Is it possible for two people to do the exact same exercises and get different results?
In one study a rat was able to run on its wheel voluntarily whenever it wanted for as long as it wanted. In the next cage a second rat’s wheel was attached to the first rat’s wheel by an electric motor so that whenever the first rat ran the second was forced to run also. Thus, the two rats did the same amount of exercise and should get the same results, right?
It turns out that the second rat did not get anywhere near the same cardiovascular benefits as the first because the first rat’s running was voluntary while the second rat’s was forced.
We often approach fitness like the second rat, forcing ourselves to hit the treadmill or hiring personal trainers to force us to lift weights. Studies show that you will actually get better results if you take Oprah’s advice and stick with exercise that feels right to you. Would you rather skip the gym for a sunset jog? Go for it!