Working Out Doesn’t have to Feel like such Hard Work: 5 Tips for Finding the Fitness Vibe that Works for You
Sick of dragging yourself to the gym to lift weights and run in place on a treadmill? Does meditating on a mat at the end of a yoga practice send shivers down your spine? It’s easy to think of working out as being something you have to do because it’s good for you—like eating vegetables (Fun Fact: Sarah actually had herself hypnotised to eat more veggies), but getting active doesn’t have to be like forcing down that kale smoothie. Like anything else in life, it’s a lot easier to stick with something that you enjoy doing. Maybe, the reason it can be so hard to keep to a fitness regime is because we often forget to take our own individuality into account. Here are a few things to consider on your search for the fitness vibe that works for you.
1.) Channel your Inner Child
What was your thing when you were a kid? Did you play football? Netball? Did you love to dance? Exercise doesn’t have to look like lifting weights at the gym and repetitive cardio. Try looking into your past to find inspiration. From ballet fit to animal movement (yes… animal movement…we had some questions too) there are so many options out there that much more closely resemble play than they do work.
2.) Learn from your Past Attempts
What have your barriers been in the past? Do you have injuries? Was the class time wrong for your schedule? What was it about your past attempts at getting into a consistent fitness regime that made it either unenjoyable or unsustainable? Take these into account as you try out new things. If you are not human until at least 8 am, committing to a 5:30am class might not be for you.
3.) Determine your Goals
What are you trying to achieve? Are you trying to increase your fitness, or lose weight? Maybe get stronger or improve your endurance. Experiencing success and making progress on your goals will help you stay motivated. If your goal is to lose weight then picking a low intensity activity more geared to general wellness might lead you to become frustrated and stop moving all together. By aligning your goals with your effort you might find celebrating the little wins keeps you going.
4.) Think about your Environment
Where are you happiest? If you love being outside maybe hiking or cycling might be best for you. If you enjoy hanging out in front of the TV, then maybe a cardio machine and your favourite show might be a good shout. Do you prefer being around other people or sweating it out solo. Does it matter to you if you’re in front of a mirror while you train? Finding a space you’re comfortable in can make a big difference to the experience.
5.) Consider your Personality Type
Are you an extrovert or an introvert? Do you like being part of a team or is focusing on your own individual performance more your vibe? There is research to suggest that taking your personality type into account when it comes to developing your approach to fitness can improve the duration you stick to an activity. For example, if you’re an extrovert—maybe working out in a group with other people provides a social element that keeps things interesting and fun. Equally, if you don’t enjoy being around other people, it may be wise to look for activities that are less high arousal and more solitary.
Signing up to something like ClassPass might be a good way to try out different things and find what works best for you. (Check out our blog on how to embrace your individuality and everything about you!) The great thing about it is that if your passion fades or if you’re not feeling what you’re doing anymore, you can just try something else— be sure to give whatever it is a chance before you make a call though. There is no shortage of ways to get active, you may as well enjoy yourself. The better you feel the more likely you are to stick with it for the long term.