Factual Reporting: MIXED (4.8)
Country: USA
MBFC’s Country Freedom Rank: MOSTLY FREE
Media Type: Magazine
Traffic/Popularity: High Traffic
MBFC Credibility Rating: MEDIUM CREDIBILITY
History
SHAPE is a lifestyle and wellness magazine founded in 1981. Initially focused on fitness, it has since broadened its coverage to include topics related to health, wellness, nutrition, beauty, and mental health. Shape is based in New York, NY.
Read our profile on the United States media and government.
Funded by / Ownership
SHAPE is owned by People Inc., a major media company that owns various lifestyle brands. The site generates revenue primarily through advertising, sponsored content, and affiliate marketing, often featuring product recommendations linked to online retailers.
Analysis / Bias
Shape covers health, fitness, nutrition, and wellness topics, often focusing on inclusivity and empowerment while occasionally venturing into lifestyle content. The publication often promotes progressive perspectives on accessibility and social issues but also includes lighter, trend-driven topics that sometimes delve into pseudoscience.
For example, in the article “These Fitness Pros Are Making Wellness More Inclusive — and Bringing the Motivation,” the author shares personal experiences navigating fitness spaces as a Black woman, emphasizing the need for diverse trainers and inclusive practices. While the article emphasizes equity in fitness, it primarily relies on subjective anecdotes and promotional content for specific trainers and gyms, which limits its factual rigor.
In contrast, the article “Astrocartography: The Astrology of Travel” illustrates Shape’s inclusion of pseudoscientific content. The piece promotes astrocartography—a concept linking astrology to geographic locations—as a tool for determining ideal places to live or travel. While presented as a lifestyle feature, it lacks any scientific foundation and is rooted entirely in metaphysical beliefs. This type of content aligns with wellness trends that often blur the line between entertainment and factual information.
Failed Fact Checks
- None in the Last 5 years
Overall, Shape balances fact-based wellness content with trend-driven articles. We rate it as Left-Center biased for its focus on progressive issues like inclusivity and Mixed for factuality due to credible health content alongside pseudoscientific pieces like astrology. Readers should also be aware of sponsored content and affiliate links that may influence recommendations. (M. Huitsing 11/16/2024) Updated (08/02/2025)
Source: https://www.shape.com/
Last Updated on August 2, 2025 by Media Bias Fact Check
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Left vs. Right Bias: How we rate the bias of media sources