What are some of your early memories of exercise?  Chances are, “fun” is a part of some of those early memories. From a scale of 1 to 10 (if 10 is the most), how much do you love to exercise today? 

No matter what you answer for your rating, we all go through times when we find more or less joy from our daily activities, including exercise.  But if you find yourself frequently uninspired, less motivated, or just not having fun, it might be helpful to think a little more about your relationship with exercise. 

Adjusting exercise – and when exercise might become a problem

Beyond its physical benefits, you probably have heard that exercise can be a key part of mental health. In fact, it is increasingly prescribed as an aid in helping to alleviate depression and anxiety. With all of its benefits, sometimes we struggle with motivation to do enough of it. Alternatively, some of us might do enough of it, but really hate every minute.

How does your relationship with exercise feel different when you are working out/running etc. a lot (‘in-season’) versus when you are on a break or not regularly engaging in activity? It’s key to know (a) how to ramp up exercise when you need to (e.g., for health benefits), and also (b) to know how to scale back when you need some rest.

Sometimes this ability to adjust exercise levels is difficult. Some people exercise in a driven manner (i.e., feel that they must move, or engage in some form of physical activity) in an attempt to influence their weight or shape, or to “compensate” for calories they have eaten (or plan to eat). Someone might also exercise because they feel negative emotions around not exercising (e.g., guilt, anxiety that they will get ‘out of shape’). Sometimes this exercise takes the place of important social occasions, gets in the way of relationships, or is something that we continue to do, despite being injured. All of these possibilities are what we might refer to as “compulsive” exercise – and generally speaking, these scenarios don’t line up with a positive relationship with exercise.

What are some ideas for improving my relationship with exercise?

• Include a variety of fun physical activity in your everyday life: go on a walk as a work/study break; rent a bike on a day off; try a pickup game of ultimate frisbee at your next outdoor gathering 
• Cross-train; it keeps you from being bored and can help prevent injury! 
• If you usually workout solo, try asking a friend to work out with you to hold each other accountable!
• Set goals and reward yourself when you achieve them 
• Find a new type of physical activity that you enjoy that is different from your norm and maybe skill-building (e.g., skateboarding, surfing, dance, gymnastics, or circus arts)
• Find a great podcast to entertain you – especially if you pride yourself on multi-tasking! 
• Alternatively, lose distractions and try a mindful approach to your next work out – slowing things down, and tuning in can change the exercise entirely!
• Try taking an activity outside, or changing up where you normally do it
• Take a day off and really take that day off 

At Beacon Physical Therapy, we support our patients in leading a healthy life and establishing a healthy lifestyle. And remember, if you are having an issue, make an appointment today. We’d love to meet you and get you back to doing what you love.