Exploring Intuitive Movement: A Deep Dive
Intuitive movement, which some might know as joyful movement, intuitive fitness, or intuitive exercise, is reminiscent of the concepts behind intuitive eating. However, the exercise domain brings its unique challenges, especially when attempting to sidestep entrenched diet language and culture. As we journey through this idea, I’ve prepared a Q&A section to shed light on some frequently asked questions about intuitive movement.
Diving Into Intuitive Movement: A Q&A
Understanding intuitive movement can be quite a journey, especially if you’ve been conditioned by traditional exercise norms. Let’s delve deeper into how intuitive movement aligns with intuitive eating, beginning intuitive movement, the incorporation of set fitness plans, and more. Note: There’s an affiliate link included below, used only for products I genuinely endorse.
What’s the connection between intuitive exercise and intuitive eating?
Both concepts encourage us to turn our attention inward. With intuitive movement, it’s about discerning what our bodies are craving in terms of physical activity. This could be questions like: What movement would benefit my body today? What kind of activity am I in the mood for?
How do I embark on intuitive movement?
Start by conducting a body scan, tuning into how you feel. Let your choices be guided by genuine interest rather than a sense of obligation. Pay attention to how different activities make your body and mind feel. With time, this understanding helps you make choices driven by genuine need rather than obligation. Remember to ensure you’re not using exercise as a punitive measure or to alter your physique; such motives often disregard your body’s actual needs.
Can I still stick to a rigid fitness routine while embracing intuitive movement?
It’s more about adaptability than rigidity. While having a regular routine might work for some, the key is to always check in with how your body feels, instead of rigidly sticking to a schedule.
Is it possible to adhere to a training program or engage a personal trainer and still practice intuitive movement?
Think of training schedules in intuitive movement as you would about meal planning in intuitive eating. Pre-planning can be essential for many of us. The essence is adaptability. This might mean discussing a variety of routines with your trainer, adjusting according to how you feel on any given day.
If my body prompts me to exercise daily, is that okay?
Rather than questioning the routine, it’s essential to probe the reasons behind it. Questions worth pondering include how you feel before and after your workouts, and whether you’d still engage in the activity if body alteration wasn’t the goal. If guilt or dread becomes associated with your workout, it’s time to re-evaluate.
Do most fitness experts endorse intuitive movement?
While some fitness professionals indeed advocate for joy-driven exercise, the broader fitness sector can sometimes be mired in misinformation. The foundation of intuitive movement can be traced back to dietitians Evelyn Tribole and Elyse Resch in their 1995 publication “Intuitive Eating”. Its growing acceptance today is largely due to the public’s growing disillusionment with traditional diet and wellness norms.
What if allowing myself breaks from workouts means I stop exercising altogether?
This perspective might point to an inherent distrust in our body’s signals. As with intuitive eating, initially, there might be a phase of indulgence, but eventually, equilibrium is achieved. The form of your exercise may evolve, but it will be sustainable and enjoyable.
Can I achieve tangible outcomes with intuitive movement without relentless consistency?
Certainly! Goals within intuitive movement are health-centric, not weight-centric. Aspects like enhancing strength, agility, mood, and energy levels are all beneficial outcomes to pursue. While regularity is essential, it should be free from the confines of strict routines.
Want to dive deeper?
For those keen to explore further, take a look at my detailed guide on intuitive exercise and my suggestions for embracing body-positive fitness approaches.
