Unlocking the Psychology of Exercise: How Emotional Triggers Impact Your Workout Motivation

The truth is, the struggle with exercise motivation is much deeper than it appears on the surface. For many, it's not just a question of laziness or procrastination; it's about confronting a specific set of triggers that make the journey complicated.

One of the least talked about, yet profoundly impactful, aspects of exercise is its ability to release stored trauma from the body. The act of moving can shake loose emotions you may not be ready to deal with. For some, the experience of physically releasing can be both overwhelming and off-putting. While exercise can be a part of the healing process, for those who are not prepared for this emotional flood, it can serve as a deterrent.

Trying new forms of exercise also presents its challenges. Whether it's a yoga pose you haven’t quite mastered, or a dance routine that feels awkward, the vulnerability of being a beginner can be a powerful trigger. No one likes to feel unskilled or inadequate, and these feelings can be enough to make you abandon your workout plans altogether.

Learning a new form of exercise can be just as mentally taxing as it is physically demanding. Your mind has to adapt to new movements, new rules, and perhaps even new equipment. This cognitive load can be exhausting, and it's another trigger that can discourage you from making exercise a consistent habit.

So, how do you navigate these triggers and create a sustainable exercise routine? The key lies in awareness and incremental progress. If you're aware that exercise can release trauma, start with gentler forms of movement that allow you to ease into this aspect of physicality. If vulnerability in trying new things holds you back, begin in a safe space, like your home, before venturing into a class or group setting. And if the mental strain of learning is too much, start simple. Don't overcomplicate your routine; simplicity often yields the best results.

Repeat after me: My Journey happens at My Pace

Remember, exercise is a personal journey. What works for one person may not be the right fit for another. Your triggers are unique to you, and overcoming them requires personalized strategies. It's a process, one that takes time, awareness, and the right kind of support. Take it step by step, and don't be too hard on yourself. You're not just building muscle or burning calories; you're building a relationship with your body that will serve you for years to come.

So the next time you find yourself struggling to lace up those sneakers, know that you're not alone and that the obstacles you face are more common than you think. It's not a lack of willpower; it's a complex interplay of emotional and psychological triggers. And understanding that is the first step to overcoming them.

If you’re tired of trying to do this alone, the good news is you don’t have to. I offer a variety of ways to work 1:1 so you can get the tailored feedback you need to navigate these experiences in a totally new way.