06/19/2015
Do you love or hate exercise?
I used to hate exercise, because I felt like I had to do it. I grew up in a family of fit people, and my parents were always trying to get me to move. I'd rather be reading a book.
When I went to college, my health went way downhill because I could do whatever I want. No one to make me exercise. But I truly felt awful after a while. I even left for a semester because I was making myself so sick. I had anxiety and depression and low thyroid. I was falling apart.
I recovered in my time off, and then I decided to just exercise for myself, because I could. And do whatever felt good to me. I slowly started running just because I wanted to see if I could do it. My dad was a runner, but I kept my running a secret for a long time, just because I didn't want to feel pressured to do it!
I got into long-distance cycling for a while because of a boyfriend. We did an AIDS ride from NYC to Boston. It felt amazing to realize how strong I was, how much my body could do, and how much I was actually capable of doing if I just gave myself the space to explore what's possible.
A friend asked if I wanted to do a triathlon with her. I got really into the training - would train twice a day. It was tough. Really too much exercise, and I was constantly cranky. But it showed me another side of my resilience and determination.
Now when I exercise, I do it because I know what I'm made of. It feels good to tap into my strength and do a little more. Just because I can. Because I have this one body that can do so much. It's not about becoming a certain size or weight. It's about what I can do as a strong, fit woman, just because.
What is your WHY for exercising? What is your motivation for moving?
And if you hate exercising, why do you hate it? Let me know in the comments below.
