The walk might not be the problem

September is here.
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For many of us, that means returning to routines that may have looked a little different over the summer.
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That was the theme of our Community Conversation in the MedFit Movement Studio on Friday: RETURN.
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One of the things we explored was what might support us as we return to movement. And as we talked, that idea of support became much broader than I had anticipated.
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One person shared that when she really doesn't want to do some of her exercises, having a reward waiting for her can help. It might be a good coffee or another chapter of her book.
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Another person had a completely different response.
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She didn't need a reward to return to her Dance Fit class because the class itself was rewarding. She enjoyed it.
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Neither approach was better.
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They were simply two different people who had figured out something about what helps them move.
And I think that's worth paying attention to.
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We spend a lot of time talking about what physical activity or exercise we should be doing.
Go for a walk.
Do some strength training.
Stretch.
Take a class.
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But knowing what to do doesn't necessarily mean we'll do it.
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Sometimes the support we need has very little to do with the movement itself.
Maybe it's putting the time in your calendar.
Having your shoes and clothes ready to go.
Signing up for a class.
Making plans with someone else.
Or giving yourself something to look forward to afterwards.
None of those things are exercise.
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But they may make physical activity and exercise easier to do.

And what helps one person may not help another.
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It's one of the reasons I struggle with advice like, "Just go for a walk."
The walk might not actually be the problem.
There can be so many other pieces involved in getting from I want to move to I'm actually doing it.
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So, as September gets underway, perhaps there's another question we can add to all the talk about getting back into routines:
What would make it easier for you to move in September?
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Not what should work.
Not what works for someone else.
What supports you, in your life, as it looks right now?
You might be surprised by the answer.
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Curious about these conversations?
Our next Community Conversation is Friday, October 2 in the MedFit Movement Studio. Studio members have complimentary access to these monthly conversations where we explore our relationship with movement, learn from one another, and consider what might work in our own lives.​

Join the MedFit Movement Studio

Stay well and happy moving,
Lisa

P.S. If having a class on your calendar and a community to move with is one of the things that supports you, Everyday Yoga returns September 17 at Grandview Heights Community Hall and live online. Learn more about Everyday Yoga.