Student Article
Why Your Brain Avoids Exercise!
Reward (noun): Something good that you get for doing something.
Goal (noun): Something you want to achieve.
Self-discrepancy (noun): The difference between how you see yourself and how you wish you were, or how you think others expect you to be.
Motivation (noun): The reason for doing something.
Ever wondered why it's hard to stick to exercise even though it's good for you?
Built to move, but not in the mood?
Humans are not the fastest or strongest species. We don't have wings, claws, or armor. But we excel at long-distance running. Our bodies are designed for physical exertion, yet many people don't enjoy exercising.
Blame your brain (a little)
Our brains are partly to blame. Just because we evolved to exercise doesn't mean we want to. Exercise can be uncomfortable because it pushes our bodies to their limits. Our brains are sensitive to wasted effort and ask, "Is it worth it?" This makes us avoid activities that require a lot of work for uncertain rewards.
Maximum chill, minimum effort
We prefer things that offer maximum reward with minimum effort. Exercise means changing our routines and comfort zones, which can be challenging. Our brains focus more on risks than rewards, making us reluctant to take up physically demanding activities.
Your brain as your workout buddy
However, our brains can also help us exercise. We can set long-term goals and work toward them. We understand that doing something hard now can lead to better health later. We can imagine a desirable future and make plans to achieve it.
Meet your motivational "selves"
The self-discrepancy theory suggests we have several "selves" active in our minds: the "actual" self (how we are now), the "ideal" self (how we want to be), and the "ought" self (the part that works to become the "ideal'' self). This helps us stay motivated even when exercise is tough.
© Dean Burnett / Our Media
Reward (noun): Something good that you get for doing something.
Goal (noun): Something you want to achieve.
Self-discrepancy (noun): The difference between how you see yourself and how you wish you were, or how you think others expect you to be.
Motivation (noun): The reason for doing something.