Okay here we go! It’s almost Spring. That means we are approaching that time of year when everyone is stressing out over how to get a “bikini bod!” If you’re anything like me, you probably procrastinate on the dieting and the gym routine until you realize it’s already June and then think: “Honestly, what’s the point?” Why give up all those BBQ’s and margaritas when a month of working out won’t even make a difference?

But here is the problem with that mindset: it’s focused on only working out for shallow reasons and that is how so many people lose motivation.

The majority of people who buy gym memberships do it to lose weight and that’s great! I think it’s awesome that people see something they don’t like about their bodies and they fix it. But exercising shouldn’t only be about losing weight. Exercising is so important, no matter how many pounds you weigh.

When I started college I was stoked to have a gym membership through my university and I couldn’t wait to get in shape! But one time someone asked me, “Why are you going to the gym? You’re skinny enough as it is!” I get this response over and over again, even 4 years later! But here’s the thing:

I do not exercise to lose weight.

And neither should you. At least, not solely. If you don’t feel good with your weight then it’s great to set goals and to be healthy. But exercising has become associated with a really shallow way of thinking and for some people it’s tough. It’s tough to work out everyday for two weeks and not see results right away. But exercising should be about so much more than losing weight or gaining a better physique. It’s time to look at exercising as a way to be healthy, not better looking.

After talking to a lot of my friends who love to exercise just as much, or more, than I do, I compiled a list of five other reasons for why you should exercise:

1. To be stronger. I know this sounds obvious, right? But strength is something so easily taken for granted. The fact is, as a woman I want to know how to defend myself in case it’s ever necessary. Hopefully I’m lucky enough to never experience that but it doesn’t hurt to take a kick boxing or krav maga class, or even lift a couple weights! Strength can also come into play while traveling. Whether you’re running to catch a bus or a train, sprinting through the airport, or carrying a 30 pound backpack, strength comes into play and it makes traveling a lot less exhausting if you are in shape.
2. To challenge yourself. Every day we set goals and accomplish things in work, school, or in relationships. But when it comes to exercising, it’s a personal goal. Nobody has any right to judge you for how far you can run or how much you can lift. Exercising is a great way to challenge yourself and a workout can be considered “me time.” I’ve learned not to tell people how fast my mile is because the only person I’m worried about disappointing or impressing is myself. A morning run is the perfect time to stay off social media, put on your favorite playlist, and enjoy being by yourself, not comparing yourself to anybody, and seeing how much further you can push yourself.
3. It’s the best antidepressant and anti-anxiety medication on the market. It’s also free, unlike prescription medication. I wholeheartedly agree that in some situations, these drugs might be necessary. But for me, and the level of anxiety that I have experienced, exercising has always helped. Whether you choose to run, practice yoga, or even go on a hike, there are so many forms of exercise that can help you find peace of mind and sometimes all you need is to sweat it out. And don’t forget about the endorphins! When I start my day with a hard workout, it’s hard for me to have a bad day.
4. It’s free. Nobody needs a gym membership. Find a park or trail to run. Take a drive and go for a hike! Ride your bike to work, that’s even good for the environment! Do yoga in your room with some YouTube videos. Everyday I wish I had the money to take a boxing class or that I can become a member at a yoga studio. Unfortunately, it’s not in my budget but that’s no excuse for me to not get in shape. A group of friends and a soccer ball can turn into the best afternoon!
5. To use your body. We are all given a body that is meant to be lived in. By playing sports, you’re using your body to learn teamwork. By spending time outside we are able to hike through the woods or swim in the ocean and this allows us to get in touch with our spirituality. A game of volleyball at your next family reunion or training for a marathon with your best friend are great ways to strengthen relationships in your life. Our bodies are meant to do so much more than look good.

Above all else, by exercising I am able to center myself when life becomes too crazy. By realizing what our body’s can do for us and by feeling strong, we are able to love it so much more! Our body’s are, above all else, a gift. We should admire all of our imperfections while still treating it with respect because of everything it does for us.

When you’re planning your Summer vacation in Hawaii, don’t get caught up in the mindset of “I need to exercise so that I look amazing in my swimsuit!” Instead, think “I need to start exercising so that I can experience all of the beautiful hiking that the islands have to offer!” Or “I need to get fit before my surf lessons this Summer!”

Inspired by Savannah, Margaret, Stacey, and Wanda

Photo by Gavin Craig