Mary James

Don't Fight Your Feelings: How To Match Workout To Your Mood

KAELIN TUELL POULIN - LADYBOSS

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Kaelin Tuell Poulin

Navigating the complexities of a new regimen requires recognising that your physical performance is often linked to your mental state. A professionally structured mood-based workout plan empowers you to sustain fitness motivation by synchronising movement with your daily energy levels.

Mastering intuitive training and listening to your body enables you to properly adjust exercise intensity, which is crucial for preventing fatigue. This method supports lasting workout consistency and emotional well-being, providing a sustainable framework for beginners aiming to achieve a healthier lifestyle.

It's a familiar feeling: your workout clothes are on, your sneakers are tied, and you're feeling motivated. You know you should exercise, but your mind and body just don't agree. This is a common challenge that can put even the best fitness plans in the way.

The problem might not be how motivated you are or the exercise itself, but rather a simple mismatch between your workout and your current mood. Different emotions need different types of exercise. If you learn to listen to your feelings, you can choose a workout that works with your mood, not against it. This makes exercise more enjoyable and effective.

As with any activity, you want it to match your mood. Different moods call for different workouts. This can help keep you motivated while enjoying the benefits of it. Here is what and how to choose the best workout for your current mood if you are...

Feeling Angry? Try Kickboxing

If your mood is angry, try kickboxing. If you have the steam to blow off, this high-intensity workout is perfect. Jab, high kick, and punch the emotions from a tough day.

Focus all your anger on the workout, and it will be left there. If your body says "stop", listen to it! Negative, powerful emotions fuelling workouts make it easy to get injured while working out.

How To Choose Workout For Your Current Mood
How To Choose Workout For Your Current Mood

TIP: If your mood is angry, try kickboxing. If you have the steam to blow off, this high-intensity workout is perfect.

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Feeling Stressed? Try Yoga

If you feel worried, anxious or stressed, yoga can help you relax. The point of yoga is to make the body and mind calm. Doing certain yoga poses and breathing deeply will make you feel less stressed. This practice is so effective because it helps to reduce stress by using mindfulness, movement, and breathing techniques.

Feeling Happy? Go For A Jog

If you are happy, this brings out positive energy. No better place to harness it than a jog on your favourite route.

You will enjoy your jog while boosting brain performance and preparing your body for a restful night's sleep. Combining your cheerful mood, adrenaline rush, and endorphins can pretty much guarantee you a good day.

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Fat Burning Secret: Why Strength Training Surpasses Cardiovascular Workouts

Feeling Sad? Go For A Swim

Swimming is a great low-impact cardio exercise for days when you're feeling sad. It is gentle on your joints but still makes your heart beat faster. The water itself can feel relaxing and make you feel better, helping to ease the sadness. 

Swimming is a great way to exercise without feeling too hard done by, and the water can make you feel really calm and relaxed, which is good if you're feeling sad.

Feeling Mellow? Take A Bike Ride

If you have a bike and feel mellow, hop on. Take a bike ride wherever you feel like going. Take in the fresh air and sights while enjoying an aerobic activity.

Cyclists tend to live longer lives compared to non-cyclers, be self-sufficient, and fit. Ride through your town, alongside a waterway, or up hills.

The Top 5 Benefits Of Swimming And Why You Should Practise It
How To Choose Workout For Your Current Mood

TIP: If you have a bike and feel mellow, hop on. Take in the fresh air and sights while enjoying an aerobic activity.

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Feeling Excited? Join A HIIT Class

With the extra motivation that comes from feeling excited, consider giving a class or boot camp a try. You want it to incorporate group work, intervals, and possibly some new tools.

Classes utilising high-intensity interval training (aka HIIT), as well as circuits, it helps cardiovascular fitness while also building strength in your muscles. This place is perfect for the positive energy you feel.

The Bottom Line

If you are trying to stop yourself from exercising, don't! The problem with exercise might not be that you hate it, but that the workout you have selected is not right for you.

