The Best Workout Is the One You Do

I hate exercise.

Maybe I should not admit that on the “Fit Geek” section of this website, but it is true. And if I don’t enjoy something, I won’t do it; I know this about myself. Discipline only goes so far.

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I hate packing up my bag, going to the gym, getting all sweaty, and needing a shower. I don’t enjoy running every day. I can only lift weights for so long before I grow utterly bored.

I could come up with the most rigorous exercise routine, but it would be of no use to me if I only did it once and then seldom or never again. I need something that I enjoy—that is the only way I know I will keep exercising consistently. So I seek out activities that get me to exercise, but for the enjoyment of the activity, not for the sake of exercise.

I know I am not alone in this. Some people genuinely enjoy hitting the gym, but others, like me, find it more of a chore. Here’s the thing: The best exercise is the one you do. Period.

Finding What Works for You

A gym membership will be no good to you if you never go. If you like to go for a walk over your lunch break or when you get home from work, congratulations! That is exercise. So is taking the stairs instead of the elevator if you are able. Exercise does not necessarily mean a 30-minute jog. Maybe you hate running, but you love strolling through the park. Maybe you hate going for walks but enjoy mowing your lawn. Maybe you prefer something more meditative, such as yoga. Winter got you stuck indoors? You may enjoy hula hooping or jumping rope instead.

Enjoying Movement Doesn’t Make It Count Less

An activity does not need to be unenjoyable for it to be considered exercise. Anything that gets you moving your body “counts.” Gardening, biking, rollerblading, climbing trees—all of these are exercise. They are no less valid as forms of exercise for being enjoyable.

Exercise Can Be Incidental

Exercise is also not always an activity you set aside time for. Sometimes it can be as simple as walking upstairs or hauling loads of laundry around your home. Yes, chores can also be considered exercise! Cleaning counters, washing dishes, taking out the trash. They may not be the most strenuous exercise routine, but who says exercise always has to be strenuous? Sure, it can be good practice to push yourself, but you may not always have the time or the energy. If some days or weeks all you have time for is work and household chores, then I have great news! You are still doing exercise, even if it does not feel like it.

I don’t believe that exercise needs to be the same set of motions for a set period of time every day. If you find something that you do consistently, and even enjoy, that is more beneficial than an exercise routine you struggle to stick with.

So listen to your body, find something that keeps you coming back for more, and most importantly, have fun.