Why do so many people start exercise programs but then end up quitting them?
In part, it's because the programs don't suit their personality types. With exercise, as with so many other things, it's different strokes for different folks.
For many years, Suzanne Brue has been using the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (r) to understand different fitness styles. She has just released a new book - The 8 Colors of Fitness - Discover Your Color-Coded Fitness Personality and Create an Exercise Program You'll Never Quit!
Exercise is a great way to increase your energy. Because mothers do their best mothering when they are energized, I thought this topic would be particularly relevant to you.
Some of her findings are surprising. For example, it's not true that Extraverts prefer to exercise with people and Introverts prefer to exercise alone. Many Extraverted types feel pressure to be social in the company of others, which can be distracting when they need to concentrate on exercise routines. Similarly, Introverts enjoy exercising alongside others when those people are involved in similar pursuits.
You can take her simple four-minute quiz to discover your color-coded exercise personality (based on the MBTI). It's free. Find out if you are a True Blue, a Quick Silver or a Saffron Seeker. Once you know your color, you can read a summary of what programs and environments would fit you best. Kayacking, dance, yoga or bike-riding? A weekly class or an outside hike? A see-and-be-seen gym or a treadmill in your bedroom?
For example, as an INFJ, I'm a White. Suzanne says: "Whites require orderly environments for exercise, which provide the necessary calm for them to relax and receive the mental benefits of exercise as well as the physical. Once they've made their plan to include regular physical activity in their routine, it becomes a cherished part of their life. It doesn't slip out easily, but when their routine is disrupted by travel, moving to another city or other such changes, it's challenged."
That description really resonates with me.
Summer is coming. Now might be a good time to discover a way to stay fit that fits you.
To Your Fitness Success!
Janet Penley
In part, it's because the programs don't suit their personality types. With exercise, as with so many other things, it's different strokes for different folks.
For many years, Suzanne Brue has been using the Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (r) to understand different fitness styles. She has just released a new book - The 8 Colors of Fitness - Discover Your Color-Coded Fitness Personality and Create an Exercise Program You'll Never Quit!
Exercise is a great way to increase your energy. Because mothers do their best mothering when they are energized, I thought this topic would be particularly relevant to you.
Some of her findings are surprising. For example, it's not true that Extraverts prefer to exercise with people and Introverts prefer to exercise alone. Many Extraverted types feel pressure to be social in the company of others, which can be distracting when they need to concentrate on exercise routines. Similarly, Introverts enjoy exercising alongside others when those people are involved in similar pursuits.
You can take her simple four-minute quiz to discover your color-coded exercise personality (based on the MBTI). It's free. Find out if you are a True Blue, a Quick Silver or a Saffron Seeker. Once you know your color, you can read a summary of what programs and environments would fit you best. Kayacking, dance, yoga or bike-riding? A weekly class or an outside hike? A see-and-be-seen gym or a treadmill in your bedroom?
For example, as an INFJ, I'm a White. Suzanne says: "Whites require orderly environments for exercise, which provide the necessary calm for them to relax and receive the mental benefits of exercise as well as the physical. Once they've made their plan to include regular physical activity in their routine, it becomes a cherished part of their life. It doesn't slip out easily, but when their routine is disrupted by travel, moving to another city or other such changes, it's challenged."
That description really resonates with me.
Summer is coming. Now might be a good time to discover a way to stay fit that fits you.
To Your Fitness Success!
Janet Penley
Awesome! I have been waiting for someone to come out with this. Ever since I learned about the Myers-Briggs from Motherstyles, I knew it would be helpful in helping people determine their fitness styles -- and what would motivate THEM to "get off the couch" -- I can't wait to read this!
Posted by: Sarah Zeldman | June 02, 2008 at 06:12 AM
Thanks for your site! There is a similar process called "True Colors"
Check out the free True Colors Test at:
http://www.PositivelyMary.com
Thnaks again!
Posted by: Matt | June 07, 2008 at 12:51 PM