Evaluating Joyful Movement: tools to deepen exercise satisfaction
Is your current exercise routine truly improving your well-being, including your body, mood, mind, and relationships? Let’s take a closer look. Review the statements below and determine which ones match your experience over the past month, or any recent period of consistent exercise. There are no right or wrong answers; we're simply gathering information! These markers can help you assess your current satisfaction, but remember that everyone’s journey is unique, and some statements may not align with your personal exercise goals. Also note, this is a fluid self-check-in, not a scorecard. So, let’s explore! On a separate sheet of paper or in your phone, read each statement and label whether it applies to you “rarely, often, or never.”
Outlook and Motivation: I look forward to my exercise sessions & feel present while working out. I’ve found tools or support systems that help me start or return to movement even when I don’t feel like it, in order to move toward clear, long term goals with exercise.
Self-Acceptance: it’s rare that I find myself comparing my abilities or body to others. I have an appreciation for my unique strengths. I practice healthy coping skills in the face of adversity or when my body is not meeting expectations.
Community Focus: My workout peers value growth, healthy competition that uplifts all (when relevant), and community support. I take regular action to contribute to my community, in ways that suit my financial & personal means, by volunteering, teaching, donating, etc. Sometimes this means: supporting a friend, sharing a kind comment online, or showing up in your own way.
Social Connection: My workout routine supports & enhances quality time with others. I do not feel trapped by my exercise routine.
Representation and Diversity: I follow athletes, coaches, and/or influencers who promote body diversity and don’t focus on weight, BMI, or appearance as primary indicators of health & fitness.
Intrinsic Health: I measure my health through internal indicators (like bloodwork & relevant tests through a trusted physician) and my own lived experience, not external appearance or judgments from others.
Comfort in Clothing: I wear workout attire that makes me feel strong, capable and joyful! My workout environment feels sensory-safe and comfortable for me.
Rest and Recovery: I feel confident taking rest days & understand their importance in my overall fitness journey.
Motivation Strategies: I manage natural dips in exercise motivation and handle setbacks effectively.
Self-Expression: I view exercise as meaningful self-expression rather than a task.
Different seasons of life affect how many of these statements apply to you. There could be opportunities for growth here! Consider swapping that pilates class you’re just not into for a new workout class that sounds exciting & fun. Perhaps that cute sports bra is uncomfortable and it’s time to invest in a new piece of exercise gear that suits your style and movement needs. Try watching some inspiring athletic content (as a launching point, I’d recommend a brief online search into athletic/life role models like Olympians Ilona Maher & Simone Biles, or the ultra runner Callie Vinson). You might also explore new communities, either online or locally, that emphasize enjoying the process of exercise, over fixating on appearance goals. Consider revisiting this check-in every few weeks or months. You might notice shifts in what brings you joy or clarity about what’s no longer working.
And, if you’re seeking further support to develop long-term joy with exercise, check out Deeper Dive coaching (we cover all sorts of topics like this in coaching) or shoot your questions my way!
