The Science of Enjoyment
The long-held belief that certain types of exercise are universally “best” is being challenged by a growing body of evidence. A comprehensive review of 71 different studies has concluded that when it comes to reaping the rewards of physical activity,
personal preference is a powerful factor. The core finding is simple yet revolutionary: people are far more likely to stick with an exercise program if they actually enjoy it. This may sound obvious, but it directly contradicts the idea that you must suffer through punishing workouts to see results. The review suggests that adherence—the ability to consistently show up—is the most critical component of a successful fitness journey, and enjoyment is the key that unlocks it.
What Does This Mean for You?
This research gives you permission to stop forcing yourself to run if you despise running, or to skip the high-intensity class that leaves you feeling defeated. Instead, you can focus on finding activities that make you feel good. The benefits of exercise—from improved cardiovascular health to stronger muscles and better mental well-being—are linked to consistency. If you look forward to your workout, you are more likely to make it a regular habit. Whether it’s dancing, swimming, hiking, yoga, or team sports, the activity that gets you moving regularly is the one that will deliver the best long-term results for your health.
Dispelling the 'Best' Exercise Myth
For years, fitness trends have come and go, each claiming to be the ultimate solution. From HIIT to CrossFit to Pilates, the options can be overwhelming. While each format has its unique benefits, this new perspective suggests there is no single “best” exercise for everyone. In fact, a recent study looking at personality traits found that extroverts often prefer high-intensity workouts, while those who are more anxious might enjoy a solo yoga session at home. The takeaway is that your psychological makeup can influence what type of movement feels rewarding. Rather than chasing the trend of the moment, you can build a sustainable routine by aligning your workouts with your personality and preferences.
How to Build Your Perfect Routine
So how do you put this into practice? Start by exploring. Try a variety of activities to see what sparks your interest. Think about what you enjoyed as a child—was it riding a bike, playing a sport, or just running around outside? Create a list of potential activities, from joining a local hiking group to trying an online dance class. Don’t be afraid to mix and match. A sustainable routine might include two days of brisk walking, a weekend bike ride, and one session of strength training using videos at home. The goal is to create a colourful palette of movement that keeps you engaged and motivated.
Goals Still Matter
While enjoyment is a crucial piece of the puzzle, it is also important to consider your specific fitness goals. If you want to run a marathon, you will eventually have to run. If your goal is to build significant muscle mass, strength training is non-negotiable. However, the principle of preference still applies. You can choose a strength training program you find engaging or join a running club to make the process more social and fun. The key is to find the most enjoyable path to your specific destination. Intensity and volume are still important for progress, but studies show that people often work just as hard, if not harder, when they are doing something they love.
