Host Vanessa Leone welcomed special guest John Polley, a speaker and educator on wellbeing and performance at The Next Level. The two engaged in a conversation about the importance of making exercise enjoyable and how it impacts overall fitness outcomes.
In the latest episode of the podcast, Vanessa and John Polley explored the often-overlooked aspect of fitness: enjoyment. John Polley, an expert in wellbeing and performance, shared his unique perspective on how incorporating enjoyment into exercise routines can significantly enhance fitness results and overall well-being.
John began by discussing the concept of interoception—the awareness of internal bodily states. He highlighted that understanding how one’s body feels internally can lead to more effective and sustainable fitness practices. Rather than focusing solely on physical goals, John stressed the importance of addressing mental and emotional factors that influence exercise success.
Drawing from his extensive experience, John shared a compelling example involving a long-term client. This client faced intense work demands for several months each year, leading to physical breakdowns when trying to maintain high levels of exercise during those times. By adjusting the training approach to align with the client’s fluctuating energy levels and stress, they were able to prevent injuries and maintain a more consistent and effective fitness regimen.
The conversation also touched on the significant impact of emotional states on exercise performance. John referenced research and personal anecdotes to illustrate how positive emotions can boost physical performance. He noted that being in a good mood can trigger a flow state, enhancing overall performance. John integrates humour and positive interactions into his training sessions to keep clients engaged and motivated, which, in turn, leads to better results.
John’s approach to fitness revolves around making exercise enjoyable. He encourages clients to rate their enjoyment of different exercises and to tailor their routines based on this feedback. This method ensures that clients remain committed to their fitness goals and experience improved physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
Additionally, John envisioned a “Rainbow Land” scenario where mainstream and alternative health practices are seamlessly integrated. He believes that many alternative practices, often viewed as unconventional, align closely with our natural design and should be embraced as part of a holistic approach to health and fitness.
John concluded with practical advice for those looking to explore interoception and emotional aspects of exercise. He recommended focusing on what clients enjoy the most and using that as a foundation to create engaging and effective fitness routines. Simple adjustments, like changing the type of music or incorporating playful elements, can make a significant difference in the exercise experience.
This insightful episode with John Polley provided valuable strategies for optimising fitness outcomes through enjoyment and emotional well-being. Listen now and discover how prioritising joy and consistency can transform your fitness journey.
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LinkedIn – John Polley
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John Polley, a leading movement coach and educator, has revolutionised the fitness industry with his playful and effective approach. Based in Perth, Australia, he has garnered a dedicated following for his ability to transform exercise into an enjoyable and transformative experience. Through his mentorship program, The Next Level, he empowers fitness professionals with the tools to unlock their clients’ full potential by combining physical movement with mental and emotional well-being.
Vanessa is a seasoned Movement Therapist with a vast array of skills and experiences in the industry. Her goal is to help as many people find betterment in their lives. She is known as a hybrid trainer, attaining high levels of education, and delivering a quality presenting experience in both group fitness and personal training streams. Attaining betterment drives her knowledge and pursuit for further education for herself and everyone she encounters. Vanessa continues training clients and trainers all over the country and presenting at the International Fitness Conference. Vanessa’s ethos is doing things BETTER.
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