Exercise tips: Matching your exercise routine to your personality might be the secret to getting fit, staying active, and feeling less stressed, says study from the University College London. Here’s how.
There Is No One-Size-Fits-All We all know that exercise, like food habits, isn’t one-size-fits-all. Once you stop forcing yourself into workouts you hate and start picking ones that match your personality, staying active may not feel like a chore anymore. It then becomes easy to slip into your favourite workout clothes and enjoy the exercise (Images: Canva)
Here’s what study says A study from University College London, featured in Frontiers in Psychology, found that when people tailor their workouts to their personality, they feel less stressed and more motivated. In short, you don’t need to change yourself, you just need to change your workout style to suit your inner wiring.
The restless go-getter Are you the kind who loves a challenge, gets a kick out of fast-paced action, and doesn’t mind a bit of healthy competition? Then high-energy workouts like HIIT, spin classes or circuit bootcamps will totally speak your language. They’ll give you that satisfying burn and keep your heart racing in all the right ways.
The outgoing and social Extroverts, listen up. You obviously are comfortable around people, energy and loud music, right? So why force yourself onto a lonely treadmill? Group workouts with upbeat vibes, like dance fitness or Zumba, are basically your version of a party disguised as exercise. The more, the merrier.
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The peace loving introvert Some of you may get flustered in busy spaces. If this feels familiar, skip the noisy gyms and opt for short, simple workouts you can do at home. A few stretches here, some yoga there, or even an easy indoor walk. It’s calming, quiet, and just for you, like a mini retreat without leaving your house.
The comfort seeker For those who crave calm and absolutely hate feeling rushed, low-key activities are your best bet. Try slow stretching, casual home workouts, or just swaying around to your favourite songs while no one’s watching. It’s exercise, but with zero pressure or judgement.
Those who stick to structure If you’re always prim-proper and organised (you know who you are, the list-makers, the planners), you probably already have some fitness routine tucked neatly into your schedule. You find comfort in structure, and honestly, your ability to stick with it is your superpower. Routine isn’t boring for you, it’s your happy place. So, keep it up.
The goal-chaser Do you have a check-list for everything? If ticking off goals gives you a boost, you’ll love fitness programmes that let you track progress. Apps, trackers, step counts, lifting goals, you download it, you try it, and you’ll ace it. You thrive on seeing results in black and white.
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The people person If you’re warm-hearted, social, and love connecting with others, look for workouts that bring people together. Yoga classes, weekend dance sessions, charity walks, mini marathon, anything that blends movement with community will feel rewarding for both your heart and your health.
The easily bored Adventure enthusiasts, take note, you’re not meant to stick to the same boring workout every week. Try new things, mix exercises that match your mood. One day it’s hiking, another it’s kickboxing or salsa. You’ll love the thrill of experimenting, and your body will thank you for all the variety.
Namita S Kalla is a senior journalist who writes about different aspects of modern life that include lifestyle, health, fashion, beauty, and entertainment.
