Watch Linda Gottlieb, Master Fitness Motivator and Fit Trainer, interviews Suzanne Brue of The 8 Colors of Fitness.

Watch Michelle Joy Kramer, Health Coach, talk with special guest Suzanne Brue of The 8 Colors of Fitness.

Watch a discussion between Sue Tissinger of YMCA Greater Charlotte and Rebecca Plaisance of the Macaroni Kid South Charlotte, discuss how The 8 Colors of Fitness can be utilized this summer at the YMCA.

The YMCA of Central Florida, Orlando, talk about The 8 Colors of Fitness as a tool to help you discover your unique fitness personality and learn about fitness activities that best suit your style.

WHICH HOLDS SWAY … JOB OR PLAY?
This article is reprinted with permission from The Bulletin of Psychological Type. The Bulletin is a publication of the Association for PsychologicalType.

Type and Physical Exercise:Which Holds Sway … Job or Play?
APTi Bulletin of Psychological Type, Vol. 30, No. 2 (2007) By: Suzanne Bru

Steve, ISTP, likes the idea of being fit but will not make time for exercise unless it is in connection with a practical activity. “I park a mile from work. I save money and get exercise along the way. Repetitive exercise is hard to confront. I enjoy the woods – I’m never bored in the woods.”

Iris, ESFJ, goes to her nearby gym three times a week and says, “I hate every minute of it.” She runs through her cardio/weight routine quickly, getting in and out of the gym in under 40 minutes. “It means a lot to me to follow through on what I promise,” she says. “It makes me feel I am in control of my life – that I did what I said I was going to do.”

For Karen, INTP, fun is fundamental but intensity is on the other side of the hook. Karen describes her enjoyment of Kung Fu: “I like the intensity of it and the purpose of it, self-defense. I know what the options are, and I have a fantastic instructor who is knowledgeable and pushes me hard.”

Type plays a fascinating and pivotal role in how and why these people exercise. It is a connection I have been studying for six years, as I have interviewed hundreds of fit and physically active people across the sixteen types from all over the world, including Canada, England, Egypt, and New Zealand. Based on their responses, I have discovered a strong and predictable correlation between an individual’s type and his or her exercise preferences for motivation, perceived benefits, approach, interactions with others, barriers, and even favorite activities.

When I first conceived this project in 2001, I hypothesized that the full range of our preferences would affect our approach to exercise, some in subtle ways and others more obviously. Since then, I have talked to hundreds of people who make exercise an integral part of their lives and some fascinating patterns have emerged.

The result is the Color Me Fit system, an ever-growing and developing approach to physical fitness choices grounded in type, based on years of research and containing the elements of nuance one would expect from an examination of human behavior.

Not only did my research uncover hooks and roadblocks for all types, but it also revealed how our mental processes are engaged in exercise in an in-depth manner. I could see the full range of type functions, preferences, and orientations come into play in a recognizable and accessible fashion. The questions were being answered and a framework for understanding the dynamic of fitness personalities took shape.

Job or Play
As my research progressed, I found myself able to anticipate some of the ways preferences would be expressed by those I interviewed which was very handy when traveling thirty miles to meet someone who agreed to share his story of exercise success.

One bright summer day, I planned to drive out to a remote spot in the country to interview an ISFP. Better take my sunglasses, I thought, since the session will definitely take place outdoors. I was glad I brought the glasses, as Jim walked me through his house out to the rear deck for our talk. Jim was the third ISFP I had interviewed in a week – I had internalized their profound love of the outdoors and their preference for living outside as much as possible.

However, one common theme I was slow to anticipate was INTP and INFP’s overriding desire to enjoy their exercise – it had to be fun! Consistently, I heard INPs say they had a tough time staying with an exercise regimen unless they actually enjoyed it. I even had an INTP call me up after I had returned from our interview to have me add this information to her comments.

I studied the interviews with other consistent exercisers and noted that some types – notably ENPs, ESPs, and ISPs, in particular – also tended to follow the pleasure principle. Perhaps they are not so single-minded and unequivocal as INPs, but unmistakably they are in the “gottahave- fun” category, too. As a student and practitioner of the MBTI®, I recognized the common denominator here, the feature these types shared. Each of them extraverted his or her perceiving process. In the parlance of the MBTI, they are Ps.

What about the Js, I wondered. Did they share an approach that mirrored this need for fun so much on the mind of Extraverted Perceiving Ps?

I thought back to one of my early articles on exercise and type that pre-dated the creation of the Color Me Fit system (Brue, 2002). As I wrote then:

David is 40 years old, thin, handsome, and fit. He has preferences for ISTJ. Prior to being at work in the morning, David exercises at a fitness center convenient to his office. He exercises five mornings a week, systematically rotating between cardiovascular and weights. He runs through the same program every week. ‘Are you happy with your level of exercise?’ was my final question in our interview. David responded, ‘It gets the job done.’

In the Jungian tradition, people like David are Extraverted Judgers – in MBTI terminology, the Js. For them, making the commitment and following through to completion are higher motivators than enjoyment. In fact, one ISTJ told me, “I like exercise that can be measured, because I’m not doing it for pleasure.”

And so it followed consistently that not only ISTJs but also the ESJs, ENJs, and INJs did not have a fun hook. These types rarely even mentioned enjoyment or pleasure when talking about their routines. I do not mean to imply that they do not enjoy themselves, since quite often they find ways to exercise that are deeply satisfying, even

spiritual. But “fun” was not what got them to start exercising and stay with it.

I began to see this element of pleasure on a continuum; there is enjoyment, there is fun, and there is play. Js often find exercise pleasurable, but rarely do they use the word fun to describe what they do, whereas Ps use the word all the time.

The job aspect arose here. Js typically commit to exercise because they know they will be better for having done it. They accept it as necessary. Wherever else their decision to exercise might have taken them, that was the starting point.

