Your Brain on Fitness

So, what’s the key to genuinely developing a positive relationship with exercise? There are two perspectives: the scientific and the anecdotal. Let's start with the neuroscience.

Neuroscience can be complex, but the principles relevant to our discussion are straightforward. Our brains adapt consistently in two key ways:

1. Adaptation to Experience

   Our brains are in a constant state of learning and adapting based on our experiences. This neuroplasticity means that any brain—whether of a toddler or a centenarian—can be reshaped by new experiences. If a brain goes through something, it learns from it.

2. Pursuit of Pleasure

   When our brains recognize what we enjoy or dislike, they create mental shortcuts for future reference. Our emotional responses to various experiences are stored in the brain, helping us identify what brings joy or poses danger. This emotional tagging can be thought of as a “thought-file.”

For example, if you see a bowl of Swedish Fish, you may immediately recall the joy they bring, even if you encounter a less-than-favorable batch. The positive experiences will override the negative ones, solidifying your belief that they are delicious.

The original tweet likely reflects a long-standing thought-file that equates exercise with suffering. If she ever enjoyed a workout—say, dancing at a club—her brain might categorize that experience separately, as “PARTYING WITH FRIENDS = FUN,” rather than associating it with exercise.

To shift this mindset, she needs to create a new thought-file: one that associates exercise with enjoyment.

Changing Your Thought Patterns

Consciously altering these subconscious associations can be challenging but achievable through deliberate effort. The prefrontal cortex is responsible for our conscious decisions, and by introducing positive experiences into our lives, we can reshape our subconscious attitudes.

For our Twitter user, the goal is to form a new thought-file that states EXERCISE = FUN, which must be as potent as her existing thought-file of EXERCISE = DEATH. This process requires self-reflection and a willingness to see exercise in a different light.

Consider her experience dancing with friends. Initially, she might dismiss it as unsustainable, but by reflecting on what made it enjoyable—like the music, the camaraderie, or the freedom of movement—she can discover parallels in fitness activities.

Many find that recognizing these connections just a few times can alter their motivation. Others may need more repetition, but eventually, the brain will seek out what it enjoys.

Overcoming Fear and Finding Enjoyment

I've seen gym attendees observe my classes for years before they felt comfortable participating. They transitioned from thinking MIA'S CLASS = SCARY to MIA'S CLASS = INTRIGUING, enabling them to finally take the plunge.

I genuinely believe everyone can find a form of fitness they enjoy. The common misconception is that exercise is limited to monotonous activities like using an elliptical or lifting weights. In reality, any movement counts as fitness, making it easier to find an enjoyable routine without needing traditional equipment.

Now, let’s discuss actionable steps for cultivating a love for exercise:

1. Fake It Until You Make It

   Yes, this cliché exists for a reason. To build new fitness habits, you might have to adopt a confident demeanor. New workout clothes can help; they don’t need to be fancy, just something you feel good wearing.

2. Document Your Goals

   Simply thinking about creating an exercise habit isn’t enough; you must write it down. The act of writing reinforces your intentions and adds accountability. Sharing your goals with friends can also boost your commitment.

3. Visualize Your Success

   If you see yourself as someone who exercises regularly, you’re more likely to make it a reality. This self-image is integral; shifting from "I hate exercise" to "I am someone who enjoys movement" can transform your motivation.

As you work toward these goals, acknowledge your progress. Your brain will adjust, and as you engage in new experiences, you'll reshape your perception of exercise.

To summarize, self-reflection is crucial. Seek enjoyment in the movements you're already doing and take note of your accomplishments, no matter how small. By doing so, you will find that you are already on your way to becoming someone who loves fitness.

Here’s a video titled "How I ACCIDENTALLY Learned To LOVE EXERCISE" that details a personal journey to finding joy in fitness.

Check out this inspiring video, "How I Fell in Love with Exercise (and How You Can Too!)" for more insights on transforming your relationship with fitness.