What if fitness felt less like a chore and more like a hobby you can’t wait to dive into?

Fitness for me started as nothing more than a hobby. I didn’t get into it because I was aware of all the health benefits or with the intention of achieving anything specific—it was just something I did because I knew I’d feel better during and after. There was no pressure, just curiosity. I remember the first time I came across a bench press—it was at the very back of my old martial arts dojo. My mate and I hopped on it, probably with no more than 30 kg on the bar, but it felt surprisingly difficult. In hindsight, I laugh at how light it must have been, but back then, we were blown away by how hard it felt. Still, the feeling afterward? That was something new.

It wasn’t just physical soreness—it was this awareness of my body that I hadn’t felt before. The idea of getting bigger crossed my mind, not because I needed more self-confidence (I already knew how to fight), but because I liked the thought of looking stronger—maybe a little cooler too. What I didn’t realize at the time was how this random encounter with a bench press was just the beginning of a journey that would add so much value to my life.

It’s funny how some hobbies can do that. You don’t always need to have a plan, know all the benefits, or set goals to enjoy them.

Fitness is like that—you don’t have to force yourself to train or feel the weight of expectation. If you let it be something that you’re curious about, something you approach with a sense of play, it becomes fun rather than a chore. You start to look forward to it, not for the results, but for the way it makes you feel in the moment.

That’s the thing: what if, instead of viewing fitness as something you have to do, you just explored it? What if there were no goals, no expectations—just a playful mindset when you step into the gym? You don’t have to take it seriously or hit any specific milestones. Go in with an open mind and see what happens. There’s no pressure to get everything right.

Surely, there’s some part of fitness that intrigues you? Maybe it’s seeing someone on TV pushing weights over their head with confidence, or that guy at work talking about how much he loves bench pressing. There’s something about that strength or movement that catches your attention. That’s where the magic starts—not from setting hard rules for yourself, but from tapping into that curiosity. Imagine what if fitness felt less like a chore? When you allow yourself to wonder what it’s like, you’re more likely to try it without the burden of expectation. Being playful and curious is key.

Like with my first time on the bench press, I didn’t know what to expect, and I wasn’t aiming for anything. I just wanted to see what I could do, and that was enough. If you approach it this way, you might find something that sticks. Maybe you’ll surprise yourself by how strong you feel, how much fun you’re having, or even how stress-relieving it can be. There’s no right or wrong in this—just you, your body, and the chance to explore something new.

The value fitness adds doesn’t always come from hitting goals or forcing progress—it can come from the simple act of engaging with your body in a new way. Staying curious, without the pressure of expectations can turn fitness into a rewarding part of your life without it feeling like work. Why not stay open to what it could be, and see where your curiosity takes you? If you’re looking for ways to implement this feel free to reach to me, I’ve got just the right system for you! Additionally feel free to fill in this Training + Lifestyle analyses form so I can understands your goals in greater details before reaching out.

Author - Karim Djidel

I’am a coach and athlete, I offer 1-1 personal training services in Hackney Wick but also online training globally. Feel free to reach out if you’d like more tips on fitness and/or how to get started!