Start Enjoying Exercise Using the Peak-End Rule

"Lately, my workouts have felt like a tedious chore. The spark is gone. I used to get "in the zone" and experience blissful flow every time I did cardio, but no longer do. These days, what I call superfluidity-a state of frictionless flow where vigorous workouts feel effortless-is very elusive. It rarely happens during my treadmill runs; elated transcendence has been replaced by ho-hum routine."

"The peak-end rule builds on this idea, elucidating why a single memorable moment and a pleasurable finish can make you want to do it all over again, no matter how much you struggled in the middle. You can tap into the power of these concepts at the gym:"

"Why do some workouts live on in your mind as eudaimonic experiences you want to repeat, while others get relegated to the "never again" bin? Over a century ago, psychologist Edward Thorndike gave us a clue with his Law of Effect: we're wired to repeat behaviors that end in satisfaction and avoid those that conclude on a sour note."

Workouts that contain an emotionally powerful peak and a satisfying ending are remembered more positively than their full duration. The Law of Effect explains a tendency to repeat activities that end well and avoid those that end poorly. The peak-end rule and duration neglect mean memory focuses on the high point and the finish rather than the middle slog. Creating one extraordinary moment each session, downplaying the tedious middle, and intentionally ending on a happy note can make exercise feel more rewarding. Positive recollections and frequent rewarding follow-ups increase the likelihood of sticking with a workout routine.

Read at Psychology Today