Rage Workouts

Name: Rage workouts.

Age: Is it time to reference Aristotle’s views on catharsis?

Appearance: Pumped-up, red-faced, looking a bit intense, maybe even on the verge of an outburst.

Is this just about being angry at the gym? Like, this morning, I saw someone occupying the machine I needed, just scrolling on his phone? Close, but not exactly. This isn’t merely about feeling frustrated while working out; it’s more about channeling that anger to fuel your exercise.

So, what do we mean? Just let some steam off? Or perhaps blasting some Eminem? It primarily involves striking a tractor tire with a sledgehammer.

That sounds like just a high-rep shoulder and core routine. True, but the idea is symbolic. You could really be hitting anything with that hammer.

Like my broken tumble dryer or that driver who cut me off yesterday? Exactly, you’re getting the hang of it.

Is some exercise just inherently angry? Well, yes. But now, the anger seems to be the main focus. In Knoxville, Tennessee, there’s a rage-themed HIIT class where participants can vent their frustrations on various objects—ropes, punch bags, and yes, tractor tires.

That sounds interesting. In Newcastle, England, there’s even a class specifically aimed at unleashing feminine rage, where attendees express themselves through loud screams while punching and lunging. One regular, Lauren Peters, shared that the screaming is “guttural, loud, emotional, and just what we need.”

But aren’t there actual rage rooms for this kind of thing? Sure, there are many places where, for a fee, you can smash ceramics or old appliances with a baseball bat. However, that can get costly and messy to clean up.

This seems like a great alternative. It’s not as straightforward as it sounds. In 2002, researcher Brad Bushman from Iowa State University revealed that venting anger physically may not be effective.

Really? Yes, apparently. His research suggests that venting physically can actually escalate feelings of anger. He mentioned that people who violently hit inanimate objects are mostly just, well, practicing being aggressive.

So, do those who attend these classes just end up angrier? It seems that way, according to the study. Catharsis—seeking relief through various physical outbursts—might not be the best method for managing anger.

What’s the recommended approach then? Surprisingly, doing nothing might be the most effective way.

That doesn’t sound right. But it appears to be true. Bushman found that the least angry individuals in his study were those who simply sat quietly for two minutes instead of engaging in any physical activity.

So, no hammers and tires? Not really. Come join my new gym instead. It’s completely empty, and you won’t have to lift a finger. You’ll feel at ease, and I’ll profit. Everyone wins.

Do say: “I am wildly angry all the time.”

Don’t say: “Isn’t it better if I just hold it all in until something goes wrong?”