Fitness

Why I Hate Exercise (and Working Out)

Published

11 months ago

March 30, 2025

True exercise begins with the will — especially when aligned with the One who made us.

By now, almost all of us in this country are aware of the health crisis that exists. Obesity even in the youngest has skyrocketed in the past few decades. Type 2 diabetes rates (once called adult-onset diabetes) are at a record high for all ages. We as a country spend more on healthcare than anyone else in the world and get some of the worst results. I could go on but safe to say we are all tired of hearing about the woes.

Amid all the bad news, I have a confession to make. I hate exercise, or working out, as you might say. For those who have read my previous writings or know of our mission, this might seem surprising to you. So let me explain.

It’s not that I hate the act of exercising my body (and mind). It’s that I don’t like the term exercise itself (or anything related) and the connotation it carries. And not only do I dislike it, although admittedly I have used it many times before (and probably will to some degree) — I think the term itself and our perspective around it is a huge reason why we are in such a bad situation in this country.

Unlike many other places in the world, and certainly unlike much of what existed previous to our modern times, exercise today is often regarded as an exclusive commodity. But unfortunately, for various reasons, the notion of exercise has become dichotomized, compartmentalized and “obligatized” (my new word) in a way that has increasingly created barriers (mental, physical and logistic) for people to be as active as we are designed to be. It has led us to believe that the only activity worth having is the kind of movement that is carved out of an otherwise busy schedule, often costs us a reasonable (or not) amount of money, and can be quantified in memberships, calories, minutes and inches.

Don’t get me wrong. I am a super-busy guy who believes that not carving out time for regular movement is a huge mistake, a culprit of many of our woes and that regular activity is one of the most essential things in the universe. Truly, we move therefore we are, even if our movements are significantly restricted by injury or disability. But in the process of making a case for prioritizing movement just as much as we prioritize our work and other entertainment, I think we have done a massive disservice in regard to a fundamental problem that exists beneath so many of our health woes.

Simply put, never in the history of our world has a group of people burned so few calories in comparison to what they have consumed. It’s not just that the restaurant business has taken off like a rocket to nowhere; the grocery expenditures (and I am not talking about rising costs) are climbing just behind them. Meanwhile, we as a country keep trying to find ways to motivate more people to exercise more often. And despite billions of dollars spent, it’s not working for many reasons, not the least of which involves the allure of the online world for everything from buying to entertaining to networking to being (or whatever we think this is).

Last fall, I attended what has long been one of the biggest rivalry matchups of the year, the Mater Dei vs. Reitz High School football game. Held in the historic Reitz Bowl, it was a gorgeous evening pitting two teams that had only lost a collective three games all season. The game came down to the final seconds, after (unfortunately as an MD grad) Reitz stormed back from 10 points down to take the lead with less than 90 seconds to play. All was perfect except for one gaping problem: the stands weren’t even half full. Years and decades prior, as detailed by my uncle who went to high school in the 1970s, not only were the stands often full, but even the sloping, grassy area next to the stands was adorned with rabid fans hoping to cheer on their team. But in recent years, it has been obvious that people aren’t showing up like they used to, just like they stopped showing up years ago at Wesselman Par 3, the only 18-hole par-3 course in the state, which the city of Evansville was forced to shut down.

You might be wondering: What does a football game on a Friday night have to do with my disdain for our perspective toward exercise (especially when adding a slice of pizza and an ice cream cone doesn’t exactly evoke images of fitness)? The reality is that all activity remains activity, and all activity burns calories and activates our minds and systems to an extent that inactivity does not. A simple walk to the grocery store to get a few items, or down to the corner pizza place to secure the pies. Raking the yard, gardening, going outside to throw a football, or even hitting a few golf balls on a Friday night (back when the lights were on). Or maybe even a run down to see a family member or friend who lives around the corner, or simply walking to school much like our predecessors did. It all remains movement no matter how we categorize it.

Don’t get me wrong. There are benefits to prolonged physical activity involving sustained elevation of heart rate and respiration. But what other people and countries have figured out, which we in the U.S. have largely lost in awareness and execution, is that when you build in activity as an essential part of our lives, it gets so much easier to pursue a healthy balance of calories in, and calories out. Yet when our perspective has become that exercise or working out is only worthwhile when it is a carved-out commodity, we get stuck. Especially if we can’t find or prioritize the time to do this, which leads us to believe the rest of what we do doesn’t matter physically and psychologically (which activity hugely influences), putting us in a serious pickle (especially if we eat a bunch of them). But if we saw all activity, even getting up from the couch to turn the TV channel, as worthwhile and valuable to the moving people we are, then it would be a monstrous step in redefining just how we go about approaching the health crisis that exists today.