Ps, on the other hand, find it more difficult to create a sustainable habit of exercise without some sort of fun connection. They want something closer to play from the outset, something with flow and connectivity – dance, perhaps. Taking a narrow view of what qualifies as exercise in our culture does them a particular disservice, and often adds a measure of guilt and discouragement when they reject gym memberships or structured routines. The Ps I interviewed had conquered this obstacle and were often happily engaged in physical activities – sports, competitions, dance, vigorous activities of daily living – that ably served their needs for both exercise and an element of fun or play.

As a matter of fact, this has been one of the more interesting patterns arising from my research. Ps who attend my presentations on the Color Me Fit system often experience an “Aha” moment when I mention that many J types never consider whether or not an exercise will be fun. Needing that element of fun to get them past their own resistance, they are amazed that Js can sustain exercise programs they do not enjoy.

Figure 1:
ESTJ, ESFJ – Gold: The Gold Standard, Just the Facts
Traditional and conservative in their approach to exercise, avoiding unproven, fad or “new-age” options, ESTJs and ESFJs plan for exercise based on authoritative resources and because it is the “right thing to do.” ESJs prefer structure and routine, valuing experience, safety, and proven methods. Conserving of energy, ESJs seek a balanced life, aiming not to over-do in all things, including exercise. Proud of what they do; results are what they’re after. ISTJ,

ISFJ – Blue: True Blue, Tried and True
Conscientious, committed, and concerned with safety, ISTJs and ISFJs approach exercise dutifully. ISJs are highly attuned to their bodies and correct form, focusing on one thing at a time. Steady and methodical, ISJs take comfort in routine, keeping track and measuring. ISJs enjoy using their outstanding powers of concentration. With a regard for the “tried and true”, ISJs have a common sense approach to exercise and prefer to stay with what they know.

ESTP, ESFP – Red: Roaring Reds, Now!
Being in the physical world lets ESPs know they’re alive. ESPs are quick responders. They enjoy high stimulation, variety, and action preferring to “play” outside. ESPs naturally incorporate physical activity in their lives rather than scheduling exercise. ESPs find it boring to just stay in shape — it is helpful to have a goal. Living in the moment, they approach activities with “no limits” giving it all they’ve got every time.

ISTP, ISFP – Green: Greener than Green, Naturally Outdoorsy
The physical world beckons. ISPs naturally and seamlessly merge with the physical world. Practical, modest, and understated, they are naturally observant of the physical details and small variations in their environment. ISPs enjoy living a physically active life in harmony with nature. With their practical approach it makes sense to get your exercise in activities of daily living. ISPs are motivated to maintain a level of fitness so they can partake in the outdoor activities they relish.

ENTP, ENFP – Silver: Quicksilver, The Master of Exercise Disguise
ENPs wrap exercise in the disguise of something else as the thought of pure exercise is unappealing. An alternative purpose keeps them engaged. ENPs enjoy activities that are convenient, requiring minimal process and planning. Fast paced, ENPs do not want to waste time/effort in transition. ENPs are attracted to new ideas and possibilities and might cycle through activities and fitness passions.

INTP, INFP – Saffron: Saffron’s Seeking, Making Workouts into Play
INPs are attracted to exercise environments that that are flexible and convenient, providing an opportunity for spontaneity and self-expression. Easily bored, INPs enjoy challenging activities with the right combination of fun, freedom and flow — with minimal stops and starts. Activities that connect them to their sense of play are appealing, as well as solitary activities alone or alongside comfortable others.

ENTJ, ENFJ – Purple: Royal Purples, Pursuers with a Plan
With a loosely envisioned plan in mind, ENJs approach exercise with purpose and objective. Motivated by “being at their best,” ENJs are attracted to variety and organize exercise in categories — cardio, strength training, and stretching. They experiment from time to time, but are drawn to exercise they can make part of their routine. Functional, orderly, and positive environments are important.

INTJ, INFJ – White: A Blank Canvas, Trailblazers on Familiar Paths
Since exercise can provide solitary time for reflection, visioning, and mental drift, it is important for INJs to seek peaceful and pleasing environments. Jarred by interruptions and chaos, orderly environments provide the necessary calm for physical exercise. Familiar paths and activities are appealing, enabling exercise to become a moving meditation. Advanced planning makes it happen.

The Entry Point
I now believe that knowledge of which side of the J/P divide you live on will inform your approach to the entire issue of exercise and activity, at the outset and ongoing. For both Extraverted Judgers (Js) and Extraverted Perceivers (Ps), knowledge of their type can clarify why certain situations loom like roadblocks to overcome before they can maintain a regular exercise program.

This may be understood by considering some common characteristics of these type preferences. For instance, Js have a tendency to initiate, define/limit, and gain closure. By contrast, Ps prefer to respond, expand, and connect.

By no means does my research indicate that, within the J/P divide, one side is more physically active than the other. I interviewed active and satisfied exercisers of all stripes. What I did find is that J’s basic requirements are very real and very different from those of P’s. It is in the nature of Js (Fe or Te) to orient toward routine, become satisfied with it, and in many ways take pleasure in completion of their plan.

For the Ps (Se or Ne), the basic requirement is more often rooted in the interaction, the connection, and the opportunity to turn their attention to the outer world, noticing and engaging the environment outside themselves, whether it is people, places, or ideas. These interactions provide the greatest satisfaction, which bodes well for initiating and sustaining an exercise program.

For Js, then, it is a job. For Ps, play holds sway. Whether you eventually commit to an exercise routine as you would another job or you look for a way to enjoy exercise to help you get past your resistance, the thought of exercise in and of itself is rarely much of a draw.

To make this new way of applying type information assessable and userfriendly, I devised a color model, the Color Me Fit System (Figure 1), which matches preferences for physical activity to personality type. The model, using 8 colors corresponding to dominant perceiving processes, provides a visualization for people to tap into their true nature for lifelong fitness.

THE FEELING FUNCTION AND PHYSICAL EXERCISE
This article is reprinted with permission from The Bulletin of Psychological Type. The Bulletin is a publication of the Association for PsychologicalType.

