Exercise. You know how it goes. You have an epiphany and make up your mind that this time you are going to stick with an exercise program. The first week goes great…so does the second. Then the third week blues kick in and by week 4 that motivation you felt in the beginning has moved to the couch. We have all been there.

Just recently, researchers have found that people are much more successful in sticking to an exercise regime if it matches their personalities. To stay motivated, you should go with whatever "moves you". The Physician and Sports Medicine edition of December 2004 identifies specific activities that correspond with different personalities. Let us take a look and find out what your type is!

If you: Love to compete

Try: Activities with a competitive edge - team sports, tennis, volleyball, golf.

If you: Like to take risks

Try: Activities that appeal to your adventurous spirit…mountain climbing, cross-country skiing.

If you: Are strong, assertive, and aggressive

Try: Activities that allow you to release tons of energ - martial arts, power weight lifting, mountain biking.

If you: Are motivated by excitement and fun

Try: Group activities…dance classes, aerobics, skiing, and team sports.

If you: Enjoy mental focus

Try: Activities that allow you to concentrat - yoga, Pilates, martial arts.

If you: Like to socialize

Try: Activities that allow you to interact with people - golf, join a gym, team sports.

If you: Enjoy surprises and spontaneity

Try: Inpredictable activities - racquet sports, dancing, outdoor hiking.

If you: Are introspective and enjoy solitude

Try: Activities that can be done alone - running, walking, yoga, swimming laps.

If you: Like a sense of routine and control

Try: Structured activities - step machine, tai chi, weight lifting.

Interesting! So now that we have some ideas, let's get moving and make it to week 5, 6, 7....

Yours in healthy living,

Colleen Palati
colleen@healthyrevelations.com
9217 Douglas Fir Drive
Pittsburgh, PA 15239