Working Out More for Sanity and Less for Vanity: My Perspective
the other day we talked about exercise being one of the most underrated antidepressants out there (proven by research). If you missed it you can read here. Today I wanted to give you a deeper dive into my perspective and how it’s changed over the years.
For many of us, the initial spark to start working out comes from a desire to look better—maybe to lose weight, gain muscle, or achieve that elusive “ideal” body. For me it was to get stronger for wrestling. And while those goals aren’t inherently bad, over time, something deeper often emerges: the realization that training offers far more than physical transformation.
For me, the shift from training for vanity to training for sanity was a game-changer.
The Turning Point
There was a time when I was obsessed with numbers—calories burned, pounds lifted, inches lost. Every workout felt like a test I had to pass, and if I didn’t hit my goals, I’d leave the gym frustrated. But something wasn’t clicking. I was chasing physical changes while neglecting the mental and emotional benefits of training.
Then, life threw a curveball. Stress piled up—work demands, family responsibilities, and unexpected challenges. Suddenly, the gym wasn’t just a place to sculpt my body; it became a sanctuary.
I stopped focusing solely on aesthetics and started noticing how much better I felt mentally after a workout. The gym became less about the mirror and more about clearing my mind, finding balance, and feeling grounded.
The Mental Benefits of Training
Training for sanity isn’t just a mindset shift; it’s backed by science. Exercise has profound effects on mental health:
- Stress Relief: Exercise reduces cortisol, the stress hormone, and triggers the release of endorphins, those “feel-good” chemicals that help you relax and feel happier.
- Improved Focus: Regular workouts enhance cognitive function, helping you think more clearly and tackle daily challenges with a sharper mind.
- Mood Regulation: Physical activity has been shown to reduce symptoms of anxiety and depression, providing a natural way to manage mental health.
- Better Sleep: Training helps regulate sleep patterns, which is critical for both mental and physical recovery.
Shifting the Focus
When you start training for sanity instead of vanity, everything changes:
- You Find Consistency: Training becomes something you want to do, not something you have to do. You’re no longer chasing a fleeting physical goal; you’re building a lifelong habit.
- You Celebrate Small Wins: Instead of obsessing over your appearance, you start appreciating how much stronger, calmer, and more resilient you feel.
- You Let Go of Perfection: Missed a workout? It’s not the end of the world. You recognize that fitness is about progress, not perfection.
- You Have More Fun!
The Balance Between Sanity and Vanity
Let’s be honest—there’s nothing wrong with wanting to look good. Vanity isn’t the enemy; it’s just not the whole story. The key is balance. When you train for sanity, the aesthetic changes often come as a bonus, but they’re no longer the sole driver.
For me, it’s about showing up for myself every day—whether it’s lifting heavy, going for a walk, or even just doing some mobility work. It’s about using movement as a tool to manage stress, boost energy, and stay present in the chaos of life.
Actionable Steps to Shift Your Perspective
- Set Non-Aesthetic Goals: Focus on goals like increasing your squat weight, running a faster mile, or simply moving your body for 30 minutes a day.
- Listen to Your Body: Some days, you’ll feel like crushing a workout; other days, you might need something gentler, like yoga or a walk. Both are valid.
- Reflect on How You Feel: After each workout, take a moment to notice how your body and mind feel. Are you less stressed? More energized? Keep those feelings in mind as motivation.
- Create a Routine You Love: Find activities that bring you joy. When you enjoy the process, it’s easier to stick with it.
- Be Kind to Yourself: Remember, fitness is a journey, not a destination. Celebrate your progress, no matter how small.
Takeaway
Training for sanity over vanity doesn’t mean you’re giving up on physical goals—it means you’re expanding your perspective. It’s about recognizing that the true value of fitness lies in its ability to enhance your mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
If you’re feeling burnt out or stuck in your fitness journey, consider this your sign to shift your focus. Train for the joy of moving, the clarity it brings, and the resilience it builds. Vanity might get you started, but sanity will keep you going.
Tim
P.S. Here are 3 ways we can help:
- Book a free no sweat intro here to come into the gym so we can talk more about you and your goals.
- Join our free Facebook Group Strength Training & Weight Loss Tips That Work here.
- Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite streaming platform:
