You’re unique, so make your fitness fit your style.

People often ask me what’s the best exercise? My response is, whatever you like to do and will do. People are surprised as they want to know is it walking, aerobics, swimming for example. Well, if it’s your favorite or something you like to do, isn’t it better than forcing yourself to do something you don’t enjoy or that hurts you? In this one size fits most culture that is splashed on Instagram, Glamour, Pinterest, or Snapchat – we need to be cognizant that those are suggestions and snapshots of one person’s opinion. “Opinions are like butt-holes”, my husband says, “we all have one.”

I recently read an interesting excerpt from a book by Michelle May. Michelle states that we have a personality when it comes to exercise. She has a great 12 question test I wanted to share with you from her book, Eat What You Love, Love What You Eat with Diabetes. She gives the following quiz in Chapter 24: Mindful Movement.

“To identify your unique exercise personality traits, circle the answers below that best describe you. Then use the Action Steps to help you decide what types of physical activity you’re most likely to enjoy and stick with.” – Michelle May

1. My main motivation for exercising is to:

a. look better

b. feel better

c. be healthier

d. lose weight

e. other:

2. I am motivated by rewards like:

a. visual graphs and numbers

b. money or prizes

c. intangibles like more energy or better sleep

Action Steps for questions 1 and 2: Write your fitness goals using positive, powerful, measurable terms to keep yourself focused and inspired. Be specific about the results you want and the rewards you’ll get when you achieve your goals.

3. Time for exercise:

a. is not a problem

b. is a challenge but can be arranged when I make it a priority

d. is last on my list

4. I’d exercise more if it wasn’t for:

a. the time it takes to get to the gym

b. family commitments

c. work

d. the cost of a gym or equipment

5. I stay on track best when:

a. I set a goal to work out most days of the week but stay flexible about when

b. I write my workout schedule in my appointment calendar

c. I know someone else is expecting me to be there

6. When I decide to do something:

a. I have a hard time getting started

b. I stick with it until it gets hard

c. I make it happen no matter what

Action Steps for questions 3, 4, 5, and 6: Making the commitment to invest your time, money, and energy in becoming more active is never easy. When you anticipate possible challenges, you can plan to work around them. For example, if you’re concerned about taking time away from your family you could involve them in your workouts, exercise during your workday, or decide that the time is worth it because you’re healthier and less stressed.

7. I feel most energetic and alert in the:

a. morning

b. afternoon

c. evening

8. In the past, exercise has worked best:

a. when I do it early in the day before other things get in my way

b. when I do it at work during my breaks or lunch hour

c. when I stop in at the gym on my way home, so I don’t have to go out again

d. when I do it after dinner to unwind or when I have help with the kids

Action Steps: Plan your workouts during your peak energy times and times that are most convenient.

9. I need:

a. to exercise at my own pace

b. the support of a friend or partner

c. the accountability of a class or lesson

d. to be pushed by a trainer or teacher

10. I love to be:

a. at home

b. outdoors

c. in an exercise environment

Action Steps for questions 7, 8, 9, and 10 If you enjoy being at home or alone, use videos, a home gym, or try activities like walking or biking. If you enjoy being with another person, invite someone to walk, hike, play tennis or go to the gym with you. If you socialize while you exercise, consider joining a sports team, or signing up for a class at church or work. If you’re more of an outdoors-type, you’ll enjoy walking, hiking, bike riding, or sports. If you need a designated exercise space join a gym or studio. Hire a personal trainer (at home or at the gym) for guidance or accountability.

11. I really like:

a. technical gadgets and toys

b. a real physical workout so I don’t have to think about anything

c. creative or artistic expression

12. When it comes to competition,

a. it makes me feel stressed

b. I like to challenge myself

c. a little is healthy and fun

d. I am very competitive

Action Steps for questions 11 and 12: There are so many different forms of physical activity that the challenge is finding several that suit your preferences. For example, if you’re a gadget guru, you might like a fancy pedometer, computer programs, or gyms equipped with high-tech monitors on all the machines. If you enjoy artistic expression, try yoga or dance. If you thrive on competition, look for team sports and competitive races, or challenge competitive friends to play racquetball or tennis. If you enjoy challenging yourself, set goals and track your progress. If you don’t like competition, but like to be with others, look for classes and gyms with a supportive environment.

So, what’s the point? The best exercise is the one you like, love or will do.

Here’s a link to another exercise personality test.

Here’s a link to a downloadable fitness personality quiz.

Exercise Personality