For many people, exercise is something they have to do or ought to do. It feels like a burden or a chore that hangs over them waiting to be completed. Some people talk themselves out of doing it altogether. Others toil away in a gym or pound the pavement running even though they don’t like it. It doesn’t take long before they quit. Or at least until they learn to dread their exercise sessions.

There are many reasons people may not find fun in exercise. According to a 2015 study published by BMC Public Health, it could be a lack of access to exercise facilities or a safe environment to exercise in. Others may not have the social support needed for them to exercise. Some people may be embarrassed to exercise in front of others. This may arise due to cultural reasons, which may affect women more than men, and being self-conscious about their appearance, as stated in a 2014 study published in Taylor & Francis. 

In another 2014 study published by the Journal of Public Health, adverse childhood experiences may also be a reason for not wanting to exercise. Even not getting the results one expects can deter people from continuing.

While these barriers are real, exercise itself can reduce these barriers. For example, exercise increases your self-esteem and may improve body satisfaction. It can also help people through trauma. The truth is that everyone has different responses and reactions to exercise, and that needs to be taken into consideration. That’s normal. All bodies are unique, and require personalised approaches to getting fitter. And nobody should force themselves to go to a gym, or buy expensive fitness gear, but finding what works for us, will help put the fun back into exercise.

 

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4 Ways To Make Exercise More Fun

 

Find a Personal Trainer You Resonate With

Making the gym more fun can be a game-changer, and a Personal Trainer (PT) can make all the difference. A PT isn't just there to push you harder; they're there to make your workouts enjoyable. They'll design a workout plan just for you, help you set and smash your goals, keep track of your progress, and cheer you on every step of the way. Plus, having someone to chat with between sets makes the time fly by. Unlike a gym buddy who might flake out, a PT is always there, keeping you committed and making sure you’re getting the most out of your workouts.

Working out with a PT can make your gym sessions something to look forward to. They bring consistency, showing up week after week, rain or shine. This regular support can make your workouts more rewarding and satisfying. Instead of dreading the gym, you’ll be excited to see the progress you’re making and the personal milestones you’re hitting. Celebrating your successes together, even the small ones, keeps you motivated and makes the whole experience much more enjoyable.

 

Related story: 5 Fun Workouts To Try At UR.Life Studio

 

Find a Gym Buddy 

Choosing a gym partner can make your workouts much more enjoyable. Having a friend with you adds a social element to your exercise routine, making it feel less like a chore and more like a fun activity. You can chat while you work out, share tips, and even have a little friendly competition to keep things interesting. For many, making a commitment with a friend is a motivator. Knowing that someone else is counting on you can also make it easier to stick to your routine. A gym buddy can give you that extra push to go to the gym, even on days when you don’t feel like it.

Having a gym partner can also improve your workouts. You can spot each other during weightlifting, which makes it safer and allows you to push yourself harder. Partners can help keep you motivated and on track with your fitness goals. They can provide encouragement when you’re struggling and celebrate your progress with you. Plus, you can learn from each other’s strengths and weaknesses. 

 

Related story:3 Exercises That Build Strong and Tones Thighs

Keep The Child in You Alive

Remember how much fun it was to fly a kite or throw a frisbee when you were a kid? Those activities were not just fun; they also kept you moving. The good news is, you can still do these things to make your exercise routine more enjoyable. Instead of dreading the treadmill or lifting weights, grab a kite and head to the park. Running around to keep the kite in the air gives you a good workout, and being outside is a bonus. It’s also a great way to spend time with friends or family while getting some exercise.

Throwing a frisbee is another fun way to stay active. Find a friend or a group and make a game out of it. Whether you’re casually tossing it back and forth or playing a game of ultimate frisbee, you’ll be moving and burning calories. The best part is, it doesn’t feel like exercise because you’re having fun. So, next time you’re thinking about skipping the gym, try these childhood activities instead. They remind you that staying active can be as simple and fun as playing like a kid again.

 

Related story: 20 Minutes Low-impact Bodyweight Exercises To Burn Fats

 

Track Progress and Reward Yourself

Seeing progress is one of the best ways to stay motivated. Many people quit the gym because they don’t see results quickly enough. When you can see the benefits and results of your training, it feels great and makes you enjoy your gym sessions more. You can add extra incentive by rewarding yourself. For many, having a healthy treat at the end of each exercise is a reward. For me, my favourite is mango chunks. For others, nice after-exercise shower gel works magically. Another gym enthusiast mentions, “If I go to the gym, I have a nice coffee afterward – an Americano, with a little skimmed milk. This works as an incentive for me.”

It’s also important to measure your long-term progress, not just week to week. Everyone has “off” days, but try to stay focused on the bigger picture and not get discouraged by small setbacks. Some people put money in a jar every time they exercise. “I promise myself a massage as a treat when the jar is full,” says Karan, another fitness enthusiast. Focusing on the benefits of exercising can also work. He continues “Knowing that it will keep you fit, and so more able to enjoy other things in life, is a good motivator for me.” If you notice that your progress has stalled for a few weeks, it might be a good idea to talk to a personal trainer. They can help you adjust your program or nutrition to get back on track.

 

Related story: Finding Joy Through Exercise

 

Need all your wellness solutions in one place? A whole new world awaits just a click away.

 

When you’re looking to take your exercise regime to the next level, head to UR.Life Studio. The premier destination for fitness in Hyderabad, UR.Life Studio offers customised fitness plans and more for your needs. Our team of celebrity trainers, certified nutritionists and experienced physiotherapists are here to help you unlock your full potential. 

Our two locations in Jubilee and Kavuri Hills in Hyderabad offer a swimming pool, gym, spa, rehabilitation centre and cafe to ensure you reach your health objectives. Our gym offers classes in aerobics, CrossFit, Zumba, and more. Come try our world-class gym and experience the difference for yourself.