A friend sent me a NYT article last week that discusses how some “hidden” motivators are what really keep people engaged in exercise. According to a motivational psychologist quoted in the article, the social and psychological benefits reaped from exercise are what increase adherance to a fitness program. When it comes to exercise encouragement goes a long way.
Some people learn this lesson early by participating in team sports in high school. But as an adult, they no longer have an obvious connection to a group of like-minded fitness enthusiasts. For me, finding this group was a significant part of my personal development. The women with me in the above photo were my teammates from Cambridge Sports Union, a running club to which I belonged when I moved to Boston nearly sight-unseen in 1998. The members of CSU became my friends. Our socializing centered around training runs, races, and the ever-present post-run brownie. By participating in CSU, I had a group of friends who shared my passion for running. Also, they challenged me to improve each and every time we put foot to pavement.
Even now in my personal fitness endeavors, I enjoy group classes. I like learning how to do new things and discovering how different activities challenge my body in different ways. I’ve recently taken some rowing classes, geeking out over the technique of a sport to which I’m totally green. I appreciate the programming done by the instructor which ensures a good workout. The encouragement and technical advice she gives during the class is also appreciated. Seeing familiar faces week after week builds camaraderie, knowing that we are all on a common quest for fitness. Sure, I’d still get a good workout if I was by myself, but it’s definitely uplifting to know I’m not working so hard all alone.
The idea of social and psychological motivators to exercise is also evident in my work as a personal trainer. I enjoy working with small groups to see how exercise, encouragement, and a little positive peer pressure motivate people to try new things. Whether it’s young girl scouts or a mixed-age neighborhood group, the community dynamic is strong.
You could find a workout buddy, join a team, or try a group class. I challenge you to find how having company along on your fitness journey can make the trip more enjoyable. Exercise, encouragement, and accountability are powerful motivators.
After all, there’s strength in numbers.
Good health and great happiness to you.
I really identiy with what you are saying here. When I was in law school, I joined an off-campus gym to get away from the pressure of school. The regulars in the 5:30 step classes (this was the 90’s!) were a huge source of support. They called me their little Ally McBeal, which made me proud, (remember, the 90’s) and as I started losing weight, their teasing made me give up my baggy t-shirts in favor or more fitted clothes. These days, I see half the moms in my town at the gym after school drop-off and I love it!
Your comment made me remember when I was in grad school, my cousin (who was still an undergrad) paid for me to take step aerobics classes with him. He wanted a way to meet fit women, but he didn’t want to go alone.