How I Finally Fixed My Relationship With Exercise

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Let’s be real: our relationship with exercise can be a rocky one, especially as we hit our 30s and beyond. Between busy schedules, self-doubt, and the ever-looming pressure of societal expectations, it’s easy to find ourselves at odds with our fitness journey. I’ve been there, and trust me, it doesn’t have to be that way. Here’s how I turned my struggle into a thriving relationship with exercise.

The Challenge: Breaking the Cycle of Negativity

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For many of us, exercise can feel like a chore, something we dread rather than enjoy. This negativity often builds up over time. I found myself caught in a cycle of guilt and obligation, thinking I had to push through workouts just to check a box.

The Wake-Up Call

It wasn’t until I experienced burnout that I realized this mindset wasn’t serving me. I was constantly tired, moody, and frustrated. I decided it was time to reassess my relationship with exercise. Here’s how I did it.

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Step 1: Reflect on Your “Why”

Discover Your Motivation

Before diving into workouts, take a moment to reflect on why you want to exercise. Is it to feel stronger? To de-stress? To connect with others? Understanding your “why” can reshape your approach.

#### Mini Checklist for Finding Your Why

• [ ] What activities make me feel good?
• [ ] Do I want to build strength, flexibility, or endurance?
• [ ] How do I feel after exercising, both mentally and physically?

Zara says: “Exercise should amplify your life, not complicate it.”

Step 2: Ditch the All-or-Nothing Mentality

Embrace the Gray Area

I used to believe that if I couldn’t do an hour of cardio or a full weightlifting session, it wasn’t worth it. This mindset set me up for failure. Instead, I started embracing shorter, more manageable workouts.

#### Quick Win Ideas

• 10-Minute Dance Party: Crank up your favorite playlist and dance it out.
• 15-Minute Walk: Grab a friend and take a brisk walk around the neighborhood.
• 5-Minute Stretch: Start or end your day with a quick stretch routine.

The Power of Small Changes

Progress doesn’t always mean big leaps; sometimes, it’s about those tiny, consistent changes that add up.

Step 3: Find Your Joy in Movement

Explore Different Forms of Exercise

Exercise doesn’t have to be a slog. Experiment with various activities to find what you truly enjoy.

#### Fun Options to Try

• Yoga: Great for relaxation and flexibility.
• Martial Arts: Builds strength and confidence while providing a fun challenge.
• Dance Classes: From Zumba to hip-hop, these classes can lift your spirits.

Focus on the Experience

When I shifted my focus from calorie burn to enjoyment, everything changed. I started to notice how much better I felt after a fun class or a brisk walk outside.

Step 4: Create a Supportive Environment

Accountability Partners

Having someone to share your journey with can be a game-changer. Find a workout buddy or join a class to create a sense of community.

#### Tips for Building Your Support System

• Join local fitness groups or clubs.
• Attend classes with friends.
• Use social media to share your goals and progress.

Positive Reinforcement

Celebrate your wins, no matter how small. Acknowledge your efforts and reward yourself in a way that feels good.

Step 5: Set Realistic Goals

SMART Goals

Setting achievable goals can help you stay motivated without the pressure of perfection. Use the SMART framework—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound.

#### Example of a SMART Goal

• Instead of “I want to lose weight,” try “I will walk for 30 minutes three times a week for the next month.”

Adjust Goals as Needed

Life happens! If you miss a workout or two, don’t beat yourself up. Adjust your goals to fit your current lifestyle and commitments.

Step 6: Prioritize Recovery

Listen to Your Body

Sometimes the best thing you can do for your fitness is to rest. Recognize when your body needs a break, and don’t hesitate to take it.

#### Signs You Need Recovery

• Fatigue that doesn’t go away
• Persistent soreness
• Decreased motivation

Incorporate Active Recovery

Recovery doesn’t mean complete inactivity. Engage in gentle movements like stretching, walking, or yoga to keep your body engaged without overexerting it.

Step 7: Reassess Regularly

Check-In with Yourself

Every few weeks, take time to reflect on your progress and feelings towards exercise. Are you still enjoying it? Do you need to make changes?

#### Questions to Consider

• What have I enjoyed the most lately?
• Am I feeling energized or drained after workouts?
• What new activities can I try to keep things fresh?

Adjust for Growth

As you evolve, so should your exercise routine. Stay open to change and growth, allowing your fitness journey to reflect the dynamic nature of your life.

Conclusion: Your Journey is Unique

Fixing my relationship with exercise wasn’t an overnight transformation. It took time, patience, and a willingness to be real with myself. Remember, there is no one-size-fits-all approach to fitness, especially for women 30+. What works for you might not work for someone else.

Final Thoughts

• Embrace the process.
• Focus on joy, not obligation.
• Surround yourself with positivity.

With these principles in mind, you can cultivate a healthy, thriving relationship with exercise that lasts a lifetime. Start today, and remember: it’s okay to be a work in progress. You’ve got this!

Important: Educational only, not medical advice. Supplements don’t diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent diseases. Talk to your provider before changes to diet, exercise, or supplements.