Health and Fitness : No Workout on Purpose?

Rachel Wall

For some people, making a commitment to engage in physical activity is unheard of. Their counterparts, on the other hand, can’t wait for their next sweat-laden encounter. Why the difference? Scientists are curious about the different attitudes between these two groups. One finding so far: how people interpret their body’s sensations during and after exercise plays a major role in whether they enjoy it and make it a habit. Physical sensations of exertion or fatigue, such as increases in body temperature, also can influence whether they stick with an exercise routine. One group views this as enjoyable while the other group sees this as uncomfortable. Researchers at Iowa State University found that many individuals inaccurately self-assess their physical fitness and push beyond their limits. This causes pain and dislike of the physical activity. The researchers suggest more positive experiences over time are needed to increase physical activity. Factors than can help boost the motivation to move include: • how competent a person feels performing the activity • whether the activity involves listening to music • whether the activity is in an aesthetically pleasing environment • whether the person feels he or she has some control or choice in the matter, and • whether the activity fosters an ability to belong. --- (e-mail: wallr@iastate.edu, website: http://www.extension.iastate.edu/families/) and phone: 319-337-2145)