Finding a workout you enjoy is half the battle when it comes to sticking with exercise. Many of us start strong, only to lose motivation a few weeks in. But it might not be discipline that’s the problem; it could be that the workout just isn’t a good fit for your personality.
Choosing a style of exercise that matches how you naturally think, feel and approach challenges can make staying active much easier. Whether you thrive on structure, variety, social energy, or quiet focus, there’s a workout that will feel less like a chore and more like something you look forward to.
Below, we’ll look at the "Big Five" personality traits and how each one can guide you toward a workout you’re more likely to enjoy and stick with.
What are the "Big Five" personality types?
The Big Five personality traits are a widely used way to describe how people tend to think, feel and behave. Most of us show all five traits to some extent, but usually one or two stand out more strongly.
Understanding which trait is most prominent for you can make it easier to choose workouts that suit your natural preferences. The five traits are:
- Openness to experience
- Conscientiousness
- Extroversion
- Agreeableness
- Neuroticism
How to pick the best workout for your personality
1. Openness to experience
People high in openness love variety, creativity and new challenges. Rigid or repetitive workouts may leave you feeling bored. Instead, choose activities that keep your mind and body engaged.
Dance classes, hiking new trails, rock climbing, or even rotating different studio workouts each week can keep things fresh. Your curiosity is a strength; use it to try workouts you’ve never considered.
Mind–body practices like yoga or pilates can also be a great fit, especially when paired with outdoor sessions or creative class formats.
If one type of exercise starts to feel stale, switch things up before motivation fades. Novelty is key to your success.
2. Conscientiousness
Conscientious people thrive with structure and consistency. A clear plan is your best tool for long-term success.
Following a progressive strength program, signing up for regular fitness classes, or building a steady schedule of low-impact workouts can all work well.
Tracking your progress, whether in a journal or an app, can keep you motivated, as you’ll see tangible results over time. When workouts become part of your routine, you’re more likely to stay committed.
If you struggle to start, consider booking classes or training sessions in advance, as a set commitment can help lock in your follow-through.
3. Extroverts
Extroverts feed off social energy and high-intensity environments. The more interactive and lively your workout, the better. Group fitness classes, HIIT training, or team sports can provide the buzz and connection you enjoy.
Consider joining a local running group, sports league, or regular class at your gym. Your motivation can soar when exercise doubles as a social event.
You might also enjoy events like park runs or charity challenges, where the atmosphere can give you an extra boost of energy.
4. Agreeableness
Agreeable people value connection, enjoyment and low-pressure environments. Your best workouts are ones that feel collaborative, not competitive. Gentle group activities like yoga, tai chi, or casual cycling fit this well.
Pairing exercise with social time, like going for a walk with a friend or joining a community fitness group, can make staying active a natural part of your life. For you, enjoyment is the key to consistency.
Low-pressure environments also help you stay relaxed and avoid burnout. The goal is to keep exercise feeling like a positive experience, not a chore.
5. Neuroticism
If you're more of a neurotic personality type, stress management is a priority. Workouts that calm your mind or offer short bursts of effort work best.
Shorter solo sessions, such as running, cycling, or home workouts, let you move at your own pace without added pressure. Yoga, stretching and breath-focused activities can also reduce tension.
Consistency matters more than intensity, so focus on creating a routine you can maintain without feeling overwhelmed.
Keeping workouts predictable can also reduce anxiety, and knowing what to expect each time helps you approach exercise with more confidence.
Now you've learned how to choose the right workout for your personality, why not look at some of our other useful guides?
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