The Feeling Function and Physical Exercise
APTi Bulletin Vol.26 No. 4 (2003) By: Suzanne Brue

To gather information about the connection between type and physical exercise, I have been interviewing individuals of the 16 types who regularly exercise, asking the following questions:

1. Describe a typical week of exercise
2. Where do you exercise? What aspect(s) of the environment is (are) important to you?
3. Do you exercise alone or with a friend or family member?
4. What motivates you to exercise? Describe the benefits.
5. Describe your history of physical exercise.
6. What types of exercise, exercise interactions or environments turn you off ?
7. What coaching/training styles work or do not work for you?
8. What advice would you give people of your type who do not exercise to help them exercise?

Feeling
The feeling function is a rational judging process driven by values that are assigned to all things. The focus is on these subjective values and decisions are made in accordance with accepting or rejecting these values.

Extraverted Feeling
FSFJ, ENFJ, ISFJ, INFJ
Extraverted feeling in the dominant or auxiliary position is typified by a focus on people and relationships. Behavior is influenced by what is appropriate according to objective standards and societal norms. Extraverted feeling is oriented toward a pleasing physical environment and harmony in relationships. Extraverted feeling types are typically motivated to exercise in the following ways:
• Frequently attracted to exercise that connects them to others, directly or indirectly.
• Environment must be friendly and harmonious
• Physically pleasing ambiance
• Routine is attractive
• Motivated by following through on commitment to self.

ESFJ, ENFJ (Dominant Extraverted Feeling)
Extraverted feeling in the dominant position is characterized by a preference to exercise alongside other people. Interest and energy is maintained through observing or being with people. Dominant extraverted feeling types report boredom and little motivation when they exercise by themselves for too long a period of time. When the auxiliary is introverted sensing, the physical environment is acutely noted. Cleanliness, smells, room temperature, water temperature (if swimming), and all other aspects of the physical environment are important. When the auxiliary is intuition, the physical environment is not noticed in such detail but must be pleasing enough not to interfere with the mind wandering, cleansing, and visions that float in and out of consciousness.

The Personal Touch in a Pleasing Setting the ESFJ Way
Iris has been a close friend for over 30 years. While my professional interests have gone toward psychology and understanding the human experience, Iris has found her passion in music and for many years was a professional jazz singer. She is presently a musical booking agent. In my first article (Vol. 23, No. 3) I described the moment I make the connection between type and physical exercise through my observations with my mother (ESFJ) and her physical therapy. Later that day over lunch, Iris and I discussed her search for a sustainable exercise program. The theme was the same as with my mom. I knew I was on to something and began my study of the connection between type and physical exercise. It has been several years since that initial conversation, and I am delighted to report that Iris has found the physical exercise she loves in yoga.

“Yoga tells me exactly where I am, where I’m weak, where I experience pain, where I’m loose, where I’m tight. I like to know where I am physically, and yoga tells me that.”

Iris loves her yoga class which is held in a church nestled in the woods in rural Maryland. Beautiful views of surrounding trees can be seen from most windows. The room is clean and large. Everyone has enough space as classroom size is kept to 10 participants. The class is taught by Wendy who has become Iris’s friend.

“Does Wendy talk in class or include readings?” I asked.

“She cites fact based information from authorities that document the physical benefits of yoga as it relates to, for example, heart rate or cholesterol. Her readings emphasize practical laws of the universe, none of the “new age” stuff that really turns me off. I also like the music Wendy selects, and she plays it at just the right level.”

Iris described Wendy as being personable, knowledgeable, and caring. “She keeps an eye on everyone. She walks around the class and gently corrects your posture, giving personal feedback.”

In addition, Iris goes to a gym two days a week to lift weights. She forces herself to go to the gym because of her osteoporosis. She knows it is good for her and she will feel better when she leaves. “I don’t look forward to it and certainly don’t enjoy it when I’m there. I get in and out in 40 minutes.”

“How are you able to stick with the gym routine?”

“Probably the commitment and fear because of my osteoporosis,” Iris laughed. “It means a lot to me to follow through on what I promise, and makes me feel I am in control of my life. The gym is small, clean, and relatively personal, and I see the same people each time I go. That helps.”

ISFJ, INFJ (Auxiliary Extraverted Feeling)
Those with extraverted feeling in the auxiliary have a very conscientious approach to exercise and plan what they are going to do. They are routine oriented and attracted to exercise that is comfortable and familiar. Introverted sensing in the dominant position is characterized by a highly developed awareness and focus on the physical body. Exercise is approached in an orderly, systematic manner with care not to overdo. They follow an established plan in a harmonious environment unless new information or human needs and concerns suggest changing it.

When Introverted intuition is dominant the attraction is to “mind diffusing” exercise that quiets and calms the mind. The week’s activities are envisioned ahead of time, and frequently organized into categories that are planned and carried out throughout the week. They are attracted to the beauty in nature and have a significant preference to exercise outside. They modify their routine from time to time, but only after extensive reflection and consideration.

Familiar, Interesting and Getting It All In the INFJ approach
Mear had been attracted to belly dancing for many years, but until her Astanga yoga teacher announced that she was starting a belly dancing class, she had not pursued this interest.

“I had been thinking about belly dancing since I was a kid and had many conversations and thoughts about it. I knew there were many classes in the Burlington area, but none of them seemed comfortable to me.”

“So what made this belly dancing class right?” I asked.

“I knew the teacher and I knew the fitness center where it was being taught, even though I hadn’t been in that side of the building. Classes were also being taught at the Y, but I’ve never been there and didn’t know the teacher. It would have been a whole different experience. At the Y, I would have to get to know the instructor and learn the layout of the building. Too many new pieces all at once.”

Mear’s natural curiosity keeps her on the lookout for something new and interesting to add to her life. Characteristically, when she tackles something new, she does it by bringing along something familiar. The comfort she feels with her familiar teacher is important as Mear engages in a new class.

