How to think yourself into a fit person

When we adopt an exercise identity, physical activity becomes a part of who we are (Shutterstock)

Many of us, aware of the benefits of exercise. We try to stick to a routine, only to find our sneakers at the back of the closet when the weather doesn’t co-operate, our routine is disrupted or we are short of time.

One way to turn an exercise fling into a long-term commitment is to develop an exercise identity. An exercise identity is what we imagine when we think of an “exerciser.” For most, this is someone who goes to the gym regularly or prioritizes their walk despite a busy schedule.