Whatever your mood, it can help you. If you're not feeling great about exercising, consider how you're feeling and choose a workout that suits your current mood. Don't let your mood ruin your day. You can be in a good mood and still achieve your fitness goals. 

Instead of letting your feelings hold you back, you can use them to your advantage. If you're too tired to exercise, take a moment to think about your thoughts and feelings. If you match the type of workout you do to how you feel, you can find an activity that feels right for the moment.

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Glossary Of Key Terms

• Aerobic activity: An activity, such as cycling, that involves or improves oxygen consumption by the body.

• Cardio exercise: A form of physical exercise that increases your heart rate, such as swimming.

• Cardiovascular fitness: The health and function of the heart and blood vessels, which can be improved by exercises like HIIT and circuits.

• Endorphins: Chemicals produced by the body to relieve stress and pain, referred to in the text as "feel-good hormones" that are released during exercise.

• High-intensity interval training (HIIT): A form of exercise that involves short bursts of intense work followed by brief periods of rest or lower-intensity activity.

• High-intensity workout: A physically demanding exercise session, such as kickboxing, that requires a high level of effort.

• Low impact (exercise): An exercise that is gentle on the joints, with swimming cited as an example.

• Mindfulness: A mental state of awareness and focus, promoted by activities like yoga, which helps in managing stress and anxiety.

• Stress hormones: Hormones released in response to stress; the article notes that exercises like yoga and Pilates can help reduce them.

FAQ

HOW DOES MY MOOD AFFECT THE TYPE OF WORKOUT I SHOULD DO?

Your mood significantly influences your energy levels and motivation, which can determine the most effective type of workout. For instance, if you're feeling energetic and pumped, high-intensity exercises like HIIT or kickboxing might be more beneficial. Conversely, when you're stressed or low in energy, gentler activities like yoga or a leisurely walk can be more appropriate and equally beneficial.

WHAT ARE THE BEST EXERCISES FOR WHEN I'M FEELING STRESSED OR ANXIOUS?

For stress or anxiety, activities that promote relaxation and mindfulness are ideal. Yoga, Pilates, and Tai Chi can help ease your mind, reduce stress hormones, and improve your mood. These exercises involve controlled movements and breathing techniques that work wonders for mental and emotional relief.

CAN EXERCISE HELP WHEN I'M FEELING DOWN OR DEPRESSED?

Absolutely. Exercise is a powerful mood booster. When feeling down, engaging in moderate exercises like brisk walking, cycling, or swimming can help. These activities release endorphins, known as 'feel-good' hormones, which can improve your mood and provide a sense of well-being.

WHAT TYPE OF WORKOUT IS BEST WHEN I'M FEELING ENERGETIC AND MOTIVATED?

When you're feeling energetic, capitalise on it with more vigorous exercises. High-intensity interval training (aka HIIT), running, or sports like basketball or football are great options. These workouts maximise calorie burn, improve cardiovascular health, and are excellent for maintaining high energy levels.

IS IT OKAY TO SKIP A WORKOUT IF I'M NOT IN THE RIGHT MOOD?

While consistency in exercise is important, listening to your body and mind is equally crucial. If you're not in the right mood for a workout, it might be more beneficial to engage in a less intense activity or even rest. Remember, mental health is as important as physical health, and sometimes rest is what your body needs.

HOW CAN I MOTIVATE MYSELF TO EXERCISE WHEN I'M NOT FEELING UP FOR IT?

Finding motivation can be challenging, but setting small, achievable goals can help. You might also try changing your workout routine, exercising with a friend for added motivation, or choosing activities that you genuinely enjoy. Remember, any form of physical activity, even if it's just a short walk, is better than none.

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About the Author Mary James, Healthy lifestyle & fitness advocate


With over a decade of personal experience and professional study in health and wellness, I am passionate about helping women reclaim their health through sustainable lifestyle changes. This article combines evidence-based strategies with the practical insights I've gained on my own fitness journey. My goal is to provide you with expert, actionable tips you can trust.

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