Negative exercise memories from school persist into adulthood, researcher says

A study by the University of Jyväskylä found that overweight individuals experience less enjoyment during physical activity compared to those of normal weight, according to research published by Finnish broadcaster Yle.

Doctoral researcher Ella Hellsten’s findings show that overweight and obese participants reported fewer positive emotions—such as pleasure, enjoyment, or empowerment—during exercise than their normal-weight counterparts.

Motivation for physical activity also differed between weight groups. Normal-weight individuals were more likely to exercise for intrinsic reasons, such as the joy of movement, while overweight participants were often driven by external factors like appearance, weight loss, or social pressure.

Hellsten noted that while external motivators can initially encourage people to start exercising, long-term adherence is more sustainable when individuals find internal satisfaction in movement. She emphasized the importance of discovering a form of exercise that suits personal preferences, whether it be gym workouts, group classes, forest walks, or home workouts.

The research highlights gaps in healthcare guidance, where patients often report feeling poorly treated. Hellsten cited cases where doctors simply advise patients to “exercise more” without further support or discussion.

Empathetic and individualized approaches in exercise counseling are crucial, Hellsten said, particularly for those with negative past experiences, such as from school physical education classes. She stressed the need for safe discussions to help people reframe their relationship with exercise.

Hellsten and her team are currently collaborating with the Jyväskylä Hospital Nova’s sports medicine clinic, where patients receive tailored care that considers their emotional connection to physical activity.