Did you ever consider designing your workout to match your personality? You think the author of this concept has too much time on his hands? I agree with you. But interesting, nontheless.
“Fine-tuning your workout based on your personal tendencies can help you adhere to a program, and consistency is the foundation for getting fit,” says Richard Cotton, a spokesman for the American Council on Exercise and cheif exercise physiologist at myexerciseplan.com (a pretty cool site).
Here is a summary of his four exercise types that I stole from “Vitality,” the mailing from that company I vented about back in “PayFirst CareLast.”
Type 1: The Introverted Exerciser (Eric)
The introverted exerciser prefers privacy. You like exercising by yourself and using fitness time to collect your thoughts. Activities you may enjoy include walking and jogging by yourself or using your gym’s weight machines. Although such self-reliance provides a safe haven, there’s a potential downside.
“If you exercise only on your own, you can find yourself exercising inconsistently because you’re not accountable to anyone but yourself,” says Mr. Cotton.
Type 2: The Extroverted Exerciser (Annoying)
The extrovert gets exercise motivation from others. You need the support and camaraderie of other exercisers, and being accountable to them helps you meet your goals. You lke to sign up for fitness classes and work out with others.
You sometimes need some time alone, though, and exercising by yourself is a great way to get it.
Type 3: The Spiritually Inclined Exerciser (You?)
If you feel a reverent connection to the universe, you may enjoy meditative activities, such as yoga and tai chi.
Try to balance your fitness routine with components that might be missing, such as aerobic exercise or strength training.
Type 4: The Event-Oriented Exerciser (Me)
You get motivated to exercise when you’re preparing for a big event. Marathons, weddings and reunions are what get you going. Unfortunately, once the event has passed, your motivation may vanish.
Since goals are the foundation of your motivation, never be without one (here I go: video blogging–the webcam adds ten pounds).