Instead, I spend a lot of time feeling guilty about not exercising. My running shoes sit by the door, silently judging me as I walk past them on my way to the couch. Every time I scroll through my phone, there’s a fitness influencer cheerfully reminding me that “You don’t find time to work out — you maketime!” In reality, I’m plotting a fictional route to victory for the next series of the traitors.
The guilt is real, though, because we all know exercise is important. It boosts your mood, strengthens your heart, and helps you live longer. Plus, it turns out that “strong core muscles” are actually important for standing up straight, avoiding back pain, and being able to get up from a chair without making a weird groaning noise.
But despite my impressive track record of avoidance, I haven’t given up entirely. I’ve realized exercise doesn’t have to mean 5 a.m. boot camps or running until my lungs feel like sandpaper. A walk around the block counts. Any movement is better than none.
Another key ingredient in overcoming my exercise reluctance has been the supportive energy of the local community. When you’re part of a group where everyone is trying to do a bit more than just lounge around, the motivation shifts from self-inflicted guilt to a shared sense of purpose. It all adds up—not only to a healthier lifestyle but also to a more connected, uplifting way of living.
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