Movies to Get You Moving
Resolutions already out the window? Rainy weather and short, gloomy days making you forget any fitness aspirations that you dreamed of on New Years Day?
Motivation can be a slow burning process, so why not do something that gives you an excuse to recline for a couple of hours while you wait for the buzz to kick in? Yes, I’m talking about “sports” movies. A great underdog story always gets me a little weepy – but, a lot inspired. If that boxer, runner or even horse can challenge everyone’s expectations and win the cup, then I can get out there and do something, too!
Here’s a list of movies that have inspired me (and countless others, I’m sure) throughout the years. Of course, these are just a few – pick one that gets you moving.
My suggestion for maximum fitness impact is to only watch one at a time – you don’t want to burn yourself out! Motivation is a drink to be sipped, not chugged.
A cult classic (and winner of the 1979 Oscar for Best Original Screenplay), Breaking Away is about the dilemma of what to do after graduation, friendship, class-warfare in a small town in Indiana- and cycling.
Comic Highlight:
Mom: What’s the matter?
Dad: He’s shavin’.
Mom: Well… so what?
Dad: …his legs
Why it’s motivational:
An underdog story with great cycling scenes, including one where the main character, Dave, drafts an 18-wheeler down an Indiana roadway. Want to punch the sky yet?
The Greatest Game Ever Played (2005)
Based on the true story of Frank Ouimet, this movie is about golf, class struggles, and an unlikely chance to play in the 1913 U.S. Open.
Inspirational Quote:
Harry Vardon: Let me tell you something. I came here to win a trophy…. Not for you, not for England, but for sheer bloody pride at being the best… And if Mr. Ouimet wins tomorrow, it’s because he’s the best, because of who he is. Not who his father was, not how much money he’s got, because of who he bloody is!
Why it inspires
It tells the story of not one, but two golfing greats who did it without the benefits of money and privilege.
Rocky (1976)
Like The Greatest Game, Rocky tells the story of an unknown getting his chance in the big leagues. For Rocky, it isn’t about winning, but rather “going the distance” and getting the girl – “Adrian!!”
Inspirational song:
Motivational moment:
Rocky’s famous run up the steps at the Philadelphia Museum of Art.
Bend It Like Beckham (2002)
Jess is a talented athlete, wanting to play professional women’s football. Her traditional Sikh family has other ideas – mainly chapatti and nice husbands.
Great quote:
Anyone can cook aloo gobi, but who can bend a ball like Beckham?
Why it inspires:
A girl-power message that is still really fun, Bend It Like Beckham really makes you want to get out there and, well… bend it!
Chariots of Fire (1981)
Another film based on a true story, Chariots of Fire is about two British runners from very different backgrounds, ultimately competing in the 1924 Summer Olympics. Though it may seem a bit dated, there is a certain nostalgia to this movie and the initial running scene on the beach is classic.
Inspirational quote:
Harold M. Abrahams: If I can’t win, I won’t run!
Sybil Gordon: If you don’t run, you can’t win.
Why it motivates:
The opening song is enough to make me lace up my trainers and go for a run (albeit, in slow motion).
Hopefully this list has inspired you to get up and get moving. Happy resolution-keeping!
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