What exercise routine fits your personality?
Everyone has trouble sticking with an exercise routine at times. If you're struggling, lack of motivation is not always the culprit. Maybe it's the routine that doesn't mesh with your personality. After all, we're all different. One size does not fit all.
If you enjoy solitude, a packed group exercise class may not be your cup of tea. If you're a social butterfly, working out alone in the basement might make you feel like you're trapped in a dungeon. Exercise should make you feel better, not worse. You just have to find the right format for you. Do you see yourself described in the personality types below?
Goal-oriented personalities feel like they need to get things done – all the time. Set short-term goals for this week such as working out three times, and set long-term goals for the next three to six months such as training for a mini-triathlon. After you attain your short- and long-term goals, keep track of them and choose new challenges.
Team players may want to relive memories of sports they enjoyed while growing up – or haven't yet tried. Check with your community recreation department for adult leagues, such as softball, hockey or basketball. Or you can invite friends, family members and neighbors to standing tee times, touch football games or bike rides.
Introverts and extroverts are tricky personalities to match with exercise routines. You may be an introvert and prefer to do your own thing, but can you motivate yourself? You may fully intend to go out for a challenging solo run, only to get bored within minutes and decide to head home. Don't worry, you can still spend most of your training time alone, just find someone who will hold you accountable to your goals such as a personal trainer or
faithful friend.
Extroverts, make sure you aren't too social during exercise. Use the "talk test" to measure your intensity. If you can sing, you're working at a light intensity level. If you can carry on a conversation, you're at a moderate intensity level. And if your breathing makes it difficult to carry on a conversation, you're at a vigorous level, which can rid your body of stress-causing adrenaline and other hormones.*
Playful personalities aren't afraid to try new things – as long as they are fun! You might even enjoy "exergaming," interactive videogames that work out more than your thumbs. No longer just for kids, some exergames can be programmed for intensity levels that include dancing, jogging in place and balance training.
Personalities du jour may feel like an introvert today, but a team player tomorrow. That's great because variety is the spice of active lifestyles. Even if you feel you are strictly one personality type, change your routine at least every six to eight weeks to avoid hitting plateaus.**
Surprise yourself with fun, new activities that match your personality. Your muscles will work harder, you'll add more lean muscle and you'll decrease your risk of chronic diseases and conditions such as heart disease, osteoporosis and high blood pressure.
| * | Source: American College of Sports Medicine. |
| ** | Source: American Council on Exercise. |
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