It is always fun to see Mear when I drop into the large accounting firm where she is the Administrative Assistant to the CEO. We engage in conversation immediately with a mutual curiosity about what each of us has been doing. Mear’s interests and enthusiasms are wide ranging, from music and art to psychological theories and technical areas. I have known Mear for six years, I see her every few months, and every time I see her, she looks younger, thinner and more energetic. I was eager to hear about her exercise routine, as I have watched her increase her activity through the years.

Mear loves belly dancing, the fun of it, the flow of it, and learning to isolate different parts of her body. In addition to belly dancing once a week, Mear is physically active in a variety of ways. Usually she exercises twice a day. She works out in a nearby gym, at home, or preferably outside. She carefully described and classified her various activities which include a stretching routine, cardio workouts, weight lifting, walks in the evening, hiking, biking and snowshoeing in the winter.

Mear loves the outdoors and is always searching for friends who enjoy outdoor activities. She describes these times spent outdoors with others as “spiritual. This is my time with God.”

Introverted Feeling ISFP, INFP, FSFP, ENFP
Introverted feeling in the dominant or auxiliary process is concerned with internal values and beliefs. These core values are private and non-negotiable. Introverted feeling types are driven toward inner harmony, and are not responsive to peer pressure. Their actions are inspired by and consistent with their core values. People with introverted feeling are typically motivated to exercise in the following ways:
• Attracted to exercise that is aligned with their personal values
• Playful and fun approach to exercise, often with others
• Frequently attracted to exercise with an underlying philosophy or tradition
• Exercise is often spiritual with a mind/body connectedness

ISFP, INFP (Dominant Introverted Feeling)
Dominant introverted feeling types are attracted to exercise that is personally meaningful. When the auxiliary is extraverted sensing, the orientation is toward appreciating and experiencing the details and beauty of the physical environment. When the auxiliary is ex­traverted intuition, the attraction is to the individual experience and the meaning which accompanies it.

Enjoying the Sensing Details of the Environment ISFP
I knew Leonard was an ISFP before we met. His wife, a colleague of mine, invited me to a housewarming party shortly after they moved into their house near a ravine in a rural Vermont town. When I arrived, Leonard was giving a tour of the ravine and the woods nearby. Leonard is an outdoor educator and was skillfully and knowledgeably picking up twigs, leaves, branches, and explaining the details. I talked to Leonard about my work with type and physical exercise and he agreed to be interviewed.

Leonard walks four miles a day. Although he described these walks as mundane, he does them for what he calls “basic maintenance.” He walks during the snow free weather in Vermont. These walks address his sciatica, relax him, and “loosen up all the pressures” of his life. It also keeps him in shape for the more rigorous activities in nature that he really loves.

“I walk four miles every day and it takes one hour and fifteen minutes. I have two walks I do. I alternate walks and reverse the direction which gives me a total of four different walks . I always take binoculars and I identify plants, birds, and animals along the way. I reverse the walks to beat the boredom. When reversed, they are completely different walks and I-see completely different things. Ninety-nine percent of the time I walk alone . It’s more flexible.”

In the summer, Leonard swims at a nearby gorge a swimming hole 35 feet Jong and 10 feet wide. He is careful to go when few people are there and swims 50-100 laps under water. Leonard does not swim in indoor pools because of the chlorine . “I like all exercise outdoors, even in a torrential downpour. Indoors does nothing for me.”

Leonard has been a volunteer for his local division of The Green Mountain Club for over thirty years. He is loyal to his division and refers to it by name before referring to the statewide organization. As a volunteer, he is part a team that maintains the woodland trails. With his team, he digs ditches, clears debris from the trails and throws rocks off the trails.

“Do you ever get lost in the woods?” I asked.

“No problem. I don’t get lost. I don’t worry about it. I carry a compass in the woods and the image of the trails are in my brain. I have contour maps burned in my mind.”

ESFP, ENFP (Auxiliary Introverted Feeling)
Those with auxiliary introverted feeling have a fun loving approach to exercise. They seek variety and a high level of stimulation. They have a strong preference for being outdoors and often enjoy exercising with others. When extraverted sensing is the dominant, the attraction is to action oriented activities that require minimum advance planning. Getting together with others for a game or sport is a great way to be with friends. When extraverted intuition is the dominant, the attraction is to an activity that has personal meaning. Frequently they are attracted to exercise with a mind/body integration that is grounded in a philosophy or tradition.

Personally Meaningful and Fun the ENFP approach
Pat, 55 years old, is tall, handsome and noticeably fit. He is a well-known community leader and president of a large real estate company. Tai chi is the mainstay of Pat’s physical activities. Pat practices tai chi every morning for 30-60 minutes and has been doing so for fifteen years. He always practices outside, even in the middle of a Vermont winter. He has been a neighbor for many years, and it is always a treat when I am driving through the neighborhood at just the right time in the morning to sneak a peak at Pat practicing tai chi on the side lawn.

“Why outside?” I asked Pat.

“When I practice tai chi outside, it is not only exercise, but a meditation. I can’t do it without taking in every conceivable natural piece around me. For 365 days a year, I see the seasons change, I see the same squirrels, I see the blossoms grow into flowers, the leaves come out, then die, and then go through the same process again. I see the rain, I see the sun, I see the darkness, I see the brightness, I see the moon and the sun. I’m totally engaged with everything that is going on around me. And, I’m trying to meditate through it while creating energy.”

While tai chi provides a strong spiritual component in Pat’s life with a beauty and flow of its own, he is active in many other physical activities including astanga yoga, competitive sailing, swimming, water skiing,. tennis, golf, and downhill skiing in the winter.

While this list might seem extensive to many people, to Pat, these activities are fun and as Pat states with a laugh “provide a nice combination in my life.”

Closing
This is the fifth and final article in the series on the connection between type and physical exercise. Interviewing individuals during these past few years and writing these articles for the Bulletin has been fascinating. My research in this area has given me a greater appreciation of the MBTI and the contributions this remarkable instrument can make in improving people’s lives.

