If ‘Exercise’ Is Too Much, Try A Little ‘Movement’

“Hey, Susan – want to go exercise later?”

“No, thanks, Diane – but I’d love to get in some movement if you’re up for that.”

Huh? What’s going on between these two friends? One wants to exercise, but the other is only interested in movement.

What about “physical activity,” “training,” “keeping fit,” or any of the other words and phrases used throughout the years to describe the same thing, more or less: deliberately moving your body to expend energy recreationally or healthfully?

That’s our definition today, at least, as we ask you to notice how you respond to different requests and priorities.

And, to clarify, we don’t care which term you prefer.

JUST DO IT!

What’s in a word?
The word “exercise” can intimidate some people who are out of shape or afraid of a gym. However, they might be more open-minded about “movement,” says Shebah Carfagna, a veteran trainer who works with many clients over 50.

“We meet individuals where they are — there is no judgment,” says Shebah, 67. “We don’t call what we do ‘exercise’ or ‘workout.’ We stick to the word ‘movement’ because that is more universal and inclusive.

“We know that 80% of the world doesn’t move so much, so how can you listen to them, interact with them, and find out what they see as their success?” (Shebah, 67, pictured, with her partner Nate, 71.)

There are plenty of other examples of health and fitness in daily life.

For instance, you probably want to live a long, healthy life that is followed by a short death.
But do you feel the same about “compression of morbidity,” a more technical phrase for the same idea?

And when we’re trying to be considerate of other people’s feelings, we might pause before saying someone is “fat.” But do we need to call him “a person with obesity”?

Words matter to our motivation.
Sometimes, a newcomer to fitness might say, “Well, darn. I guess I HAVE TO workout today.”
But after training with us for a short period, we notice how quickly that becomes, “Yay! I GET TO workout today.”

Instead of saying, “I can’t do anything like that,” try, “I’ll work my way up to it.”

Instead of saying, “It must be nice to have all that time to go to the gym,” can you say, “Hmm… let me reconsider how I spend my time to find a few minutes?”

Use whatever language works for you, and find positivity wherever you can. We’re not saying “exercise” is a better word than “workout” or others. Exercise is different for everyone, based on needs, abilities, priorities, and preferences.

Generally, “exercise” seems more rigorous and intense than “movement.” Plenty of members “exercise” with us on some days and enjoy “movement,” like playing with their grandkids or walking the dog, on others.

Maybe you think more broadly, like the phrase “physical activity,” which covers everything.

Choose what works for you. And then… MOVE!

If you’re over 50, stuck in a health rut, and are ready to feel like yourself again, our team of functional aging specialists knows precisely what you need to get your health and fitness back where it should be!

We help men and women over 50 feel better, look better, and age actively- because our life isn’t over as we age; in many ways, it’s just beginning!

Interested in changing your life for the better?

Join our 21-Day Strength and Balance program to rediscover everything you’re still capable of!

If you have any questions, call us at (361-857-5087), and we’ll discuss how we can help you!