What's Your Exercise Personality?

Find Your Match

By Yardley Montague, UVA Intramural-Recreational Sports, Fitness Coordinator and Group Exercise Instructor

Do you see exercise as a time for solitude in your crazy day? Or do you crave fun and a little socializing from your workout? Every person is different and everyone craves something a little different from his or her workout. No matter what you’re looking for in an exercise program, there are options that will be both fun and effective.

Are You Independent?

If you prefer to exercise alone, you run the risk of always sticking to the same machines and routine and could reach an exercise plateau or burn out. Try something out of your comfort zone and attend a group exercise class. Formats such as cycle, kickboxing and strength classes provide a challenging, individual workout as well as motivation from the instructor plus high-intensity tunes!

Are You Outgoing?

If you crave an aspect of socializing while you exercise, attend a group exercise class or sign up for some personal or small group training sessions. You can feed your social butterfly side but keep your focus on your workout while learning new moves. Because working out with your friends can easily turn into more of a gabfest than a sweat session, a trainer or instructor will make sure that you get a quality workout along with a social connection. 

Are You Competitive?

Your type tends to choose pounding the pavement for miles, or going to rigorous exercise classes. But keep in mind that our bodies welcome the physical and mental benefits that come from yoga. Yoga classes are great workouts that can blend cardiovascular work with all-over resistance training using your own body weight. Not to mention the meditative work that helps lower blood pressure and anxiety. There are many types of yoga classes so find one that you enjoy and remember to tune into your own body and your practice rather than trying to outdo the person on the mat next to yours.

Are You Unmotivated?

If you have a hard time getting moving on your own, group exercise classes are the place for you. Choose a high-energy format that combines working out with having fun. This will make exercise something you enjoy. A class such as dance, step or kickboxing is a great way to get moving and having fun with friends at the same time! Great music, imaginative moves and energetic instructors will help you move your way to less stress and a healthier body.

Are You Short on Time?

Many people have a hard time fitting an hour-long workout into their busy day. If this sounds like you, aim to do three 10- to 20-minute mini-workouts 3 to 5 days a week. Then try to schedule a longer exercise session on the weekend. For your mini-workouts, try jumping rope, running stairs or doing circuits to get your heart rate up and your muscles working at the same time. During the weekend, arrange to meet friends for a tennis match or a long bike ride to increase your endurance. 

No matter what your personality, remember to mix up your workouts to prevent boredom or reaching a plateau in your fitness. Most importantly, have fun!

 Source: Health magazine March 2011