My intention in doing this research and writing these articles was to learn about the connection between type and physical exercise. I have developed a substantial amount of research that testifies to this connection. Every day in the medical journals and the media we are bombarded with new data that supports the benefits of physical exercise, yet only a fraction of the population gets the minimum recommended daily exercise. It is my hope that the knowledge I am gathering about the connection between type and a sustainable exercise routine will provide valuable information to the non-exercising population and to those who are searching for ways to improve and keep exercise alive in their lives.

I am continuing to collect data as I work on a book on this topic. I would appreciate hearing from those of you reading the Bulletin who regularly exercise. Your story is valuable and will serve to provide a fuller picture of each type. Please contact me at SuzanneBrue@yahoo.com.

References
Czikszentmihalyi, Mihaly and Jackson, Susan.(1999) Flow in Sports: The Key to Optimal Experiences. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics Press.

Haas, Leona; McAlpine, Robert; and Hartzler, Margaret. (2001) Journey of Understanding. Palo Alto, CA: Consulting Psychologist Press.

Hillman, James.(1971) The Feeling Function. Woodstock, CT: Spring Publications, Inc.

Sharp, Daryl. (1987) Personality Types: Jung’s Model of Typology. Toronto, Canada: Inner City Books.

Thompson, Henry L. (1996) Jung’s Function-Attitudes Explained. Watkinsville, GA: Wormhole Publishing.

This article is reprinted with permission from The Bulletin of Psychological Type.

The Bulletin is a publication of the Association for PsychologicalType.

The Thinking Function and Physical Exercise
APTi Bulletin Vol. 26 No. 3 (2003) by Suzanne Brue

To gather information about the connection between type and physical exercise, I have been interviewing individuals of the 16 types who regularly exercise, asking the following questions:

1. Describe a typical week of exercise.
2. Where do you exercise? What aspect{s} of the environment is {are} important to you?
3. Do you exercise alone or with a friend or family member?
4. What motivates you to exercise? Describe the benefits.
5. Describe your history of physical exercise.
6. What types of exercise, exercise interactions, or environments turn you off?
7. What coaching/training styles work or don’t work for you?
8. What advice would you give people of your type who do not exercise to help them exercise?

This is the first of two articles on the judging functions. It will describe thinking in the extraverted and introverted mode. My next article will be on the feeling function.

Thinking
The thinking function is a rational judging function driven by principles of cause and effect. It links ideas through logical connections and is impersonal in its application of reason to decisions.

Extraverted Thinking
ENTJ, ESTJ, INTJ, ISTJ
Organization, logic, order, and structure guide the outer world of the extraverted thinking types whether in the dominant or auxiliary position. Their manner is decisive and their behavior task focused and results oriented. These extraverted thinking types set goals and create a plan of action to achieve their goals. People with extraverted thinking are typically motivated to exercise in the following ways.
• Exercise with a structure and plan in mind
• Regular and routine
• Motivated by completion of their intention
• Classify exercise into categories

Results driven
ESTJ, ENTJ
Extraverted thinking in the dominant position is characterized by a high energy level, decisiveness, structure, and results. Results are the prime motivation for exercise; these thinking types are not too occupied with whether or not they like to exercise. When the auxiliary is introverted sensing, the structure is based on what was found to work in the past and recommendations from established authorities. People with these types have little interest in experimental or innovative approaches to exercise. Those with introverted intuition as an auxiliary tend to develop an exercise program with categories and routines designed to achieve specific results.
Creating a Program for Results, the ENTJ Way

Brue 1Tricia, an attractive 48-year-old woman, has owned a fashionable woman’s clothing store for over 25 years. In that time, her store has encountered stiff competition, as well as many changes in the women’s clothing business. Tricia is fashionably dressed and her store reflects the current fashion trends . Tricia exercises three to four days a week, incorporating a great deal of variety in her program . In our interview, Tricia was very direct in describing her exercise likes and dislikes .

Tricia likes exercising outside, weather permitting . She particularly enjoys hiking, biking, roller-blading, skiing, and walking . For strength training, Tricia works out on a Bowflex machine in her basement . In addition, she takes a Pilates class once a week at a downtown studio which she describes as “a beautiful space and immaculately clean .”

Tricia used to belong to a fitness center, but recently let her membership lapse. “I now hate going to the gym. The younger, buff guys were treating me like a middle-aged woman. They played music I didn’t like. The TV was always on sports channels. I had no control over what was happening there.”

Tricia exercises because she likes what exercise does for her body. 11 I do it for the end result. However, there’s one thing I love, and that’s ballet. If I had time, I would take a ballet class everyday.”

When I asked Tricia what types of exercise turn her off, she was quick to respond, “I hate running, and I never snowboard. Extreme stuff doesn’t appeal to me. I hate all the kid stuff. I avoid games and competition. I don’t want to took stupid .

“As a kid, I didn’t play sports because I wasn’t a very good runner. However, I was a cheerleader. Whatever I yelled, the people in the stadium yelled back the same thing. I loved that .”

ISTJ, INTJ
Those with extraverted thinking in the auxiliary have a deliberate approach to exercise. Given their powers of concentration, these auxiliary thinking types prefer exercising alone and without interruption . Those with sensing as their dominant, typically approach exercise in a simple and straightforward manner, based on experience and a plan. They resist any exercise that does not make sense to them. Those with intuition as their dominant tend to envision and plan their exercise in categories. They are consistently trying to improve on their exercise programs either by modifying a specific aspect of their routine or by incorporating a change that will increase the effectiveness of their overall exercise program.
Getting the Job Done and Keeping Track, the ISTJ way

“I like exercise that can be measured because I’m not doing it for pleasure.” So began my interview with Ruth, a 55year-old historical writer, well known for her careful and precise research on Lake Champlain .

Ruth described her workouts with characteristic precision and detail. “I go to the ‘Y’ twice a week. I bike for 15 minutes, do the StairMaster for 30 minutes and lift weights between 30 and 45 minutes. I prefer not speaking to anyone when exercising . When the weather is good, I run on the golf course. Because of work, I exercise at the end of the day. I wish I could do it in the morning and get it over with .

