The Perfect Workout Doesn’t Exist

Anyone else drowning in social media posts, articles and guru suggestions for “the perfect workout to (enter literally anything here)”? Seeing this kind of content as a fitness professional and body neutral trainer is so frustrating because the perfect workout doesn’t exist. If it did, we’d all be out of a job 😬. Okay, so let’s set the record straight.

First and foremost, literally any movement is better for you than nothing at all. This includes movement like walking, cleaning your house, lifting weights, running, pilates, etc. If you get out of your bed every day, you are being active in some way. That being said, the more active you are and the more weight baring activities you do, the better! Why? Because we know that as we age our muscles and bones start to lose density and this can create problems down the road like falling, bone breaks, osteoporosis, arthritis etc. So, yes, folding your laundry is movement but you might want to consider getting into a routine of regular strength/resistance training.

Second, anything labeled as perfect, best, sure fire, bullet proof, etc is misrepresenting whatever the workout/exercise/movement is. Why? Because not every exercise/workout works the same for every person. We are all different, so what is great for some, may be trash for others. Besides, we’re not all on the same playing field (nothing wrong with that) and we need to be realistic about our own abilities. So while Joe may be able to do an entire workout with no problem and feel the correct muscles engaged, Ben might be having trouble completing all the exercises.

Third, oftentimes someone using this kind of language is trying to sell you something or carries a lot of privilege. What do I mean by carrying a lot of privilege? Well, unless the person who created this perfect content is making modifications for those with a disability, those in heavier bodies, those in their senior years, those with a low socio-economic status, etc. it can’t possibly be the perfect, sure fire, best workout available.

Ok, so how do we avoid this type of content? The unfortunate truth is that you really can’t. But, you can attempt to minimize it by following accounts that encompass different styles of training, train diverse clients (and I don’t just mean people of color) and use language that acknowledges that what may work for some may not work for others. Before you hit the follow or like button, take a look at their other content. Try looking for accounts that promote body neutrality, fitness for everybody and anti-diet culture. And if you’re seeing this content from someone you currently follow, maybe it’s time to hit the ole unfollow button.

Remember, movement is different for everyone and no one type of exercise or workout routine is superior to another. What matters is that you like what you’re doing, you feel good doing it and you want to continue to show up to live a longer, joyful life.