One year ago, I shared my Movement Menu here. (which has changed since, by the way)
Three months ago, I wrote about why it’s great for your health.
TLDR: A movement menu is about giving yourself options.
It’s a list of exercises you love and can rely on regardless of your mood.
It’s a way to keep evolving and growing in your exercise routine over time.
What are the Advantages of a Movement Menu?
Think about the last time you ate at a restaurant.
As you’re going over all the food, you’re trying to decide based on what you’re craving, what you can afford, and how you feel.
Most of the time, you make those food choices based on your mood.
The Movement Menu is the same.
- It’s a list of exercises for any preference, mood, and time.
- It allows for variety and adaptability.
- You’re never forced to stick with any one activity.
Choosing what appeals to you makes exercise more enjoyable.
Where can a Movement Menu fall short?
But someone recently pointed out the flaw to me:
By focusing only on what you like, you might skip important things that aren’t fun.
You might enjoy running and cycling, but avoid strength training because it’s uncomfortable.
Over time, this can lead to imbalances.
And long term you’ll end up overlooking areas of your health.
Introducing “The Movement Portfolio”
In your Movement Portfolio, you’re strategically choosing a diverse set of movements instead of just doing your favorite exercises.
A Movement Portfolio is goal-oriented and strategic.
Every activity has a purpose in moving you closer to your health goal, whether it’s longevity, sports, or pain relief.
Creating a well-rounded Movement Portfolio ensures balanced fitness, even if it means doing exercises you don’t love.
So… Movement Menu or Movement Portfolio?
When starting your fitness journey, a Movement Menu is perfect.
At this stage, the most important thing is to establish a consistent daily movement habit.
Focus on exploring different activities and finding what you enjoy instead of optimizing every workout.
A Movement Menu allows you to choose exercises that feel good and fit your lifestyle.
Once regular exercise is part of your routine, you can transition to a more strategic Movement Portfolio to take your fitness to the next level and work towards specific goals.
But first, prioritize joyful movement each day in a way that works for you.
What makes more sense to you?
A Movement Menu?
Or a Movement Portfolio?
Let me know your thoughts.