Someone once told me that my programs are akin to “fitness styling.” She said I should call myself a “fitness stylist;” someone who guides clients toward activities which suit who they are.
There is no doubt that certain personality traits seek out specific activities. There are numerous fitness personality tests available online. Depending on your answers, they offer a category of what type of exerciser you are and what activities are best for you. There is research to support the position that to consistently live an active lifestyle, fitness choices must match certain personality traits. So just because your BFF loves her boxing class, you don’t have to. So there. It really comes down to knowing yourself from the inside out. Here are some things to consider when discovering various physical activities:
- Do you like to be around people and talk when exercising?
- Do you like to get your mind off of the drudgery?
- Do you like to be told what to do?
- Are you a leader?
- Do you like a calm atmosphere?
- Are you competitive?
- Do you like to have fun when you exercise?
- Do you like to push yourself?
- Do you get bored easily?
Here is what I can say about finding the “right” activity: sometimes it takes a ‘try and try’ again approach; try activities on to see if they fit, so to speak. Before you sign the dotted line, invest in the paddleboard or buy that yoga outfit, make sure the activity feels right to you. Go to more than one class taught by more than one instructor. Try out different gyms before you sign up. Work with more than one personal trainer to find the right match between what you like and what the trainer can offer. Every trainer has strengths and it may take a few sessions to find the right fit. Try walking a different route at different times of the day. The bottom line is to clue into who you are and what you like. And remember, this is a process; it doesn’t happen overnight. There really is such a thing as a fitness journey.
Enjoy the wild ride.