Fitness is Not One-Size-Fits-All: Find What Moves You

By Paula Lalanne

The start of a new year often brings promises of transformation, but when it comes to fitness, the real magic lies in finding what moves you. Forget the cookie-cutter plans and viral workout trends—fitness isn’t one-size-fits-all, and that’s its beauty. Whether it’s Pilates, weightlifting, or long walks through your favorite park, the key is crafting a routine that aligns with your interests and goals. After all, the best workout isn’t the one someone else swears by; it’s the one that gets you excited to show up and keeps you coming back.

Fitness is deeply personal. Some people thrive on high-intensity interval training (HIIT), while others find their stride in yoga or long-distance running. Preferences are hardwired into us, and leaning into what you enjoy is key to consistency. Studies have shown that individuals are more likely to stick to an exercise routine if it aligns with their interests and skill sets. (Translation: if you hate swimming, don’t force yourself into the pool just because it’s “the best workout.” Lace up your running shoes instead!)

That said, there are universal pillars of fitness that everyone can benefit from: weightlifting, cardio, and stretching. These foundational elements strengthen muscles, improve cardiovascular health, and enhance flexibility—three essentials for a well-rounded fitness regimen. Beyond these basics, however, your workout routine should reflect who you are.

As a Pilates instructor, I’ve seen how natural abilities vary. Some students arrive with incredible flexibility, while others possess strength or endurance. The beauty of movement lies in its inclusivity—whether you're a seasoned athlete or just starting, showing up is what matters most.

Discipline: The Ultimate Game-Changer

Here’s the thing about fitness: discipline trumps motivation every time. Motivation is fleeting, inspired by a good pep talk or a compelling social media post, but discipline is what gets you out of bed on a cold January morning. And guess what? The more disciplined you become, the more motivated you’ll feel. Progress feeds motivation—it’s a self-sustaining cycle.

So, how do we tie discipline to weightlifting, Pilates, and everything in between? Start by setting non-negotiable goals. Commit to resistance training three times a week. Pair it with a stretching routine to keep your muscles flexible and primed. Then, sprinkle in something you genuinely love—whether it’s a dance class, hiking, or playing tennis. A diverse schedule ensures you never get bored and keeps different muscle groups engaged.

The Science Behind Results

Recently, I added weightlifting to my weekly routine, and the results have been transformational. Not only has my body composition shifted, but I’ve discovered the mental clarity that comes from lifting heavy. Weightlifting, especially to failure, triggers muscle hypertrophy (growth). When you push your muscles to their limits, they deplete glycogen stores, forcing the body to either draw on fat reserves or replenish those stores when you refuel. Science supports this: consuming protein within an hour post-workout accelerates muscle recovery and growth by optimizing protein synthesis. Studies published in the Journal of Applied Physiology emphasize that timing and consistency in fueling your body are critical for maximizing gains.

Beyond the physical, weightlifting fosters a sense of empowerment. There’s nothing quite like picking up a heavier dumbbell than you thought possible or hitting a new personal record (PR).

New Year, New Opportunities
As we step into a new year, let’s embrace fitness not as a short-term resolution but as a lifelong journey of self-reinvention. The beauty of fitness lies in its ability to transform—not just your body, but your mindset. Every drop of sweat, every challenge conquered, and every small win shapes a stronger, more confident you.

Forget fleeting trends and one-size-fits-all programs. This year is about creating a plan as unique as your fingerprint. Ask yourself: What do I genuinely enjoy? What makes me feel alive? Because the secret to long-term success lies in consistency—and consistency thrives on passion.

Consistency, Diversity, and Discipline
Think of your fitness routine as a mosaic, with each piece contributing to the masterpiece. Strength training lays the foundation, cardio energizes the body, and stretching keeps you agile and balanced. Sprinkle in activities that spark joy, whether it’s paddleboarding, salsa dancing, or a serene morning hike. Diversity not only keeps your workouts fresh but also engages different muscle groups, preventing plateaus.

But let’s be real: the heart of transformation is discipline. Motivation may spark the flame, but discipline keeps it burning. There will be days when the couch seems more inviting than the gym. On those days, discipline whispers, Go anyway.And here’s the magic—every time you honor your commitment, you reinforce a powerful message: I am capable, I am resilient, and I am worth the effort.

Building a Resilient You
Science backs what we already feel: movement strengthens both body and mind. A 2018 study published in The Lancet Psychiatry revealed that regular physical activity significantly reduces symptoms of depression and anxiety, with participants experiencing a 43% improvement in mental health. Whether it’s the endorphin rush from a run or the meditative flow of Pilates, exercise is a proven mood booster.

By showing up for yourself, you’re not just building physical endurance—you’re training your mind to face life’s challenges with grace and grit. Think of every workout as a metaphor: when the weights feel heavy or the reps seem endless, you’re learning to push through discomfort and trust in your strength.