Truth be told, I don’t hate exercise. I actually like it now more than ever, even though it can be hard, uncomfortable, and inconvenient. I like it because of what it offers me during the activity and when I am not active. And I don’t see it as an isolated part of my day, but rather as one link of a continuous chain that occurs from the moment I wake up in the morning to the moment I go to bed at night. Whereas I used to only regard my “scheduled workouts” as having real value, the last couple of decades have transformed my perspective. Just the walk to the drinking fountain is a gift, and also kind of compelling. I wonder where my next movement will lead.

At the beginning of Lent, we were asked to consider the timeless phrase, “Dust you are, and to dust you will return.” It reminds us that at the core of our being, we have been created by God from a cosmos that is built on many principles, one of which is that we are a people of movement, and that deeply ingrained in our biology is a need to move often and regularly as the Lord would have us do.

As we go forward and submit ourselves to our Lenten discipline, all designed to bring us closer to him and his design for us, let us consider that in God’s eyes, the only exercise truly ordained is the exercise of our will to align with his, no matter the minute, hour or day.

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Fitness

Plymouth Twp. official criticized for saying female employees need to exercise

Published

11 hours ago

February 14, 2026

Press Room

Plymouth Twp. official criticized for saying female employees need to exercise

PLYMOUTH TWP. — A township trustee is drawing criticism and demands for an apology after he implied that women who work in the township hall need to exercise.

At a public meeting of the Plymouth Township Board of Trustees on Feb. 10, Trustee John Stewart said he supported a $29,200 purchase for exercise equipment for the township exercise room and wanted to encourage better mental and physical health among staff.

“Psychologists say you do things that make you feel good, so let’s create a new atmosphere,” said Stewart, 75. “I don’t know why the women employees on the first floor of township hall aren’t asked to pack a brown bag lunch and transport it down to the Lake Pointe Soccer Park and you walk them around that beautiful park.”

Stewart also suggested a lunchtime yoga class for female employees.

“You would make my month if you would call me and say, ‘You know what? (A township employee) has begun to organize yoga for women, and they’re meeting at 12:00 to 12:30 in the new workout room,’ ” Stewart said. “That would be a significant improvement and something that the supervisor can take credit for and the board of trustees can all take credit for.

“I was very surprised when the supervisor called me two weeks ago and said, ‘We’re going to buy $20,000 worth of equipment,’ ” Stewart said. “I said, ‘Eureka, it’s about time.’ ”

Calls for apologies

Township Treasurer Bob Doroshewitz was not at the meeting but said he watched online and arrived at work the following day to find female employees discussing Stewart’s comments.

Some, he noted, were “livid.”

“The implication was that they need exercise,” Doroshewitz said. “It was horrible, particularly if you have somebody who is maybe self-conscious about their weight. You’re basically saying the women in township hall are too fat.”

Doroshewitz estimated about 18 to 20 women and eight men work on the first floor of township hall between the various departments.

“You don’t tell somebody they need to go on an exercise program, particularly ‘you women,’ ” he said. “It’s just not cool.”

Doroshewitz said he sent an email to Stewart, which he later shared with Hometown Life.

“I am requesting that you issue a formal apology to the Township’s female employees, particularly those working on the first floor, for the comments you made last night,” the email said, in part, also noting the remarks were “offensive, unprofessional, and unacceptable in the workplace.”

Doroshewitz said Stewart came into the township office shortly after receiving the email, confronted him about it and said he would not apologize. Doroshewitz also said he has concerns about Stewart’s behavior, citing recent outbursts, saying “it’s getting worse.”

Supervisor Chuck Curmi declined to comment on Stewart’s remarks at the meeting, except to say the issue was Stewart’s to address. He added he had “nothing to say” about whether a complaint was filed with his office about Stewart’s remarks.

“My judgment is that a simple apology would work, but that’s for his judgment,” Curmi said. “I can’t make him do that. He’s got to handle that himself.”

Stewart stands by statements

Stewart said his comments were meant only to promote employee wellness and ensure the township’s updated workout space would be open to women as well as men.

“If we’re going to spend money on a weight room, it should be available to women to exercise if they wish,” he said in a Feb. 12 interview, pointing to his own family of “strong women.”

Stewart called himself a “health fanatic” and said his suggestion that female staffers take a lunchtime walk or consider yoga was motivated by concerns for the health and well-being of township employees.