“I always put in a program when I’m on the StairMaster. Then I have to do the program whether I like it or not. Writing down and keeping track of my workouts is important to me. The ‘Y’ provides a card to keep track of weight lifting workouts . Filling up the card lets me know that I’m sticking with my program. In addition, I record my workouts in my calendar. I like to see that I’ve done what I said I was going to do.”

Ruth, a dominant introverted sensor has outstanding powers of concentration and has a significant preference for exercising atone . She frequently listens to unabridged books on tape, preferring English novels with a strong plot line, read by a British voice . Listening to these books on tape is an important exercise motivator for Ruth as it is the only time she allows herself to listen to the book.

“I love hiking, being outside in nature. That’s one reason I work out, to stay in shape for outdoor activities, weekend stuff. I also love hiking because there is a goal the top of the mountain. I always go to the top. I love being away from people, not surrounded by people. I notice the plants, the foliage. I really notice the smells. I love the scents of the mountains, the balsams, and the ferns. I notice how the air feels. I love the cool air. When I retire, I want to be outside more, less indoors.”

Introverted Thinking
ISTP, INTP, FSTP, ENTP
Introverted thinking in the dominant or auxiliary position is concerned with subjective analysis, ordering, and clarification of ideas. The analytical flow is inward and their interest is in creating internal order. They apply logic to their assessment of reality. Introverted thinkers are not concerned or motivated toward influencing or winning agreement from others. People with introverted thinking are typically motivated to exercise in the following ways :
• An efficient, often intense, approach to exercise
• Independent and self-directed
• Time of day tends to be flexible
• Specific about instruction (if any) they want to receive
• Often enjoy exercise inside a strategy or game
• Results driven

ISTP, INTP
Image_077Those with introverted thinking in the dominant position approach exercise in what appears to be a very casual, easy-going manner. This outward casualness lives side by side with the attraction to efficiency, the best way to get “from here to there .” Easily getting “lost in thought,” these dominant introverted thinkers often enjoy exercise allowing them long periods of solitary time.

When the auxiliary is sensing, the attraction is toward solitary activities in the physical environment that provide an opportunity to use their outstanding observational skills and natural preparedness. Introverted thinkers with auxiliary intuition are strategic thinkers, constantly engaged in analysis and in search of conceptual clarity. This can result in shifting through various approaches to physical exercise, getting easily bored with an established routine and needing change.
Keeping it Interesting, the INTP way

Derek, at 28, is a recent law school graduate . He is thin, handsome, and well-conditioned. The mainstay of his physical exercise is running. Derek has always been an endurance-oriented athlete, excelling in cross-country skiing and cross-country running in high school. On his college soccer team, he was well-known for his speed and endurance.

Derek always maintains a relatively high level of fitness, although from time to time he falls out of his exercise routine. He gets bored with what he is doing and drops his routine. However, he soon picks it up, with modifications to make it interesting again, and is back on track.

Derek’s exercise program changes according to the seasons. He has a strong preference for being outside and sees exercise as a way of getting outside, especially on a beautiful day. A day of solitary biking seventy or eighty miles, spontaneously stopping at convenience stores to refuel on snacks and water is exhilarating. He is not averse to biking with other people, and has joined a biking club in the past . However, he finds getting too many people involved in an activity inconvenient . Occasionally, he likes to bike or run with another person, as long as they are at his fitness level.

Derek has always enjoyed physically active games. He plays tennis ‘With a friend one day a week. During the spring, he plays Ultimate Frisbee in an organized league. These activities are fun and relaxing, and something he enjoys doing with other people. He is not seriously . competitive in these activities which makes them relaxing, since he is highly motivated to be competent in anything he takes seriously.

At the moment, Derek is running twice a week and weight lifting twice a week. Recently, he began working out with a trainer. “My trainer pushes me. It’s nice. He has a lot of information about the muscle groups and how to more efficiently work them.”

FSTP, ENTP
The introverted thinking function in the auxiliary position provides logic and analysis for the extraverted perceiving types. When the dominant is sensation, the approach to exercise is to seek out active sports and physical activities that excite the strongest sensations and physical realism. Dominant extraverted intuitives tend to pay little attention to their physical needs. Given this tendency, their approach to exercise can take two forms: tightly structure exercise by limiting stimulation and options (being very specific and intense about exercise}, or disguise exercise by staying in the extraverted intuition mode (doing something else at the same time, e.g., walking and talking with a colleague).
Stay In the Present and Never Count Yourself Out the ESTP Approach

Jim, 31, is an investment consultant and a former professional triathlete. Although not presently training and competing at that level, Jim still competes in local triathlons and marathons. Today, he sees his physical conditioning and training as supporting his professional life and other activities, not at the center of it.

For many years, Jim trained full-time. While there is much valuable type information in learning the approach of elite athletes, it is important to note that this is the area in which they have chosen to compete and work. Therefore, their approach to physical exercise is on a completely different level. That being said, there is still much to learn from this ESTP young man and his approach to physical exercise.

Jim is highly motivated by competition. “I always wanted to be a world champion, to be the best.” With a smile, he added, “I still don’t rule myself out.”

Competing is at the center of Jim’s motivation for exercise. Even now, Jim approaches every race with the feeling he can win. “I always go into races thinking that I have a stab at winning. I grew up thinking I had no limitations. I never count myself out.” Jim went on to say, “If you’re not competing, you’re just going to accept ordinary effort. I always do 100%. I always try my hardest.” This seemingly mild young man talked about competition with surprising intensity. “I attack like I’m being chased. It’s life or death. You must keep the attack on.”

“What’s a good coach?” I asked. Jim responded easily, bulleting every characteristic with emphasis:
• “A good coach is there every day.”
• “He knows you and your goals.”
• “He directs his efforts to help you improve.”
• “He is interested in helping you improve.”

At the end of our interview, I asked Jim what recommendations he would give to fellow ESTPs not in an exercise program.

