Gym, yoga or Zumba? How to choose the most suitable exercise according to your personality

Personalize your workout based on your personality

According to research published in the journal Frontiers in Psychology, choosing exercises that fit your personality can help you feel more interested in exercising and make it easier to maintain a long-term fitness routine.

The study involved 132 adults, divided into two groups: one group followed a fixed home exercise routine such as cycling and strength training, the other group maintained their usual exercise routine. After the follow-up period, the researchers analyzed how much they liked each type of exercise, corresponding to each person's personality traits.

The study focused on five common personality trait groups in psychology, known as the Big Five:

Extraversion

Agreeableness

Conscientiousness

Neuroticism

Openness

Extroverts: Active with high intensity exercises

People with extroverted personalities tend to enjoy group activities, are competitive, and enjoy physical challenges. They are drawn to fast-paced exercise and dynamic environments.

Exercise suggestions:

HIIT (High-Intensity Interval Training)

Group cycling

Team sports like soccer, volleyball

Fitness training bootcamp

The dedicated person: Sticks to specific goals

For people with high levels of conscientiousness, systematic and goal-oriented exercises are most suitable. They tend to persevere and enjoy the feeling of completing each milestone.

Exercise suggestions:

Weight training on schedule

Marathon training

Join a running club

Anxious People: Private and Gentle Exercise

For people who are anxious or emotionally sensitive, gentle, private exercises can help them feel safer and more comfortable.

Exercise suggestions:

Workout with a personal trainer

Personal Pilates

Avoid crowded classrooms or noisy environments

Open and easy-going: Likes new challenges and variety

This personality type is adaptable, adventurous, and not afraid to experiment. They will be more interested if the exercise is entertaining or a unique experience.

Exercise suggestions:

Zumba

Artificial climbing

Martial arts like Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu

Introverts: Prioritize quiet spaces and practice alone

Introverts often avoid crowded environments and prefer to practice in private, where they have control over their space and time.

Exercise suggestions:

Running alone

Yoga

Pilates at home

Physical exercises at home

Trying to stick to an exercise routine that doesn’t suit you can quickly lead to frustration. According to researchers, tailoring your workout to your personality is the best way to stick to a healthy lifestyle long-term.

No matter what your personality type is, the most important thing is to find a form of exercise that you enjoy, because that's the most sustainable way to exercise.