When asked about his comment suggesting the township’s female employees pack lunches and take a walk at the park, Stewart replied, “I live by that statement. Mental health, a break. Get out of that office because there’s toxic communications going on in that office.”

“We want to encourage good health,” he added. “Sometimes I come on way too strong. But I am all about health and fitness. This was a purely motivated thing.”

Trustee Sandy Groth said she did not view Stewart’s remarks as sexist and interpreted them as an effort to ensure female employees were included in workplace wellness opportunities.

“I did not take offense to anything he said, and I’m a woman,” Groth said. “I really took it that he was trying to make sure that they also had opportunities.”

While acknowledging that others interpreted the comments differently, Groth said her reaction was “very different.”

“I think you interpret things how you want to interpret them,” she said, noting she would have preferred a conversation seeking clarification rather than calls for an apology.”

Exercise room will open to all employees

Stewart was reelected to a second consecutive term in 2024, but also sat on the board from 1988-92. He also served three terms as state representative for the 20th District from 2000 to 2006.

Before Stewart’s comments, the board heard a presentation from Plymouth Township Police Sgt. Mike Hinkle, who said that while proposed upgrades to the dated fitness room would be led by the police department, the new equipment would be suitable for all fitness levels and available to all employees, not just police.

“This is a police department project that we hope benefits every employee in the (township),” Hinkle said. “Every employee is going to be able to go up there and utilize this facility.”

Hinkle noted the room is open 24/7 and has historically been open to all township staff.

Contact reporter Laura Colvin: lcolvin@hometownlife.com.

Fitness

How To Choose The Best Exercise Bike For You (And A Few Of Our Favourite Models For 2026)

Published

23 hours ago

February 13, 2026

Press Room

How To Choose The Best Exercise Bike For You (And A Few Of Our Favourite Models For 2026)

Whether you’re looking to stay active through the winter, add low‑impact cardio to your routine, or finally stop paying for a gym membership, an exercise bike can be a great investment. They’re quieter than treadmills, easier on the joints than running, and perfect for squeezing in a workout while watching TV — but only if you pick the right model.

With so many types, features, and price points, choosing the best exercise bike can feel overwhelming. Here’s a straightforward, no‑nonsense guide to help you find the one that fits your body, your goals, and your space.

Questions to Ask Before You Buy

A person riding on an exercise bike. (Amazon)

What’s My Fitness Goal?

Are you aiming to burn calories, build leg strength, do gentle daily movement, or train like you’re prepping for a race? Your goal affects the type of bike that will work best. A basic upright bike can help with general cardio, while a spin or indoor‑cycle‑style bike is better for intense workouts.

How Much Space Do I Have?

Measure the area you plan to use — whether it’s a spare bedroom, living room corner, or basement gym. Exercise bikes can be compact or bulky, and you want one that fits comfortably without blocking walkways.

How Often Will I Use It?

If you plan on daily workouts or long sessions, look for comfort, durability, and adjustability. If you’re an occasional rider, a simpler, budget‑friendly model might be enough.

Types of Exercise Bikes

Upright Bikes

These look most like traditional bicycles: you sit upright and pedal. They’re simple, usually affordable, and perfect for everyday cardio.

Best for: Casual riders, small spaces, basic cardio.

Recumbent Bikes

With a reclined seat and back support, recumbent bikes are ideal if you want less strain on your lower back and more comfort overall.

Best for: People with back issues, seniors, and long‑session workouts.

Indoor Cycling / Spin Bikes

Built for performance, these have heavier flywheels and allow more intense workouts — including standing climbs and sprints.

Best for: Serious cyclists, interval training, high‑intensity cardio.

Fan / Air Bikes

These use a large fan that creates resistance based on how hard you pedal — the harder you go, the harder it gets. Great for full‑body workouts if the bike has moving handles.

Best for: HIIT workouts, cross‑training, and athletes.

Features That Matter

A person riding a Horizon Fitness bike. — Horizon Fitness (Horizon Fitness)

Resistance Type

Magnetic resistance: Quiet, smooth, and adjustable — great for most home users.
Felt brake/friction: Older style, sometimes noisier, but can still work well on budget models.
Air/fan: Naturally variable, works harder the faster you pedal.

For daily use, magnetic resistance usually gives the most consistent and quiet experience.

Adjustability

Look for bikes with adjustable seats and handlebars. People come in all shapes and sizes — without adjustments, even a pricey bike can feel uncomfortable.

