Exercise, train, or workout

In the fitness arena as we know it, three terms often appear to convey the same message to many, but really have different meanings in my mind: exercise, train, and workout. I would like to touch on how the three contrast, and the objectives that each represents.

• Exercise: The term "exercise" has had quite a change in its meaning over time. In years passed, it held a more positive connotation, sparking images of individuals and groups participating in physical activities for health and well-being appearing to have a good time while doing so. However, in this day and age, the word exercise has taken on a somewhat comedic association. It brings to mind images of slender women in leotards and sweatbands performing aerobic movements, or memories of mandatory  routines forced upon you by your P.E. teacher while still attempting to be cool in front of your friends. Despite the turned up faces and frowns when the word "exercise" is heard, it remains a fundamental pillar of a healthy lifestyle, offering numerous benefits. People exercise because they know that maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important, but more than likely they haven't had any assistance in targeting what they actually want to accomplish from exercising in order to move into the realm of training. People that exercise may use a vague statement like "I want to lose weight." Yet, how much weight or the best method to go about losing that weight has not been made clear.

 

• Train: Unlike exercise, the word "train" carries an inherent sense of purpose and specificity. When we begin to train for something, we adopt a focused approach to achieve particular goals or targets. When I hear "training" it conjures up the thought of a concerted effort towards improvement, whether it be making a competitive team, preparing for a marathon, attaining weightlifting milestones, or even training to enhance endurance for family outings. It consists of a structured and disciplined approach, often under the guidance of a trainer or coach, aimed at maximizing performance and achieving desired outcomes. Take the example statement above from the "Exercise" section: "I want to lose weight." When a person has shifted into a training mindset that statement may now become, "I want to lose 10 pounds in the next 3 months by walking at least 5 miles a week, eating fruit every morning with my breakfast, and only eating out once a month." You have moved from speaking in general terms about losing weight to being specific and focused about the weight loss.

 

• Workout: Whereas exercise and training emphasize progress and advancement, "workout", in my mind, centers around maintaining a certain level of fitness or physique. People engage in workouts to preserve their current level of strength, endurance, or body weight. Workouts serve as a means to hold on to the benefits gained from previous exercise or training programs. They form an important part of a consistent fitness routine, ensuring that people stay active, healthy, and in tune with their bodies. Continuing with the "I want to lose weight" example, once a person has lost that 10 pounds that they sought to lose, they don't want to regain it, so they workout to ensure the weight stays off. They will even most likely develop a new target and begin training once again to attain this new goal that has been set as well.

Although "exercise", "train", and "workout" are used interchangeably by some, I believe that they possess distinct differences and implications. Exercise, despite its evolving associations, remains a vital component of a healthy lifestyle, stretching across a broad range of physical activities. On the other hand, training signifies striving and reaching for specific targets or goals, often with expert advice and guidance. And workouts focus on maintaining and sustaining existing fitness levels that we've already worked hard to achieve. By understanding the subtle differences between these terms, individuals can better align their fitness endeavors with their unique aspirations and long-term well-being.

As fitness continues to change, it is essential to acknowledge the diverse motivations and objectives that drive individuals towards exercise, training, or workouts. Embracing all three in your fitness approach will allow you to create and partake in fitness routines that align to your specific needs and aspirations, leading you to a more healthy lifestyle.

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