Why Don't People Exercise More Often When It Is Better for Them?

Despite the well-known health benefits, many people still avoid regular exercise. To understand this phenomenon, we need to explore the historical context and psychological factors behind this behavior.

Historical Context

Before the Industrial Revolution, people engaged in physical activity as a necessity of daily life. Fetching water, walking up stairs, and performing manual labor were part of their routine. However, the advent of technology like elevators, escalators, and automobiles has made it easier for people to live and work without physical exertion. As a result, exercise has become a luxury rather than a necessity, requiring people to make a conscious effort to stay active.

Motivational Challenges

It is paradoxical that while being healthy is a fundamental need, it often feels like an additional chore rather than a rewarding activity. Doctors and health professionals sometimes prescribe exercise as orders, which can make it feel mandatory and burdensome. As Dr. Lieberman explains, this can be less effective:

“It’s a fundamental instinct to avoid physical activity when it’s neither necessary nor rewarding.”

For many, the belief that exercise is not enjoyable can also be a significant barrier. Memories of trying to stay fit without success or feeling inadequate compared to others in a fitness center can compound this issue. As Dr. Beth Frates from Harvard Medical School notes:

“Most of us probably have memories of gym class not being picked for a team or being in a fitness center that's filled with in-shape people. As a result, the majority don't feel excited.”

Incorporating Enjoyment into Exercise

One way to overcome the motivational challenges is to redefine exercise in a more positive and enjoyable way. Dr. Lieberman and Dr. Frates suggest that exercise should be fun rather than a tedious task:

“Helping people experience and enjoy the release of endorphins and the increase in dopamine and serotonin that accompany exercise is key.”

This approach involves finding activities that are enjoyable and incorporating them into one's routine. Whether it's dancing, hiking, cycling, or playing sports, the key is to make exercise a pleasurable experience rather than a dreaded chore.

Setting Realistic Goals

In addition to redefining exercise as enjoyable, setting realistic and achievable goals can also boost motivation. It’s important to start small and gradually build up activity levels. Dr. Lieberman emphasizes the importance of starting with small, manageable steps:

“An overarching obstacle is that exercise tends to get packaged as only counting if it includes certain clothes, gadgets, trainers, or even a gym. Those can help but they’re not required.”

By focusing on activities that bring joy and making exercise a part of one's daily routine, people are more likely to stick with it in the long term. This approach not only promotes physical health but also mental well-being, as exercise releases endorphins that can boost mood and reduce stress.

Conclusion

Exercise is a powerful tool for improving health and well-being, yet many people still struggle to make it a regular part of their lives. By understanding the historical context and psychological barriers to exercise, and by redefining exercise as a fun and pleasurable activity, people can overcome these challenges and reap the benefits of a more active lifestyle.