Why Exercise is Bad For You

Recently, a journal published an article stating that 'most people don't like exercise' and listed a few ways to keep you motivated. But if you don't like doing something, why would you want to find ways to keep doing it?

Exercise is defined as 'an activity requiring physical effort'. Sounds difficult. And uninteresting. Playing in the park with your kids sounds like fun though, right? Or going skiing with some friends? Or exploring a new neighbourhood on foot or bike? Technically, all these things are 'activities requiring physical effort' but you don't think of them as exercise. Instead, you think of them as leisure or adventure or social events. So how do we do more of those things and less of exercise?

Do things you like

The best way to keep moving is to do something you actually like. You're far less likely to be concerned about how many calories are being burned if you're simply enjoying yourself during a physical activity. If you enjoy competitive sports, pick your favourite and join a league or set up a game with some friends. If you don't care about winning, pick your favourite activity and just go for it. Of course, if the gym is your thing, then you're probably all set!

Make it social

For many people, the social element is key to sticking with an activity. Not everyone wants to go to their activities all the time, but if you remember that you'll be able to catch up with Jake or Jenny, often that helps get you out of the door. Even knowing that your friends are expecting you to show up can help keep you accountable and consistent.

Make it a regular event

Joining a league or having a standing date with a friend is a great way to build consistency into your routine. Doing something once in a while is better than nothing, but doing something regularly and often is the best way to feel like you're improving and changing.

Change it up!

Don't be afraid to try new things and give your routine a shake-up. No matter how much we like our regular activities, trying something new is good for the brain and your nervous system. And you might find you that you really enjoy something you never even thought about!

It doesn't really matter what activity you do, so long as you do something. Remember, ideally you want a minimum of 30 minutes a day of movement even if it's broken up into smaller increments. If you don't think about that movement as work, you're bound to find something you enjoy and will forget all about the exercise part!

#train