I’m hearing more and more about a strange, new phenomenon occurring in the fitness world. Of course, I can’t claim to have my finger on the pulse of the entire community, nor do I profess any title that would elevate me to a position from which I could either confirm or deny the veracity of this claim. But, here it is. People are experiencing ‘burnout’ on their journey toward better physical health and quitting the fitness scene.
At first glance, I wondered how this was possible. Why would someone quit doing something that was so obviously beneficial and claim being burnt out? Even the endorphin high is worth its weight in gold and really can’t ‘legally’ be found anywhere else. So, what gives?
Turns out, it’s socially driven. In particular, by social media and the need to share with anyone and everyone what one is doing. This is creating a culture of constant comparison and envy which purportedly leads to burnout and the desire to quit one’s personal fitness journey. This is exactly why the decision to be responsible for your future quality of life must be personal – it’s not for everybody to pick at or tear down on social media. Of course people are becoming depressed and wanting to throw in the towel. Instead of sourcing your identity in what social media dictates, let this fitness journey transform the old you into the new you.
Today was cardio beginning in my happy place. 50 laps in the pool, 16 minutes on the bike, 12 minutes on the elliptical, 8 minutes on the stair climbing machine and 4 minutes on the rower.