As someone who identifies as an introvert, I find great value in solitude and quiet moments while often avoiding large gatherings. Although I appreciate social interactions with family and friends, I prefer them to be in small groups for short periods. I can easily engage in casual conversations with people like bank tellers or fellow parents at the park, but when it comes to exercise, I thrive in my own company.
My two preferred forms of exercise are jogging and yoga, both of which I can conveniently do within my neighborhood or at home. While I have considered exploring other types of workouts, they often require significant planning, travel, and social interaction, which I find overwhelming.
This isn’t to say that I dislike exercise classes or working out at a gym. In fact, I’ve participated in such activities and understand their appeal. During my younger, child-free years in Brooklyn, I attended a weekly yoga class that I genuinely enjoyed. However, despite the benefits of exercising among others, I often find myself feeling uncomfortable in those settings.
One of the main reasons for this discomfort is the tendency to compare myself to others. Whether in a yoga studio, at the gym, or jogging with a friend, I can’t help but assess my abilities against those around me. Although I generally feel confident about my body, being in a group setting can lead to thoughts of inadequacy, such as wishing I had the toned abs of another participant or could perform advanced poses like someone else. The omnipresent mirrors in exercise facilities certainly do not alleviate these feelings.
I prefer to set personal fitness goals that are relevant to my own journey. Being in a public space makes it challenging to focus solely on myself, even if I’m attempting to zone out in my designated area. This could reflect societal pressures regarding body image and the constant pursuit of an ideal physique.
Beyond these challenges, I deeply cherish the tranquility that comes from exercising alone. As a primarily stay-at-home parent, I’m often surrounded by noise and activity. Therefore, my workout time is a precious opportunity for silence. There’s nothing more fulfilling than unrolling my yoga mat in a quiet room or stepping out into my neighborhood with headphones on as twilight falls.
For me, exercise serves as a form of therapy, offering moments of introspection and emotional healing. Since I began exercising daily as a teenager, it has become a crucial way to manage my anxiety. The release of endorphins during these sessions is vital for my mental well-being. As I move, I’m able to reflect on my day, brainstorm ideas, and allow my thoughts to flow freely in a space that requires me to disconnect from the outside world.
It’s understandable that many individuals need a structured environment to maintain their fitness routines. Although there are downsides to my preference for solo exercise—such as potentially missing out on varied workouts or professional guidance—I am not striving for perfection. The joy I find in solitude and the accompanying endorphin rush are what truly matter to me.
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In summary, exercising alone allows me to focus on my personal goals, revel in the peace of solitude, and use the time for mental clarity and healing. While group workouts can be motivating, I find that the best exercise experience is one that is uniquely mine.