“They should break down goals, that is, long term, intermediate, and short term goals. Then create cards with the goals written on them. Have the cards in front of you every single day. Make sure the cards are in front of you. Put them in a place where they are always visible. The cards should be right in front of you.”

Closing
This piece, the fourth article on the connection between psychological type and physical exercise, has summarized and provided examples on the different approaches to exercise of the thinking types. It is important to note that the actual exercise that is preferred by each type is not significant. The significance lies in the motivation, style, and requirements influencing each type’s approach to and choice of exercise. For instance, an ENTP and an ISTJ could each prefer running as the mainstay of their physical activity, yet use very different motivation to establish and maintain their exercise program. The next article will explore the feeling function and physical exercise.

References
Csikszentmihalyi , Mihaly and Jackson, Susan. (1999). Flow in Sports: The Key to Optimal Experiences and Performances. Champaign, IL: Human Kinetics Press.

Haas, Leona; McAlpine, Robert; and Hartzler, Margaret. (2001) Journey of Understanding. Palo Alto, CA: Consulting Psychologist Press.

Sharp, Daryl. (1987) Personality Types: Jung’s Model of Typology. Toronto, Canada: Inner City Books.

Thompson, Henry L. (1996) Jung’s Function-Attitudes Explained. Watkinsville, GA: Wormhole Publishing.

This article is reprinted with permission from The Bulletin of Psychological Type.
The Bulletin is a publication of the Association for PsychologicalType.

The Intuitive Function and Physical Exercise
APTi Bulletin Vol. 26 No. 2 (2003) by Suzanne Brue

This is the third article (previous articles in APT Bulletin, Vol. 25, No. 3 and Vol. 26, No. 1) in a five-part series on the connection between psychological type and approach to physical exercise. My research in this area indicates different motivations, styles, and requirements influence the approach to physical exercise and environments preferred by each of the 16 types.

To gather information about the connection between type and physical exercise, I have been interviewing individuals of the 16 types who exercise regularly, asking the following questions:

1. Describe a typical week of exercise.
2. Where do you exercise? What aspect(s) of that environment is (are) important to you?
3. Do you exercise alone or with a friend?
4. What motivates you to exercise? Describe the benefits.
5. Describe your history of physical exercise.
6. What types of exercise, exercise interactions, or environments turn you off?
7. What coaching styles work or don’t work for you?
8. What advice would you give people of your type who do not exercise to help them exercise?

For the purpose of this article on intuition and physical exercise, I will provide highlights from selected interviews to illustrate this connection in both the extraverted and introverted expression.

Extraverted Intuition ENTP, ENFP, INTP, INFP
Extraverted intuition in the dominant or auxiliary position is stimulated by the outer world of new ideas and possibilities. Extraverted intuitives are constantly in search of the widest range of new opportunities. They prefer “something else going on” when exercising and are attracted to exercise that occurs inside a philosophy, goal, idea, or purpose depending on whether the auxiliary is Thinking or Feeling. People with extraverted intuition report the following approach to physical exercise:

• An efficient approach to exercise
• Convenience is important
• Often try to disguise exercise
• Can ignore physical needs and easily forget to exercise
• Can easily become bored with exercise routine

ENTP, ENFP
Extraverted intuition in the dominant position is attracted to exercise that connects to the stimulating world of new ideas and possibilities. Their approach to exercise is frequently characterized by an “all or nothing quality.” When the auxiliary is Thinking, they are attracted to efficiency, intensity, and accomplishment. When the auxiliary is Feeling, the attraction is to exercise with personal meaning as they define it for themselves.

Accomplishing Exercise in an Efficient Manner, the ENTP Approach
Robert (ENTP), a 52-year-old chemist, exercises five to seven days a week from his home. He has been following this routine for nearly fifteen years. Robert either rides a recumbent bicycle for thirty minutes at a very high resistance level or walks in his neighborhood for four to five miles, weather and time permitting. His work schedule frequently calls for travel. Wherever he is, he looks for a four to five mile route convenient to where he is staying. He avoids gyms and fitness centers at home and on the road. Of late, he has been considering adding weigh lifting to his program, but thus far has not, stating, “it’s too purely exercise, hard to disguise.”

Robert walks by himself, with his wife, or sometimes with a colleague or associate. He likes to have “walking meetings,” and enjoys the efficiency of walking and talking. He also enjoys walking by himself. “When I walk by myself, I use the time for planning.”

Robert exercises because of the benefits. “Exercise makes me feel better. It reduces my level of anxiety and I sleep better.” When asked if he would prefer to get the benefits without exercising, he answered with a resounding, “You bet!” Exercise is not something Robert particularly enjoys, but he has experienced the benefits so profoundly that he believes he cannot function effectively without regular exercise. He is committed to the routine, and believes he will exercise for the rest of his life.

INTP, INFP
Those with extraverted intuition in the auxiliary position are attracted to exercise that provides them with energy and is consistent with their internal logic or values. Aside from the flexibility and enjoyment of exercising alone, these dominant introverted thinking and feeling types often report enjoying exercise that allows for “solitary activities with other people.” When the dominant is thinking, the attraction is to exercise that enables them to accomplish their self-defined goals and use their strategic thinking. When the dominant is feeling, exercise must have personal meaning and be aligned with their personal values.

Exercise and Play the INFP Way
James (INFP) carefully and with affection described his two modes of exercise for the summer. He characterized one mode as, “disciplined aerobically,” involving a three-mile jog, three to four days a week. James, a former marathoner, stated, “it is important to me to never get so I can’t run a SK race at any time.”

The other mode of activity James describes as, “not aerobically aggressive but I’m not sitting around either.” In this mode, James, a 47-year-old psychologist, fishes in a river near his office as frequently as he can, kayaks two to three times a week with friends, bikes ten to fifteen miles, and walks with his wife. “Kayaking and biking are fun, and I enjoy walking with my wife. It is exercise for her, and I get to spend time with my wife.”

For James, “Exercise is about being as alive as I can possibly be. Play is the most spiritual thing I can do.” James loves gadgets and gear, describing himself as a major “gear head.”

