
Blue
Conscientious, committed, and concerned with safety, Blues approach exercise dutifully and without internal debate. They are very tuned in to their bodies, and the correct form is essential. Steady and methodical, Blues prefer to focus on one thing at a time. They enjoy keeping track of their progress and take comfort in following programs that have been tested and proven effective.
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Blues are guided by clear fitness goals and objectives often based on advice from health and medical professionals or information from the media, and they may center on improving performance in sports or other activities. Blues prefer keeping their exercise plans plain, simple, and easy to execute. Keeping commitments to themselves ranks high with Blues. Blues are highly sensitized and aware of their bodies and thus are careful not to over-do. They gravitate to traditional exercise based on proven methods to achieve their goals with a minimum of fuss or risk of injury. Because they are exercising for a purpose, it doesn’t make sense to Blues to spend time experimenting on new routines when they already know techniques and approaches that have worked in the past. With little inclination to live on the cutting edge, Blues aren’t interested in the latest weight program or in getting their exercise in “fun” new ways.
Correct form and proper technique are essential to Blues. These represent not only the best and least wasteful approach to exercise, but they ensure greater safety, which is a high priority for Blues. When learning something new, Blues prefer a step-by-step approach. For instance, in learning a free-weight routine, Blues prefer to learn the proper technique for developing one muscle group to their satisfaction before moving on to the next. Once a technique is locked into their memory, Blues can comfortably move on, but not until then. With their emphasis on safety and form, Blues value a chance to learn from qualified experts who, as professionals, can carefully take them through the steps.
Blues are motivated by keeping track of their workouts. What better way to measure progress and verify an accomplishment than by writing it down and seeing the data? Record-keeping allows Blues to refer to their progress in an orderly manner that resonates with their “true blue” nature. Date, time, distance, sets, reps, results—all details are noted.
Blues seek calm and familiar environments that allow them to focus on the task at hand. They find commotion and interruptions disturbing and prefer keeping their gym interactions to a minimum. Their personalities are modest and quiet; they call little attention to themselves and won’t share their fitness milestones and exercise accomplishments unless asked. Blues typically have outstanding powers of concentration and are adept at creating their own space, even inside a busy fitness center. They might do so by reading or listening to music or books on tape. Many Blues have said that while engaged in repetitious cardio activities, they maintain their energy by chanting or singing to themselves, or by reciting personal mantras.
Advice for Blues
Cardio Equipment
Routine, along with familiar and safe environments, is important to Blues. Treadmills, elliptical machines, stationary bikes, and rowing machines all allow Blues to easily track their progress and get down to business.
Group Fitness
Choose well-organized classes led by instructors who provide clear instructions and predictable movements, such as spinning or strength training.
Rowing and Boating
The solitude on the water and the reliance on good form make rowing appealing. Sailing, canoeing, and kayaking may also appeal to you—and following correct safety procedures will help you feel secure and motivated.
Running
Plan your routes ahead of time, ideally a familiar path in nature and away from busy roads. You likely prefer solo runs and can motivate yourself with podcasts, music, or by observing the world around you.
Strength Training
Slowly master each aspect of a straightforward strength routine. A trainer may help you learn good form. Recording your results will help you stay with it.
Swimming
You likely swim for a purpose rather than for flow or relaxation, so lap swimming provides a satisfying sense of completion with an orderly, clear structure.
Walking and Hiking
Find familiar paths and routes. You enjoy spending time in nature, alone or with a friend or family member.
- Gather information from experts to establish the importance of the physical activity.
- Take steps to assure safety and avoid injury. Check equipment, and review techniques and routines with professionals.
- Choose a fitness center carefully, keeping in mind the need for calm and organization. Familiar paths and routes work best when exercising outdoors.
- Schedule exercise as an appointment and put it on the list.
- Create a separate environment. A smartphone or audiobook can help tune out distractions.
Group Ex Classes
The Y offers more than 5,000 group exercise classes per year! Find a class at your family center that’s perfect for your fitness color and schedule.
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