Workouts can be tough, and sometimes it’s difficult to stick to a consistent routine. However, the problem might not be you — it might be your choice of workout.
Fitness isn’t just about physical demands — it’s about matching your individual personality, energy and nervous system needs. Besides the workout itself, the environment in which it’s happening is a major factor on whether or not you’ll stick to it long-term. Finding a workout type that nourishes your innate needs and matches the way you feel that day will improve adherence.
The best workout is the one you’ll do. The worst workout is the one that didn’t happen.
FOR THE INTROVERT: RECHARGING THROUGH FOCUS AND SOLITUDE
Introverts recharge their batteries by time spent alone in quiet reflection. Workouts can be a great time to turn the focus inward and take a step away from the world. Introverts might enjoy workouts that involve a predictable environment, minimal talking, and practices that feel meditative, introspective or require mental focus.
Good options for introverts:
Yoga, solo strength training, swimming, walking, hiking, jogging, pilates, at-home workouts, solo sports
FOR THE EXTROVERT: RECHARGING THROUGH ENERGY AND COMMUNITY
Extroverts recharge through mental stimulation and interacting with other people. They often thrive on novelty, loud music, intensity, competition and accountability. Group settings are a place where extroverts often thrive.
Good options for extroverts:
Team sports, CrossFit, running clubs, cycling groups, dance-based workouts, any group-based fitness classes
FOR THE AMBIVERT: HAVE IT BOTH WAYS
Ambiverts are those who can be comfortable alone and with others and recharge both ways, depending on how they feel that day. They tend to like options and flexibility and a mixture of both structure and freedom. Ambiverts do best when they can adapt their workouts to their mood, schedule or stress level.
Good options for ambiverts:
Personal training, small-group training, hybrid programs (combination of gym and home-based workouts), boutique studio classes
HOW TO FIND THE PERFECT FIT
To assess whether a particular type of workout is working for (or against) you, ask yourself the following questions:
- Do I leave this workout feeling energized or depleted?
- Am I more motivated by music and people or quiet and control?
- Do I dread the environment or just the physical effort?
- Would I do this even if no one was watching?
Your answers to these questions will help steer you in the right direction to finding a workout that best suits your unique needs. Just because a fitness regimen is trendy doesn’t mean it’s the right fit for you. Play around with different options until you find what works best for you. You don’t have to settle on one workout — the answer could be a combination of multiple types of activities.
Click here to take a quick quiz to view what your workout personality is.
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