When I asked what types of exercise/exercise environments turn him off, James was clear. “I don’t like football, baseball, or team sports in general, although I’ve always liked volleyball.”

James tends to stay away from fitness centers and organized classes. “I would never go to an aerobics or spinning class. I hate the idea of a drill sergeant in the front of the room yelling, “Go! Go! Go!” Push yourselves harder, harder!”

“I’ve got to be having fun. No thanks to boot camp,” James said, laughing, as we finished our interview on a beautiful sunny day on a park bench in Burlington, Vermont .

Introverted Intuition INTJ, INFJ, ENTJ, ENFJ
Introverted intuition in the dominant or auxiliary position is stimulated by messages from the unconscious about insights, possibilities, and new perspectives. These insights arise in visions from the unconscious to provide stimuli for action. Since introverted intuitives are so preoccupied with these internal visions, they are attracted to exercise with a rhythm that does not require too much attention and response. People with introverted intuition report the following approach to physical exercise:

• Like activities that allow for mental drift
• Exercise program/week is loosely envisioned ahead of time
• Prefer to know the terrain
• Like familiar places and routines
• Attracted to intensity
• Provide own structure for exercise; resist imposed structure
• Repetitive motion is appealing

INTJ, INFJ
Introverted intuition in the dominant position is attracted to exercise that allows for quieting and calming the mind. The activity is typically planned ahead of time. Introverted intuitives approach exercise in an orderly and methodical manner. When thinking is the auxiliary, the orientation is toward achieving results. When feeling is the auxiliary, the motivation is to exercise in the beauty of nature, or with a friend or companion.

Independence is the INTJ way
Julius (INTJ), 60, is an investment consultant. As a high school and college student, Julius was a competitive athlete and describes himself as a “jock” in his youth. Today, Julius has little interest in competition. Although he usually runs a leg of a relay marathon, his goal is not to embarrass himself at this event which he describes as largely social.

Although very physically active and involved in many inside and outside home projects, Julius did not start exercising regularly until 1984. He describes being motivated by an afternoon of raking leaves when his back “popped.” He did not have the strength he thought he should have. It took a while to begin a strength building and exercise program, but since then Julius has been a member of a local health club and exercises on cardio and weight equipment three to four days a week .

Julius chose this particular fitness club which is “off the beaten path” because he knows very few of its members and does not bump into people with whom he socializes or does business. He usually works out at lunchtime, a quiet time for the club. Although Julius rarely interacts with staff or members, he enjoys being in the weight room when there are a few people around.

Julius is motivated to exercise because of the results he gets physically, mentally, and emotionally. He states, “Without exercise, I feel restless, unstable, and weak. Exercise enables me to do things I enjoy doing,such as skiing, and I like the way I look.”

In addition to weight training, Julius enjoys running and biking outside. “Running with someone else is not fun. I like to know my route, gauge my stamina, and zone out. When I’m running, my brain goes to another place. I examine what I’m feeling. I don’t do intellectual work. I zone out when I’m running.”

ENTJ, ENFJ
Those with introverted intuition as an auxiliary enjoy variety in their exercise routine, and approach exercise with a plan envisioned in their mind ahead of time. These dominant extraverted judging types prefer exercise that calms the mind. Those with dominant thinking have a results-oriented approach to exercise, wanting to improve a particular aspect of their physical appearance or performance. The exercise environment must be logically structured to support these goals. Those with dominant feeling prefer exercising at their own pace, enjoying the feeling they are doing their best. They can exercise alone or with others, as long as it is in a friendly, harmonious environment that supports their goals.

Physically Active and Friendly, the ENFJ way
Elizabeth (ENFJ) is a 20-year-old college student, attractive and energetic . I interviewed her while she was on her summer vacation from college, working as a lifeguard at a local swimming pool. Elizabeth said was initially motivated to exercise to avoid gaining “the freshman 15,” which is an extra 15 pounds or so that freshmen in college often gain if they do not intentionally maintain their normal activity level. As a freshman, Elizabeth was matched with a roommate who was very athletic. They did not have much in common and the only way of connecting, as Elizabeth saw it, was by going to the gym together.

This provided the impetus for Elizabeth to get into the routine of exercising at her college gym. From that point on, Elizabeth continued to go to the gym with friends in the afternoon. At the gym, they usually separated and “got into their own worlds,” as Elizabeth described it, but this provided the impetus to maintain the exercise routine.

Elizabeth enjoys a gym where there is sufficient activity. She observed, “It’s weird to walk into a totally empty gym. Aside from that, people watching me is one of my favorite things.”

Elizabeth loves to dance, in addition to structured workouts at the gym. She enjoys music and usually listens to music with a headset when she is exercising on the cardio equipment at the gym or cleaning the swimming pool where she works. As a high school student, Elizabeth was on the basketball team. She spent most of her time on the bench, but loved being part of a sports team and contributing to team morale as a supportive cheerleader.

Closing
Extraverted intuitives and introverted intuitives perceive information through the sixth sense of patterns and possibilities. They differ, however, in focus which greatly influences their approach to physical exercise as these examples suggest. This article completes the exploration of exercise and the perceiving functions. The next article will explore the connection between the thinking function and physical exercise.

References
Csikszentmihalyi, Mihaly and Jackson, Susan. (1999). Flow in Sports: The Key to Optimal Experiences and Performances. Human Kinetics Press.
Haas, Leona; McAlpine, Robert; and Hartzler, Margaret (2001) Journey of Understanding. Palo Alto, CA: CPP.
Sharp. Daryl. (1987) Personality Types: Jung’s Model of Typology. Inner City Books.
Harris, Ann Singer. (1966) Living with Paradox. Pacific Grove, CA: Brooks/Cole Publishing.
Thompson, Henry L. (1966) Jung’s Function-Attitudes Explained. Wormhole Publishing.
Thomson, Lenore. (1998) Personality Type: An Owner’s Manual. Shambala Press.