When we write programs for our clients, we know that in order to build a sustainable routine, we need to create a connection between the exercises and the individual. We consider movements that feel good in their bodies, exercises they enjoy improving at, and movements they find interesting.

An important way to build connection to any program is to include exercises that feel good in your body. It’s normal for some movements—or variations of movements—to feel better than others. For example, one squat variation might create a pleasant feeling of openness in your hips, while another might feel like your hips are yelling at you to stop. It’s extremely important to note these sensations—not only to identify if something might be wrong with a particular variation, but also because it helps you and your coach understand what you enjoy doing. The more we enjoy the movements in our workouts, the more likely we are to stick with our programs.

Whenever we see progress in certain movements, it’s important that we feel satisfaction from that progression. Sometimes, we get more excited about the progress of one exercise over another. For example, maybe you’ve been working on your squats and feel accomplished when you break your personal best in the barbell squat, but less so when you do the same with goblet squats. These moments are important to take note of and can be a great way to stay motivated and engaged in your workouts. Incorporating more of the movements that excite you can strengthen your connection to your program.

Another way to build connection is by keeping your workouts interesting. Maybe you’ve done your fair share of push-ups and find them unexciting. There are many planes of motion through which you can work those same muscle groups, and different pieces of equipment you can use. Instead of push-ups, you might find cable presses more engaging. The appeal might be the instability of the cables and how they move freely in space compared to your hands being fixed on the floor. Or, it might be that you feel more engagement in your chest and less in your upper trapezius during cable presses compared to push-ups. Discovering exercises you find interesting can increase motivation and strengthen your connection to the program.

As you move through your workouts, ask yourself:

✅ Do these movements feel good in my body?

✅ Do I enjoy progressing in them?

✅ Do they keep me excited?

At Nu Fitness, we apply this philosophy by designing programs that are not only effective, but also deeply personal. We listen to our clients, observe how their bodies respond, and adapt training to align with what feels good, what sparks curiosity, and what fuels motivation. This approach helps our clients stay consistent, build confidence, and achieve long-term results—because when there’s a genuine connection to the process, progress naturally follows.

Find out more about 🔗 Nu Fitness Oakland!