Enneagram Type 6 (The Loyalist) Fitness Personality
Enneagram Type 6 individuals—aka "The Loyalist" or "The Questioner"—may struggle with exercise due to their cautious, security-oriented, and anxious personality traits.
Enneagram Type 6 Exercise Struggles
Here are some common challenges and potential struggles an Enneagram Type 6 may face when it comes to exercise:
Anxiety and Fear of Injury: Type 6s are prone to worry and may be anxious about potential exercise-related injuries or accidents. This fear can make you avoid certain physical activities or hesitate to push yourself out of your comfort zone.
Uncertainty and Indecisiveness: Type 6s often seek reassurance and validation from others. When choosing an exercise routine, you may become indecisive. You may also wonder if you're making the right choice and fear criticism.
Trust Issues: Type 6s may find it challenging to trust exercise instructors or follow workout programs—finding them unreliable or untrustworthy.
Safety Concerns: Type 6s have a strong desire for safety and security. You may be cautious when trying new exercises or activities you think are risky or unsafe.
Need for Structure: Type 6s appreciate structure and routine. If your exercise routine lacks consistency or clear direction, you may find it difficult to stay motivated.
Comparing Themselves to Others: Type 6s often compare their fitness journey to others, leading to self-doubt or feeling inadequate. These feelings can set back your motivation and enjoyment of exercise.
Physical Manifestation of Stress: Type 6s can experience physical tension when stressed or anxious. This can make it challenging to do some exercises comfortably.
Escaping Anxiety with Inactivity: In some cases, Type 6s may cope with anxiety by avoiding exercise altogether. You may also resort to sedentary behaviors.
How to Improve Your Relationship with Exercise
To overcome these challenges, here are some strategies that may help Type 6s create a more positive exercise experience:
Reducing Anxiousness: Type 6s have a natural tendency to anticipate potential dangers can sometimes manifest as anxiety, as they often overthink and worry about worst-case scenarios. This constant vigilance can be mentally exhausting and lead to feelings of unease and stress. One effective way for Enneagram 6s to manage anxiety is through regular exercise. Physical activity helps reduce stress hormones like cortisol, boosts mood-enhancing endorphins, and provides a sense of control and grounding that can alleviate worry.Exercise helps a 6 feel more centered and resilient.
Build Trust: Work out in a safe and supportive exercise environment where you feel comfortable expressing your concerns and fears. This may include a virtual online community (shout out to Expecting and Empowered App users!) or a helpful instructor. Don't be afraid to ask questions about exercise techniques!
Gradual Progression: Start with low-intensity exercises and gradually progress to more challenging activities. Starting slowly can help you build confidence and reduce anxiety about potential injuries.
Celebrate Your Achievements: No matter how small, take pride in your exercise wins and progress.
Choose Structured Programs: Try exercise programs with a clear structure and guidelines that provide direction and stability (like the E+E App!).
Add Mindfulness Practices: Incorporate mindfulness techniques—like diaphragmatic breathing—into your exercise routine. This can help you manage anxiety and stay present during your workouts.
Focus on Health Benefits: Don't just focus on the appearance and performance of exercise. Working out has excellent health benefits like improved well-being, reduced stress, and increased energy levels.
Set Realistic Goals: Set achievable and manageable fitness goals, and remember, progress is still meaningful if it has ups and downs.
Be Consistent: Create a regular exercise routine to help you build confidence and familiarity with physical activities.
Type 6s can develop a more positive and fulfilling relationship with exercise by finding supportive exercise environments and following structured programs. Remember, everyone is unique! These suggestions may not apply to every Enneagram Type 6. It's important to listen to your own needs, preferences, and limitations when it comes to exercise.
Enneagram Type 6 moms often need support and clear structure to relieve any worries around exercise. Pregnancy and postpartum can also be extremely difficult times to know how to work out safely. The Expecting and Empowered App has you covered with our movement experts! Created by two moms with a personal training and physical therapy background, the E+E app offers easy-to-follow and expert-backed workouts that are safe for your changing body.
Working out, in general, can reduce stress and anxiety. The E+E app can help Type 6s further manage their anxieties with step-by-step progressions that give you the structure and confidence to succeed! Programs work on basics like core and breathing while gradually progressing to more dynamic and whole-body movement. Each workout has clear instructions and videos showing the correct form and movement. Workouts are also designed to last only 30 minutes, so you can realistically fit in exercise.
SOURCES:
Ma X, et al. (2017). The Effect of Diaphragmatic Breathing on Attention, Negative Affect and Stress in Healthy Adults. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5455070/
Mandolesi L, et al. (2018). Effects of Physical Exercise on Cognitive Functioning and Wellbeing: Biological and Psychological Benefits. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5934999/
Wender CLA, et al. (2022). The Effect of Chronic Exercise on Energy and Fatigue States: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Trials. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9206544/