We all have preferences in life, in work, and in prayer. Some prefer contemplative prayer. Others are drawn to praise and worship. Professionally, there are those who thrive in a busy, constantly changing environment. Similarly, there are those who function best in highly defined and regimented roles.
Your workouts are no different.
I love you run. It is my favorite flavor of cardio. Hands down. End of story.
If the only workout option for the rest of my life was running, in that regard, I could die a happy man. It is what I identify with the most, even while lacking the prototypical runners build. I more closely resemble a linebacker than distance runner.
Big deal. I love running.
However, my wife doesn’t. Oh, sure, she will do it on occasion. But running just doesn’t fire her up. What does get her going and excited for a workout? Our elliptical trainer. She looks forward to it in a way that surprises me. Put her on an exercise bike and she will be bored silly… or to tears… or both. But the elliptical puts that fire in her belly to get a solid workout in.
Therein lies that challenge for you. Find that cardio workout that you love. The one that you would do regardless of motivations. The one that is play, to paraphrase the late Dr. George Sheehan.
Sure, there are times to cross train for the sake of cardiovascular well-roundedness and to reduce the chances of injury. Such forays even build discipline, given that it may be an act of the will and much more work than play. Even in those times, such exercises can further cement your love of that one special workout, enhancing your ability at it and your enjoyment of it.
Don’t get stuck in a rut. Find what works, then stick with it. Do that, and you are sure to stick with it forever!
Verso l’alto.