What Are Your Reasons To Exercise?

We all have our own reasons to exercise. While many people begin working out to improve their appearance, those that do it for deeper reasons are more likely to maintain their new workout regimen. Working out to reduce stress, to get some “me time”, or to feel better about yourself are all very good reasons. While doing it purely for weight loss might work temporarily, what happens when the weight is gone?

If we were to take a survey asking people their reasons to exercise, many of them would probably answer that they do it to look good, to fit in their clothes, or to achieve a very specific weight loss goal. Only those people who have been working out for a longer period of time really “get” that the full benefits of working out reach far beyond the physical. And those who are fairly new to fitness and realize all of the benefits, including those invisible to the naked eye, are likely to stay working out long after those physical goals are met.

Many people who have long since achieved their weight loss goals state their reasons to exercise are largely about stress management. The endorphins released in a strenuous workout session have the ability to make you feel better about things. As someone who works out regularly, I find myself getting incredibly grumpy when I miss several days of working out. There is no doubt in my mind that one of my biggest reasons for working out is my sanity!

For others, the reasons for exercise have to do with taking time for themselves. Having a little “me time” is something we all need, no matter how busy our schedules are. Taking 1 hour out of a busy day to honor your body and health can make a big difference in how you feel about yourself.

People’s reasons to exercise run the gamut from purely aesthetic to almost spiritual. Finding your own reasons to exercise is crucial in maintaining lifelong fitness.