Eleven Inspirational Films About Fitness

by Lewis Robinson

Sometimes it can be difficult to get yourself motivated to do something else besides sit on the couch and watch TV. But if you're watching TV anyway, why not watch something that will get you motivated to get up and exercise? Here are some movies that will be sure to do that.

Rocky

Everyone knows this one. From the classic training montage through the streets of DC and up the steps of the Lincoln Memorial to the intense boxing match at the end, this film roots for the underdog and is inspiring for everyone. Too bad Rocky lost at the end, though. Maybe he would've won if he was on the gomad diet.

Karate Kid

This is another classic, starring Ralph Macchio and Pat Morita, where an old karate master trains a teenager as he struggles to defend himself against school bullies and navigate the choppy waters of high school love. It's packed full of lessons about training the mind, body and spirit, as well as overcoming fear and staying humble.

Spirit of the Marathon

This documentary chronicles the journey of five different runners as they train for the 26.2 mile Chicago marathon. It does a good job capturing the grit and determination involved in running great distances and will inspire you whether or not you're a runner.

Coach Carter

Coach Carter is about a high school basketball coach who inspired a high school basketball team to excel in life, as well as on the court. His emphasis on education was one of the things that differentiated him from the average high school basketball coach and his lessons can inspire us all.

Fittest on Earth

The CrossFit Games could be called the Olympics of working out, and this documentary follows athletes as they train for this multi-day event. It chronicles their struggles and triumphs as they try to compete and win each of the games.

Million Dollar Baby

Million Dollar Baby follows Hilary Swank as she struggles to become a professional female boxer. With themes like "risking everything for a dream that nobody sees but you", this one is sure to get you motivated to pursue your goals.

McFarland, USA

This is a sports drama about real-life coach Jim White who inspired a cross country team at McFarland High School to be more than they thought they could be. If you struggle to balance your passions and commitments and yet strive to be more, then this film is for you.

Cool Runnings

This sports comedy follows the first-ever Jamaican bobsled team as they train for the Winter Olympics. The themes of teamwork and friendship are laced throughout this film and show that we all need support in order to follow our dreams.

Bend It Like Beckham

Bend It Like Beckham is a romantic comedy that follows Jess and Juliette, two amateur soccer players from different backgrounds who struggle to defy the expectations of their families to pursue their dreams. This film shares the message that we all have our own paths to take and face our own trials.

42

This film follows the true story of Jackie Robinson, a black baseball player who had to struggle with living in a segregated society and push through the barriers inherent in a whites-only Major Baseball League. His experience created a stepping stone toward social change and provides good life lessons for everyone.

Billy Elliot

Billy Elliot is about a boy who develops a passion for ballet and must struggle against the negative stereotypes associated with male ballet dancers. This film shows how strenuous dancing can be on the muscles and requires a high level of dedication and focus.

Hopefully, these movies will inspire you to get off the couch, lace up those sneakers and get your body moving.