COMMENT
STRUGGLING TO FIND THE MOTIVATION TO EXERCISE? BLAME YOUR BRAIN
We all know that working out makes us feel better. So why do most of us find it so difficult to actually do it?
ILLUSTRATION: OLLIE HIRST
Humans aren’t the fastest or strongest species. We have no wings, fangs, claws, venom or armour. Physically, we’re largely nature’s also-rans.
‘Also-ran’ is an ironic term, though, because humans do physically dominate all other species in one area: long-distance running. Our bipedal gait and unique sweat glands mean humans can keep running long after other species collapse from exhaustion.
Basically, humans evolved to spend long periods physically exerting t hemselves – that is, exercising. But while many people do indeed enjoy exercising, the less crowded gyms and abandoned New Year resolutions of mid-February reveal they’re in the minority. Even though, as a species, we’ve evolved to do it.