Why we do what we do. A look at motivation for excercise.

We have the privilege of meeting some wonderful people on a daily basis. Some are young, some old. Some are a little bit chubby, some skinny, some are fit, and some are not. What they all have in common is a love of swimming, biking, running or other forms of exercise.

This begs the question, why do we do what we do? As I attempt to answer this, it is important to understand that this list is not definitive, and so you are more than welcome to comment and add some ideas.

1. Some train to lose weight.
We have just got through the festive season, and many are looking at their scales and shaking their heads. Yip, it is time to don the running shoes.

2. Some train as a way of undoing the effects of 21st century work patterns.
Most of us sit way too much. The knowledge based economy means that too much time is spent staring at a computer screen, just like you are doing now. Getting up and moving feels good, it’s what your body calls for.

3. Some train because they have a need for adventure.
One of the best ways to start or end a day is to do something that most haven’t done. If you spot someone in the office with a bit of a spring in their step it might be that they have started their day differently.

4. Some train to experience endorphin rushes.
Your body produces chemicals that help with pain reduction. These chemicals are released as you train and bring on a feeling of well being. By the way, these drugs are legal and healthy. Enjoy your daily dose of endorphins.

5. Some do it for the social aspect, and some for the solitary nature of training.
On my part I enjoy both. I enjoy training with people, the humour, the chats, the joint sense of achievement. I also love training on my own. It’s a chance to catch up with myself- to participate more fully with the inner conversation that I have with myself.

6. Some do it for the competition.
These people typically pitch up at all the races and try their best for that pb or personal best. They scan the results as they get published to see how well done they have done.

7. Some love using the equipment associated with swimming, biking and running.
They study things like socks, shoes, shocks, shorts and other stuff.

8. Some do it because life is short, and they want to pack as much as possible into it. I have been a Springsteen fan all my life. In one of his songs he speaks of two types of people in his song, “Racing in the Street”,
“Some guys they just give up living
And start dying little by little, piece by piece
Some guys come home from work and wash up
And go racing in the street.”

Please feel free to join this conversation and add your thoughts.

Regards,

Mike Roscoe.