Feeling like exercise is a chore? You're not alone! Many of us struggle to find the motivation to move, but what if there was a way to make fitness enjoyable, even addictive? Let's dive into how one woman, Stella Fava, turned her exercise aversion into a passion.
Stella, a Sydney resident, never considered herself an exercise enthusiast. She openly admitted, "I've never had much physical aptitude, and I've never enjoyed the feeling of being out of breath or the frustration of being the last one to finish." This feeling, shared by many, led her to avoid exercise for years. She convinced herself that a healthy diet and a naturally slim physique meant she didn't need to exercise. With a busy life juggling work and family, it was easy to justify skipping workouts.
But here's where it gets controversial... While the benefits of physical activity are scientifically proven, a staggering 78% of Australian adults aged 18-64 aren't getting enough exercise, according to the ABS 2022 National Health Survey.
So, what's stopping us? Dr. Ben Singh, a researcher at the University of South Australia, points to various factors. These include time constraints, psychological hurdles, financial costs, physical discomfort, and negative past experiences. However, the enjoyment factor plays a significant role.
"Estimates suggest that a substantial portion of adults report low enjoyment of exercise," Dr. Singh says. Older adults, women, and those with lower socioeconomic status often experience higher rates of inactivity. But this isn't limited to any specific group; anyone can dislike exercise.
Another key factor is the failure to experience pleasure from physical activity. Dr. Singh notes that this is the case for around 25% of Australians, which significantly impacts their adherence to exercise programs. Stella, for example, never felt those coveted endorphins.
But then, something changed. In February 2023, a friend introduced Stella to pickleball. She was immediately hooked.
"For the first time, I felt that rush, that elation, people talk about when they exercise. As I got a little better, I even started feeling competitive and wanted to improve," Stella recalls.
So, how can you find your pickleball? Dr. Gregore Iven Mielke from the University of Queensland suggests making exercise social, turning it into a way to connect with friends or family. He also recommends integrating exercise into your day, like walking or cycling to work, or scheduling it like a meeting.
Start small, he advises, with just 10 minutes a day or one session a week. Try new activities and avoid forcing yourself into something you dread. Set realistic goals and celebrate small wins.
If these strategies don't work, Dr. Dan van den Hoek from the University of the Sunshine Coast suggests "tricking" yourself. This could involve joining a sports team, using music or podcasts to distract from discomfort, or focusing on external stimuli like a scenic walk.
Stella's experience highlights a crucial point: exercise doesn't have to be a burden. It can be fun and fulfilling. Pickleball opened her eyes to the importance of fitness, especially for cardiovascular and bone health.
Now, a regular part of her week, Stella can't imagine her life without it. She's found a sport that allows her to be outdoors, move her body, enjoy friendly competition, and connect with a welcoming community. She's fitter, healthier, and happier.
What's your biggest challenge when it comes to exercise? Have you found a way to make fitness enjoyable? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
