It can be tough to get pumped up for a workout, especially when you’d rather be doing anything else. But here’s a secret: if you do workouts for your personality type, exercising becomes way more fun – and you’ll push yourself harder. This guide will help you find your perfect workout style so you can finally start seeing those results, whether your goal is consistency or otherwise. Below, scroll for the personality type that describes you best, then check out the workouts you could explore.
The A Social Energiser
Bad day? Life drama? If your first port of call is to hit the bar rather than curl up under the covers, you’re an extrovert, hon! You thrive on connection and buzz – meeting new people and socialising is how you recharge your battery.
Your ideal workouts
It only makes sense that as a socialite, group fitness classes are your bag. Think: running clubs, parkruns, team sports, dance classes or boot camp.
Your motivation hack: a workout buddy is a sure-fire way to make sure you get those Move Rings closed up each week. Even if nobody’s free, an online group class will make you feel like you’re part of something bigger.
Workouts you’ll love
Running With A Club
What could be more social than a running club? Each meet is an opportunity to beat your best, while meeting up with a ton of new people.
Hyrox
Hyrox training offers the social element of meeting new people and competing with them. Plus, while you could do Hyrox solo, you could also pair up with a partner and enter – and train – as a team.
CrossFit
What’s better than sweating – or swearing – through the WOD with your mates? CrossFit offers a unique community that sweats together, with the option to compete if you’re up for it.
READ MORE: This Full-Body Kettlebell Workout Is Your Go-To In A Packed Gym
The A-type Planner
Your to-do list has a to-do list. You never miss a deadline – and if you haven’t planned for the workout, it doesn’t happen. And you love the thrill of ticking something off the list or seeing a long-term plan come to fruition.
Your ideal workouts
You love structure, progress and ticking boxes. You’ll naturally want to progress in your exercise routine, so aim for a goal when picking your go-to regimen. From there, a training plan is going to help you maintain and achieve. A strength-training programme, running plan or race is the perfect way to create a path towards success.
Your motivation hack: use a training app or spreadsheet to see numbers climb over time.
Workouts you’ll love
The 3-2-1 Method
TikTok has introduced the 3-2-1 method. It’s a weekly workout split that promotes variety and helps prevent overtraining in any one area.
A Run/Lift Workout Split
Hybrid training mixes different modalities and training techniques to achieve well-rounded athleticism and – as research suggests – prevent injury.
Your 10K Running Plan
This plan is for beginners, so no need to feel intimidated. The plan will ease you into running a longer distance, starting with a few 15-minute long runs.
The Schedule-Averse
If you can barely commit to maintaining your Wordle streak, let alone a consistent workout routine, consider this your personality type. Spontaneous movers need flexibility and can’t stand rigid schedules. You love the idea of making things up as you go along.
Your ideal workouts
To get the most from a fitness routine, keep things varied. Try a gym where you have no idea what the workout will be, like CrossFit WODs, or a sport that keeps you guessing, like surfing, hiking or skateboarding.
Your motivation hack: Commit to “just 15 minutes” – once you start moving, you’ll often go longer.
Workouts you’ll love
Sports
Yes! Pick a sport, any sport, and stay surprised by varied workouts, competitors and more.
Hiking
Hiking means there’s never a boring moment. Pick a trail and get trekking. Boredom? Busted.
Padel
have been scouting the South African padel scene and we’ve found the courts that will take your game (and your social life) to the next level.
READ MORE: The Best Weight-Loss Plan For You, According To Your Favourite Workout
The Solo Soul
You’re an introvert through and through. Being alone is how you recharge, and you like your exercise (your me-time) to be a space for you to release emotions and fill your cup.
Your ideal workouts
Since you recharge alone and value focus, movement that centres on being present will be great for you. Yoga and Pilates, which rely on your breath, are excellent modalities for mindfulness. If you’d prefer to get as strong as possible, strength training with a kettlebell or dumbbells can work. And swimming, whether in open water or a pool, will allow you to create a rhythm as you sort through your thoughts.
Your motivation hack: Create a calm, personal workout space and track progress privately (use apps or a journal).
Workouts you’ll love
Pilates
Pilates, the most popular workout of the moment, is a mindful, full-body modality that blends strength with flexibility.
Yoga
Yoga, far from being just for bending and breathing, can also be a formidable workout.
Swimming
Taking laps can help settle the mind while toning the entire body, literally from head to toe.
You Love What You Already Know
Planning? Spontaneity? Those are not for you. You do one thing, and you’ve been doing it for a while, and you do it well. Routine and familiarity are what bring you joy and comfort.
Your ideal workouts
Your steadfastness pays off in many ways, including your dedication to your sport. Any sport that you can do for a long period of time will be best. Why not go for a marathon, or try your first triathlon? If you’re less into endurance sports, join a sports team, either netball or soccer. The community and regular meeting times make it the perfect way to create a set routine that never wavers.
Your motivation hack: Stick with what you enjoy but introduce tiny upgrades (slightly heavier weights, longer routes).
Workouts you’ll love
Trail Running
Trail running is great for many reasons that extend far beyond fresh air and a brand new PB.
Triathlon Training
A triathlon is about gradual progress, consistency, and embracing the journey.
Netball
Netball is a great way to stay active, even though you’re out of school. Clubs and leagues abound, so join one.
READ MORE: This HIIT Stair Stepper Workout Torches Cals In Just 20 Minutes
The Explorer
Ok, Dora! We see you: the spice of life, ever-evolving person who’s bored easily. You’re a big fan of whatever the new fitness trend is and love experimenting with recipes, make-up trends and more.
Your ideal workouts
Lean into your love for variety and novelty by trying new workouts regularly. Maybe schedule a new workout every month and write down a bucket list of classes, from capoeira, aerial yoga and boxing to adventure races, obstacle courses or cycling tours.
Your motivation hack: Set a “movement bucket list” and tick off experiences.
Workouts you’ll love
Fitness Races
Fitness races like Hyrox are huge and keep you guessing, with different moves. Here’s how to train.
Cycling
Hopping on a bike includes building up cardiovascular health, relieving daily stressors and finding your own uplifting community.
Rucking
You can go rucking wherever you are, whether you’re in the middle of a city or close to nature. Here’s how.
