As a classic introvert, I cherish my moments of quiet and prefer to avoid large crowds. While I do enjoy spending time with family and friends, I find that small gatherings are more my speed. A casual chat with a barista or a fellow parent at the park is just fine, but when it comes to exercise, I lean heavily toward solo sessions.
My go-to workouts are jogging and yoga, both of which I can do right in my neighborhood. I’ve thought about exploring other fitness options, but they often require too much planning, travel, and social interaction. It’s not that I’m against group classes or hitting the gym—I’ve tried it all and can understand their appeal. Back when I was a carefree twenty-something in Brooklyn, I loved my weekly yoga class. However, despite the benefits of working out with others, I often find myself feeling out of place.
For starters, there’s the inevitable comparison trap. Whether I’m in a yoga studio, at the gym, or jogging with a friend, I can’t help but measure my abilities against those around me. While I generally feel confident about my body, being in a class can shake that confidence. Suddenly I’m thinking, “Maybe if I came here more often, I could achieve that level of fitness,” or “Will I ever be able to bend like that?” Those mirrors in fitness spaces definitely don’t help boost my self-esteem.
I prefer to set personal goals that reflect my own journey, but it’s challenging to do that when I’m surrounded by others. Perhaps it’s just a quirk of mine or maybe it’s a byproduct of how society views bodies—always striving for some ideal perfection.
Above all, I treasure the solitude that comes with exercising alone. As a stay-at-home mom, I’m surrounded by chatter all day, so my exercise time is sacred. There’s nothing more rewarding than rolling out my yoga mat in the quiet of my den or slipping on my headphones and heading out for a run as the sun sets.
For me, exercise is not just about physical fitness; it’s a form of therapy. Ever since I started working out as a teenager, it’s been my go-to method for managing anxiety. Those endorphins are like magic for my mood. As I move, my mind clears, allowing me to sort through daily stresses, brainstorm new ideas, and dream a little—all things that require a bit of isolation from the world.
I completely understand that some people thrive on the energy of group workouts. Sure, hitting the gym might motivate me to try new activities or provide a distraction-free environment, but that’s not my primary goal. I’m all about those endorphins and the serene silence.
If you’re on your own journey, whether it’s fitness or family planning, check out this blog post for more insights. Speaking of family planning, Make a Mom has some fantastic resources for couples looking to navigate their fertility journey. And for those interested in pregnancy, Women’s Health offers excellent information.
In summary, while I appreciate the benefits of group workouts, for me, exercising alone is a blissful retreat into silence, a time to recharge and reflect, all while enjoying the physical and mental health benefits that come with it.