"Exercise helps with who I am and I need that release, otherwise I feel like ‘arrrrgh!"

- Lisa S., 50
Roanoke, Virginia

Via Working Out the Workout

"The thing about running that nobody tells you is that training for a race as long as a half-marathon can be quite boring. I logged the miles because I was "supposed to," and looked forward to race day because it meant I wouldn't have to run anymore. Don't get me wrong, I do enjoy running, because it helps me clear my head and gives me a little high. But my approach to running is kind of like that famous quote, "I hate writing, I love having written." In other words, I hate actually slogging through a run, but I love how it feels to finish a run."

- Cory S. 

Via I Run Races for the Insta & There's Nothing Wrong With That

"After college, however, I decided to hang up my tutu and pointe shoes, so nowadays I like to run for exercise, because it's cheap and makes me feel good afterwards. During the actual run, it's always a challenge to find songs and podcasts to listen to that will either distract me from the fact that running is boring, or motivate me to run harder. But, last winter, I put on The Nutcracker just for kicks, and it was exactly what I needed.

When I listen to the Nutcracker soundtrack on the treadmill, I mentally review the choreography that I grew up doing. I also "mark" the arms, which is a dancer habit in which you half-heartedly go through the motions to remember a piece. If you're picturing a weirdo flailing their arms on the treadmill, I get it. But trust me when I say this works."

- Cory S.

Via The Weird & Specific Trick That Gets Me Through Winter Workouts

"I wanted to get my body and my heart in shape, but I joined [Green Ridge Recreation Center in Roanoke County] partly for the mental part. I meet people who become my friends and it is social for me. We have lunch and sometimes travel together. I try to meet two or three people a day.”

- Bonnie P.
Roanoke, Virginia

Via Working Out the Workout

"If I'm gonna tell the truth, it’s [exercise is] about looking good. I mean, I'm trying to keep my black from cracking and, you know, Father Time -- he got a funny sense of humor, but we fighting."

"That's why I exercise… I'm happier, I'm more motivated, I'm more focused, I'm more productive when I stay in shape.  And, you know, it doesn’t happen overnight. It needs to be a way of life. It’s all about being consistent. It’s about diet, it’s about eating right."

- Shemar M., 47

Via ET

"I barre so hard to create balance in my life...

I can honestly say that barre has improved my overall quality of life. Prior to discovering barre I found myself in a physical activity rut. I had no drive or desire to go to the gym like I once use to. The effects of the rut were evident. I had put on weight, had low energy and was irritable. I felt completely suffocated. This went on for several years until I was introduced to barre. I still recall my first class. It was a Barre Press class instructed by Katherine. I intentionally selected the 45-minute class thinking it would be less physically and mentally demanding that the 60-minute classes offered. Katherine quickly proved my theory wrong. I remember thinking it was pure torture. However, a funny twist occurred. Much like others, in a flash I found myself addicted. Barre has improved my over-all health, boosted my self-esteem, and reduced my stress, while bettering my mood and energy levels."

- Amanda
Edmonton, Alberta Canada

Via Barre Body Studio