For many Thais, the sight of early-morning runners at Lumpini Park or the popularity of group aerobics along the river may look effortless, almost innate. But new research affirms that enjoying exercise is far from an inborn trait—it’s a mindset, and it can be learned. According to fresh scientific findings reported by neuroscience experts at Florida International University and supported by recent global studies, our brains can be trained to crave physical activity, turning the once-dreaded workout into a source of pleasure and motivation (Women’s Health).
This revelation comes at a significant time in Thailand, where rates of non-communicable diseases such as obesity and diabetes continue to rise (World Bank Thailand Health Profile). National and local health authorities have long encouraged movement as a key pillar of public health. Yet, many Thais, like people globally, report low motivation, boredom, or even anxiety when approaching exercise, suggesting that psychological barriers often outweigh practical obstacles.
Groundbreaking research led by an assistant professor of neuroscience and psychophysiology at Florida International University found that people who consider themselves tolerant of physical effort tend to remember exercise more pleasurably. Meanwhile, those who anticipate fatigue or discomfort often feel dread before starting. But the good news is clear: simple mental strategies can rewire these responses, helping people of all backgrounds learn to love movement.
The key, experts say, is shifting how the brain associates exercise—from a punishing duty to a rewarding experience. “You can create artificial motivation and enjoyment by listening to music or a podcast while you sweat, using virtual reality, or just engaging in positive self-talk,” explains the Florida-based researcher. Social connections play a powerful role as well: working out with friends, joining a community group, or revisiting activities previously enjoyed during childhood can spark positive feelings toward movement. As the neuroscientist notes, creating enjoyable experiences during exercise gradually builds lasting pleasure, reducing reliance on external incentives over time.
This approach aligns with broader psychological studies into motivation, which distinguish between intrinsic motivation—exercising for enjoyment or mastery—and extrinsic motivation, such as working out for external rewards (Wikipedia: Motivation). According to the self-determination theory, intrinsic motivation is more sustainable. For Thai readers, this might mean seeking out activities that feel meaningful or reminisce, like traditional Thai dance, lotus walking, or sepak takraw, rather than forcing oneself into unpopular regimens.
Another lesson from the research is the importance of challenge and autonomy. If exercise feels impossibly hard or irrelevant, the brain resists it. However, choosing an activity at the right level of difficulty—enough to be satisfying but achievable—promotes perseverance. One sports scientist from Lusófona University in Portugal highlights, “More is not always better, and a pleasurable activity will be more easily sustained over time.” This means resting between sets if needed, or picking a running pace that feels pleasant rather than punishing. Fitness trackers, now common in Thailand, provide concrete feedback, helping individuals see progress and build positive emotions around their routines (Journal of Medical Internet Research).
Adopting motivational cues is another practical tip. Given that the human brain is wired to conserve energy—a legacy from our ancestors—sometimes merely reminding oneself of the value of movement can help break through moments of inertia. Remembering that regular exercise boosts health, mood, and cognitive function can turn a workout from a burden into an act of self-care (ScienceDaily). Surprisingly, imagining negative outcomes of inactivity, such as sluggishness or bad mood, can also be a motivator.
This mental reframing is crucial in Thailand’s current context. As urbanization brings more sedentary jobs and lifestyles, incorporating enjoyable movement into daily routines is more urgent than ever. Cultural activities, such as joining local biking groups, Muay Thai classes, or public aerobic sessions, offer social connection in addition to physical benefits—both of which have been shown to boost adherence (Bangkok Post).
The research also dispels the myth that only dramatic transformation counts as progress. Incremental achievements, tracked visibly—such as through smartphone apps or by marking a household calendar—can reinforce success. This message is echoed by mental health experts at AbleTo, who underline the value of starting small, tracking habits, and practicing self-compassion through setbacks (AbleTo).
Thailand’s collective experience with large-scale movement campaigns, like ‘Bike for Dad’ or community marathons, fittingly demonstrates the power of shared joy in public exercise. These events not only promote national unity but also show that emotional experience—fun, pride, nostalgia—can be as vital as physical exertion.
So what does this mean for the future of exercise in Thailand and beyond? Scientists anticipate a growing emphasis on “exercise enjoyment training,” where coaches, teachers, and health professionals advise on both physical and psychological pathways to movement. Schools may incorporate more playful varieties of physical education, while doctors could prescribe mood-boosting group activities as preventive medicine—a model gaining traction internationally (Los Angeles Times). Wearable technology and virtual reality fitness, already expanding in Bangkok and major cities, promise even more tailor-made, enjoyable experiences that support both mental and physical health.
The practical message for Thai readers: The journey to loving exercise begins with small, manageable changes. Reflect on past experiences to find activities that spark joy; make workouts more social or novel; use music, podcasts, or scenic routes as motivation; and choose realistic challenges. If faltering, remember that even modest movement counts, and progress is measured by how you feel—not just numbers or appearances. Consider teaming up with a friend or family member for a walk at the local park, or explore new movement styles offered at community centers.
As a local public health expert at the Ministry of Public Health notes, “Our culture already values sanuk—finding fun or joy in daily life. When we apply this mindset to exercise, we’re not just moving our bodies; we’re fueling our minds and connecting with our communities. That’s a goal worth striving for.”
For further information, Thai readers can refer to resources from local hospitals, the Division of Physical Activity Promotion, and community fitness groups. And as the research reveals, training your brain to enjoy exercise is not only possible—it’s a path to better health and happiness, one joyful step at a time.
Sources: Women’s Health, AbleTo, Wikipedia: Motivation, ScienceDaily, Journal of Medical Internet Research, World Bank Thailand Health Profile, Bangkok Post, Los Angeles Times.