The experience of exercising at the gym will be felt physiologically (getting hot, out-of-breath, sweating) and psychological (feeling good because you’re exercising, feeling that you look silly because of your technique or what you’re wearing). Learning how to use equipment properly, ensuring there is a welcoming atmosphere at the gym, and women only gym sessions could work to enhance the experience of exercising. Similarly, the impacts of exercising can be physiological (the release of endorphins, feeling fitter and stronger, getting injured) and psychological (feeling less worried about health, being complimented by friends). The application of social media to exercise (such as the running app Strava) directly influence the outcome of exercise by providing an individual and social reward.
If exercising was a horrible experience or the gym turned out to be very difficult to access, you are less likely to go back, i.e. it feeds back into your motivation and decision-making. In contrast, if you got a substantial hit of endorphins and lots of praise on social media, your inclination to go to the gym is likely to be enhanced. Modern technology, such as fitness trackers produced by Apple and Garmen, can provide health information, therefore enhancing the feedback loop by making health benefits clearer.
What Works Behaviour Change