Fall in Love with Exercise!

Valentine’s Day is all about love, making it the perfect time to strengthen the relationship you have with your own health. Exercise does not have to feel like a chore or punishment. When approached with the right mindset, it can become something you enjoy and look forward to. This Valentine’s season, it is time to fall in love with movement.

Redefine What Exercise Means

Exercise does not have to look like gyms, treadmills, or intense workouts. It is any movement that helps your body feel stronger, more energized, and healthier. Walking the dog, stretching in the morning, dancing in your kitchen, or gardening all count. When you stop labeling movement as “exercise,” it can become easier to stay active.

Choose What Sparks Joy

You are more likely to stick with activities you enjoy. The best exercise is one you will actually do consistently. If running is not your thing, skip it.  Instead, try:

• Walking with a friend
• Breaking your personal records for amount you can lift
• Yoga or stretching
• Swimming or cycling
• Group fitness or guided classes

Make It a Date

Just like any relationship, consistency matters. Schedule movement into your week and treat it like an important appointment. You can even turn it into a social or self-care date and make it an intentional time.

Focus on How It Makes You Feel

Rather than fixating on calories or appearance, pay attention to the benefits you feel. When movement feels good, motivation naturally follows. Look for:

• Increased energy
• Better mood
• Reduced stress
• Improved strength 
• Less fear of falling
• Less pain and stiffness

Build a Lasting Relationship With Exercise

Falling in love with exercise does not happen overnight. It grows through patience, variety, and consistency. When movement supports your lifestyle instead of competing with it, it becomes something you want to do, not something you feel forced to do. This season, show your body some love. Move in ways that make you feel strong, confident, and energized. Find a wingman for your relationship with exercise from personal training or physical therapy for a stronger, lasting bond.

Reference:

1. Singh B, Murphy A, Maher C, Smith AE. Time to Form a Habit: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Health Behaviour Habit Formation and Its Determinants. Healthcare (Basel). 2024;12(23):2488. Published 2024 Dec 9. doi:10.3390/healthcare12232488