Professionals tend to view “exercise resistance” as a behavioral problem or worse, a character flaw. They focus on education, motivation and other behavioral strategies to get us moving. However, if you are exercise resistant, if you have a conscious or unconscious block against becoming physically active, these strategies will not work for you. To become joyfully active, a shift away from “exercise think” is needed.

Men and women are presenting to counseling in increasing numbers--not because they want to slow down their exercise, but because something is interfering with it. If these exercisers were willing to take a look at what they are doing, they would find that their activity is not about performance or reshaping their bodies, but about dealing with life. They would find exercise is essential to them to provide a feeling of mental well-being, to release their tension and anger, and even relieve anxiety and depression.  They also would find they have few other strategies to cope with these feelings.

Exercise is often used as a way to lose weight or shape the body, to enhance our sense of self-worth, or simply because we think we should. It's not fun, and we don't think it is supposed to be. You may think you are lazy or have a character flaw, and need to force yourself to get to the gym. But what if you have actually become "exercise resistant?"

Do you feel driven to be physically active? You may feel in total control of what you are doing and others probably envy your "dedication," but deep down you don't really have a choice, you must exercise. It is as if you are addicted to exercise. And you are probably fine with this, even if it interferes with your life.