Often we find ourselves just wanting to relax and stay on the couch all day watching movies on Netflix. I’m guilty of this myself. Sometimes I find myself wanting to binge-watch films at home instead of head out to the gym on some weekends. But why not watch films that will get you motivated instead?
There are plenty of films that are centered around fitness and these movies will push you to invest in your health and well-being. Or perhaps even convince you to sign up for a gym membership.
Coach Carter (2005)
Coach Carter is the real-life story of legendary basketball coach Ken Carter who made a lasting impact on the Richmond High School basketball team. Coach Carter’s approach was unconventional – he emphasized on attitude and discipline. He pushed his players to excel not only athletically but also academically, and instilled in them a strong sense of team unity and personal growth.
The Karate Kid (1984)
“Wax on, wax off.”
This iconic line from “The Karate Kid” (1984) may be more memorable than:
“First learn stand, then learn fly. Nature rule, Daniel-san, not mine.” But both are just as meaningful.
The Karate Kid imparted vital life lessons about training the mind and spirit, how to balance our inner and outer selves, to overcome fear, maintain humility, and to evolve through life’s challenges.
Rocky Film Franchise (1970s – 2000s)
I bet hearing Rocky Balboa say, “It ain’t about how hard you hit. It’s about how hard you can get hit and keep moving forward” will make you want to get off the couch and head to the gym, huh?
Boxing fans and Stallone enthusiasts alike will find a marathon of all the “Rocky” films a must-do. Perhaps you can dedicate a weekend watching these films and who knows it might inspire you to work on your own mental and physical strength.
Warrior (2011)
Tom Hardy delivers an intense performance in “Warrior” (2011). It’s a gripping MMA film in which his character prepares to face his brother in a major tournament final.
“I’m just gonna keep takin’ fights until somebody says I can’t.”
This movie portrays Hardy’s character with a physicality and determination that seems unstoppable.
Eddie The Eagle (2016)
“Eddie The Eagle” is a sports comedy movie inspired by the true story of ski jumper and Olympian Michael Edwards who was known by the name “Eddie The Eagle.”
Here’s one of the most popular lines in the film:
“The most important thing in the Olympics is not the winning but the taking part; the essential thing in life is not conquering but fighting well.”
The film encourages viewers to root for the underdog and highlights the power of self-belief as well as the impact of having a supportive companion in achieving your dreams.
McFarland, USA (2015)
McFarland, USA is a sports drama based on the true story of Jim White (Kevin Costner) and his cross-country team at McFarland High School. This film resonates the most with runners, particularly those who are balancing multiple commitments. It also works for anyone aspiring to reach their full potential. Watching this movie is basically a call to get off the couch and start preparing for the long run ahead, what do you say?
Pain & Gain (2013)
“I believe in fitness” is the opening line of this dark comedy starring Mark Wahlberg and Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson. It revolves around two Florida bodybuilders who pursue wants to the American dream but had to deal with murder along the way. At least they looked good doing it.
Cool Runnings (1993)
If you were born in the 70s and 80s then you would be familiar with “Cool Runnings.” It’s a hilarious and heartwarming sports comedy about the Jamaican bobsled team’s debut at the 1988 Winter Olympics.
Cool Runnings underscores the importance of support, teamwork, and the idea that skills are transferable. And more importantly, that nothing is set in stone. As Sanka said, “Feel the rhythm! Feel the rhyme! Get on up, it’s bobsled time!”
Million Dollar Baby (2004)
“People die every day, Frankie. Moppin’ floors, washin’ dishes, and you know what their last thought is? I never got my shot.” Million Dollar Baby is a story about risking everything for a dream visible only to oneself. Narrated by Morgan Freeman, it stars Hilary Swank and Clint Eastwood.
Spirit of the Marathon (2007)
“Spirit of the Marathon” is a 2007 documentary about six runners from around the globe as they prepare for and participate in the 2005 Chicago Marathon. It tells about the physical and mental challenges they face and the fulfillment they get from the experience.
In the words of Deena Kastor, “Sometimes the moments that challenge us the most, define us.”
42 (2013)
“42” is an inspirational and emotional recount of Jackie Robinson, who was a Black baseball player who broke the color barrier in Major League Baseball with the Dodgers. The film starred Harrison Ford and Chadwick Boseman and was set in the 1940s. “You want a player who doesn’t have the guts to fight back?” – Jackie Robinson
Invincible (2006)
“Invincible” tells the true story of Vince Papale (Mark Wahlberg) a struggling Philadelphia guy who earns a spot on the Eagles through an open tryout at the age of 30. It tells the story of how he overcame great odds and made it to the NFL.