Comfort and Ergonomics

Seat comfort: Some seats are basic — consider upgrading to a padded one if you plan longer rides.
Pedals and straps: Good grip and foot support help during more intense rides.
Step‑through frame: Makes mounting easier — helpful if mobility’s a concern.

Console and Tracking

LCD or digital display: Shows speed, distance, time, and calories.
Heart rate sensors or Bluetooth connectivity: Handy if you track workouts on a phone, watch, or fitness app.

Stability and Build Quality

Heavier frames with solid bases are more stable — especially during spirited sessions. If you’re doing standing climbs or interval sprints, stability matters.

Noise Level

If you live in an apartment or share walls, quieter magnetic bikes are better than noisy fan bikes.

Extra Considerations

Budget

Exercise bikes range from under $300 for basic models to $1,500+ for premium indoor cycling bikes. Set a range and decide what features you actually need versus what’s “nice to have.”

Assembly and Delivery

Some bikes are simple to assemble at home. Others may require tools or professional assembly — especially heavier spin bikes.

Warranty and Support

Look for solid warranties on the frame and parts. Canadian availability of replacement parts and support is a bonus — especially if something breaks mid‑winter.

Our Top Picks for Exercise Bikes

Why Trust Shopping Trends?

At Shopping Trends, every product we review goes through rigorous hands-on testing to ensure we’re recommending only the best for Canadian households. With over a decade of experience in product evaluation and consumer reporting, I personally oversee each test and comparison.

Our process is transparent, methodical, and grounded in real-world usage. Whether it’s a cordless vacuum, a 4K TV, or a hammock for your next camping trip, we evaluate items the way you’d use them at home. When needed, we also consult Canadian industry experts to offer context and help readers make confident, informed decisions. Every “top pick” featured in our guides has earned its spot through careful analysis, not sponsorship.

Fitness

Boost Your Heart Health in 5 Minutes or Less With These ‘Exercise Snacks’

Published

1 day ago

February 13, 2026

Press Room

Boost Your Heart Health in 5 Minutes or Less With These ‘Exercise Snacks’

Workouts can be intimidating and time consuming, but there’s more evidence that just a few minutes of activity may improve your heart health.

You don’t need to join a gym, there’s no equipment required, and the exercise comes in brief bursts of movement that are easy to fit into daily life.

The health benefits are real, researchers say, and the routine can counteract some of the negative impacts of sitting all day.

Cardiologist Tip of the Day: Try Exercise Snacks to Boost Heart Health

Exercise snacks are “short, structured bouts” of physical activity — five minutes or less of climbing stairs or doing bodyweight exercises like squats — done several times a day, the authors of a recent systematic review and meta-analysis of studies published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine explain.

“The main takeaway here is that anything is better than nothing,” Dr. Tamanna Singh, director of the Sports Cardiology Center at Cleveland Clinic, told NBC News.

“The exercise snack can be the start of a foundation for more intense exercise.”

Exercise snacks add up over time and they make you healthier, so take breaks and move during the day, Dr. Jordan Metzl, a sports medicine physician, said on TODAY.

Why It Matters

Exercise snacks led to “meaningful improvements” in cardiorespiratory fitness in adults, even though the amount of exercise was “far below” the current recommendations from the World Health Organization, the authors of the review of studies noted.

Importantly, people actually stuck with the routine, with more than 90% of participants completing the prescribed sessions rather than dropping out.

“This suggests that exercise snacks are not only effective but also practical and well accepted, making them a promising option for real-world, unsupervised settings,” the authors wrote.

How to Get Started

The exercise snacks in the review of studies were defined as five minutes or less of physical activity, deliberately performed at least twice daily most days of the week.

Brief bouts of vigorous stair climbing were a popular option. Or it could be doing bodyweight exercises or lifting small weights.

Certified personal trainer Stephanie Mansour also suggests these exercise snacks:

Go for a walk — brisk daily walking can reduce the risk of early death, a study found.
Do 10 squats
Walk around the house 10 times
Do 10 wall pushups
Do a wall sit during the commercial breaks of a TV show — this isometric exercise is static but very intense, and can reduce resting blood pressure, research has found.

Exercise snacks can change the body in ways that make it easier to start more intense and longer workouts, Singh said.

“Hopefully these exercise snacks will make people want to have an exercise meal,” she said.

For more exercise tips and suggestions, download the Start TODAY app to get fitness challenges and daily inspiration from trusted experts.

TODAY’s Expert Tip of the Day series is all about simple strategies to make life a little easier. Every Monday through Friday, different qualified experts share their best advice on diet, fitness, heart health, mental wellness and more.