I can think a lengthy list of negative reasons to work out : I need to look better. I should be more desirable. I want to be more like that girl.
It almost feels "natural" to look insecurely at myself and seek
to increase my worth with the quality of my body. Unfortunately though, when the
goal is to gain perceived value or self-worth and I fail, I feel discouraged
and a little hopeless. It can become a rotten emotional cycle.
Through the years, I thankfully discovered that my body
doesn’t affect the inherent value that I possess from God (as I believe) or from those that love me.
That is true of every single woman. We can all take that pressure off
ourselves!
There are wonderful, positive, and brave reasons to work! These reasons build my confidence and
health instead of knocking them down.
There is a rush of joy when we use our bodies. Sometimes it
takes a few weeks of effort to get there, but when we overcome a milestone,
feel our lungs adjust, or get the moves right, it’s a personal celebration. Joy
comes from different exercises for different women. I find joy in running and
dancing, but it could come from gardening, swimming, yoga, or a team
sport…anything that moves you.
2. To Set an Example
Our kids will definitely be watching us on this one.
Consider how we want our kids (or anyone that looks up to us) to use their
bodies. Take those values as
motivation to demonstrate ways to consider, tend to, and enjoy using our bodies
for the right reasons. Let them see us swim a few laps at the pool during adult
swim. Invite friends to go on a fun stroller walk around the park or join a
volleyball league. We can encourage our kids to be physical by being
physical ourselves.
3. To Defeat the Bad
Guys (/Be Prepared for Anything)
I want to be ready. I want to be nimble enough to catch my
stroller if it starts rolling away from me. I want to be strong enough to hold
on to my purse if someone tries to snatch it. I want to give myself a fighting
chance and trust my body to respond to my commands. Now, of course, we all hope
no one has to actually defeat any bad guys :), but exercising can provide a
feeling of power to face whatever crazy circumstance manifests itself
around our families.
4. For Quality and
Longevity
This is about experiencing life in the best way possible.
When we make an effort to be healthy, we give ourselves the best shot to be
spontaneous, to overcome obstacles like steep stairs or long treks, and to
participate in everything going on around us. We allow ourselves the best shot
to experience the wonderful relationships, activities, and opportunities in
life for as long as possible.
Next time you are staring down the elliptical, give one of
these motivations a try. They’ve made a big difference for me. Please share
your other brave reasons to exercise and stay healthy. I'm always looking for more!
Enjoy your brave workouts!
