In theory, fitness is meant to be fun. However, the pressure to enjoy something that you secretly hate can make you feel pretty awful. Comedian Hannah Berner knows this struggle all too well, having navigated a complicated relationship with fitness after playing competitive tennis in college.
After feeling traumatized by the pressure of college athletics, Berner has now found a new perspective on fitness as an act of self-love that can positively impact various aspects of life. The key to this mindset shift? Stop taking it all too seriously.
Gymtimidation is real
Gyms can be intimidating spaces, especially for women. A survey by UK brand Hunkemoller revealed that more than a quarter of women experience anxiety around working out due to lack of knowledge about form, discomfort, and fear of judgment.
For Berner, acknowledging the absurdity of it all has helped her rediscover the joy in fitness. Her partnership with Orangetheory, a studio she finds uplifting, has reinforced the belief that laughter and not taking things too seriously are essential for a healthy relationship with exercise.
“Especially with fitness, when you’re taking it too seriously and being too hard on yourself, it’s hard to have a healthy, long-term relationship with it.”
According to Berner, laughter is a relief and a reminder not to be too self-critical. Research supports this idea by showing that laughter can reduce negative emotions and improve memory retention, making it a valuable tool for learning new fitness skills.
While it’s important not to mock others, shifting focus inward and finding humor in uncomfortable situations can make workouts more enjoyable. Embracing imperfections and letting go of concerns about how others perceive you can bring a sense of liberation and confidence to your fitness journey.
So, next time you’re at the gym, allow yourself to sing, dance, and laugh without worrying about judgment. It’s okay to let your true self shine, as the energy of authenticity is contagious and can make fitness a fun and fulfilling experience.
Remember, trying is never embarrassing—it’s the lack of effort that holds you back. Embrace your uniqueness, unleash your energy, and make laughter a part of your fitness routine to transform workouts into moments of joy and self-expression.
