What do you think of when you hear the word “Exercise?” What about the phrase “Work out?”
I would bet that the majority of people in the United States conjure up images of treadmills, gyms, group cycling classes, and people sitting at Nautilus machines doing rep after rep after rep.
These images explain why many people have to force themselves to get their blood pumping and “work out.”
The whole fitness industry focuses on the end result rather than the process. This is evidenced by the "Shake Weight," "Electric Shock Ab Belt," and "Chest Magic" products. If you asked somebody why they were hitting the gym three times a week, it is much more likely that the person would respond, “To get a flat stomach,” than “Because I love it!" Many people also feel a societal pressure to work out, which can end up creating a very negative relationship with exercise.
The majority of people want to be fit, healthy, and have bodies that reflect that, but they don’t really care how the goal is accomplished. Whether it is paying supplement companies who promise incredible muscle gains, or trying the latest workout fad designed for maximum fat loss, people just want results.
On the other end of the spectrum from those who purchase an electrical belt and hope for a six pack are those that truly exert themselves when they go to the gym. Many of these high-effort people push themselves hard on the last mile of their run or during their last few bicep curls, hating every second of it. They continue to push themselves in the pursuit of a better physique.
Moving our bodies and working up a sweat should be something to look forward to. Not only does physical activity give us a break from the static nature of many modern cultures, often times moving around comes with a sense of accomplishment, camaraderie, and plain old fun.
There are a number of ways people enjoy being physically active. None of them are right or wrong, because everyone has their own unique goals.
Playing a sport is one great way to enjoy being active. Team sports are great for meeting people and making friends while still working up a sweat and increasing motor coordination.
Another option is to get into an individual sport or activity like running, hiking, or biking. If you choose to pursue one of these options you have to make sure what you are doing is enjoyable. If you are running, make sure you are outside enjoying nature and going at a comfortable pace. The same goes for biking, because treadmills and stationary bikes are about burning calories, whereas running and biking outdoors are about adventure.
Some honestly like going to the gym and lifting weights. I know, because I am one of those people. But I don't load up the barbell while wishing my workout was already over. I savor the struggle of controlling the iron, and I enjoy hitting new personal bests.
Others like to do aerobics classes or spinning classes. While these things certainly aren't for me, many people like the social aspect of group fitness. And there is nothing wrong with that, especially if it means people are looking forward to their physical activity.
Whatever you choose, make sure you enjoy it. Working out should fill you with excitement, not dread!
These images explain why many people have to force themselves to get their blood pumping and “work out.”
The whole fitness industry focuses on the end result rather than the process. This is evidenced by the "Shake Weight," "Electric Shock Ab Belt," and "Chest Magic" products. If you asked somebody why they were hitting the gym three times a week, it is much more likely that the person would respond, “To get a flat stomach,” than “Because I love it!" Many people also feel a societal pressure to work out, which can end up creating a very negative relationship with exercise.
The majority of people want to be fit, healthy, and have bodies that reflect that, but they don’t really care how the goal is accomplished. Whether it is paying supplement companies who promise incredible muscle gains, or trying the latest workout fad designed for maximum fat loss, people just want results.
On the other end of the spectrum from those who purchase an electrical belt and hope for a six pack are those that truly exert themselves when they go to the gym. Many of these high-effort people push themselves hard on the last mile of their run or during their last few bicep curls, hating every second of it. They continue to push themselves in the pursuit of a better physique.
Moving our bodies and working up a sweat should be something to look forward to. Not only does physical activity give us a break from the static nature of many modern cultures, often times moving around comes with a sense of accomplishment, camaraderie, and plain old fun.
There are a number of ways people enjoy being physically active. None of them are right or wrong, because everyone has their own unique goals.
Playing a sport is one great way to enjoy being active. Team sports are great for meeting people and making friends while still working up a sweat and increasing motor coordination.
Another option is to get into an individual sport or activity like running, hiking, or biking. If you choose to pursue one of these options you have to make sure what you are doing is enjoyable. If you are running, make sure you are outside enjoying nature and going at a comfortable pace. The same goes for biking, because treadmills and stationary bikes are about burning calories, whereas running and biking outdoors are about adventure.
Some honestly like going to the gym and lifting weights. I know, because I am one of those people. But I don't load up the barbell while wishing my workout was already over. I savor the struggle of controlling the iron, and I enjoy hitting new personal bests.
Others like to do aerobics classes or spinning classes. While these things certainly aren't for me, many people like the social aspect of group fitness. And there is nothing wrong with that, especially if it means people are looking forward to their physical activity.
Whatever you choose, make sure you enjoy it. Working out should fill you with excitement, not dread!