The Movie That Motivates Me to Be Fitter (and Get My Groove on)

Just look at those strong arms!

Seeing that we’re all still abuzz from the Oscars, we thought that for this Question of the Week we’d keep the movie-love going by asking each FBG: What movie motivates you to be fitter? Enjoy the responses, and be sure to leave your own fave fit movie in the comments!

There are so many good answers to this question. So many. And I’m super excited to see what flicks the other girls pick, but I knew—right from the moment we decided on this question—what my answer would be: How Stella Got Her Groove Back. Have you seen this movie? It’s amazeballs.

First, Taye Diggs is in it and is, like, jaw-droppingly hot. Second, it’s in Jamaica (which I love even more now that I’ve been there!). And third—and most importantly—Angela Bassett is a beast in it. And I mean that in the best, I-want-to-be-her way possible. She is just ripped and strong. And 40 years old. And, again, having a fling with Taye Diggs in tropical paradise. (Yes, I know the story goes far beyond just that, but, really, my favorite part is the first half before all the seriousness goes on.)

She confidently rocks a swimsuit. She settles into herself by loosening up and dancing and laughing and not taking herself so seriously. She eats healthy food. She goes running—and super fast. She stands up for herself. She’s loyal and loving to the people in her life. AND, she has strong and cut arms that even Michelle Obama would covet. Seriously.

Any time I pop this movie in (which is at least a couple times a year—I own the DVD), I always feel inspired to run a little faster and lift a little heavier. Which is why, of all the movies out there, it’s the No. 1 flick that motivates the heck out of me! (And makes me want to go back to Jamaica.)

Have you ever watched a movie and instantly been inspired enough to bust out some push-ups or go for a run? Does How Stella Got Her Groove Back do it for you, too? —Jenn