The Martlet

I know what you’re thinking.

You’re thinking, “Oh look, it’s the New Year and they’re going to tell me why I should get to the gym. Then I’ll embarrass myself while the entire men’s varsity rowing team watches me struggle all the way to sit-up number five. Great.”

For those who made a resolution to engage in more physical activity and get fit, you may not have to start at the gym. If you’re looking for something new, why not try basing your fitness regime on the Big Five personality traits?

To begin, go to: personality-testing.info/tests/BIG5.php to take The Big Five Personality Test. If you were dubbed as someone who is:

OPEN TO EXPERIENCE

You are inventive and curious; you need variety and adventure and are up for unusual ideas. To sum it up: a treadmill in front of a mirror just ain’t gonna do it for you. You’re the hey-let’s-make-a-human-catapult-and-see-what-happens kind of person.

Some activities you will want to try: Bike polo, Quidditch, rock climbing (Victoria has two gyms with student rates), wife carrying (Google it — the man carries a female over his shoulder and races with other men), Octopush (underwater hockey, which could easily be set-up at McKinnon pool), snorkeling, skiing or snowboarding. Looking for something a little more low-key? Try trail running or hiking — something with a little surprise. Just make sure to choose somewhere with a view.

CONSCIENTIOUS

You are organized and self-disciplined; you strive for accomplishment and would rather have everything planned out instead of going with the flow. You get things done, and get them done right.

You might be just the person for the gym. You can create an easy-to-follow schedule and get into your own zone.

You’ll most likely prefer individual sport, rather than team sports. You’ll enjoy things like running and hiking, yoga, Pilates, marathons, triathlons, biking or swimming laps. When you workout, you’ll likely think of it as a checklist — cardio, weight training, stretching, etc.

If you’re new at the whole gym thing, make a list and try whatever you can at home first — that way, you won’t be walking circles around the equipment and mats, wondering what you should do.

EXTROVERT

You are outgoing and energetic, and thrive on the company of others. You also tend to have a more positive mindset. All of these factors make you a great team player. It’s simple; you’re going to want to try something team-oriented. Here are a few options: soccer, volleyball, basketball, tennis, badminton, hockey, rugby, field hockey. There are teams for every skill level at UVic. Sign up for intramurals. If you are a little more competitive, many of the club teams on campus participate in tournaments. Both are a friendly way to try something new and to do what you do best: Meet people!

Take a spin class with a bunch of friends as another option. Or, maybe a cardio boot camp dare? All are available on campus.

AGREEABLE

You are friendly, compassionate and cooperative. You could be persuaded to try most things, but contact sports may not be for you.

You are also a team player, and any team benefits from someone who cooperates and provides support to the team. You like to take time for others, and so getting your sweat-on with a friend or two would be enjoyable for you. You might like to take a yoga class with your mom or catch up with a friend over a morning jog. If you’re looking to try something new, go with a friend for support.

You are easygoing and open, and high intensity sports and activities may also be for you because you keep things cool and calm. It’s all about trying different things and seeing what you like. So make a list of five different activities and get moving.

NEUROTICISM

You aren’t as easy to please. You are sensitive and nervous, become anxious much easier than most people and can be easily upset.

You are going to want to focus on immersing yourself in an atmosphere that’s supportive and friendly. Intramurals are a good way to do this. Instead of signing up alone, find some friends and sign up as a team.

Unless you are already a gym-goer, you’ll want to avoid it. You might feel like people are watching or judging you.

Trail running, hiking and biking are good options, and don’t let your nervousness keep you from trying something new — bring a friend to keep you calm!