Fitness is an attitude, a way of living and a way of treating yourself. The word “fitness” refers not only to physical condition but also to a series of behaviors and attitudes toward the self. In its broadest sense, fitness means being healthy and happy. It is a comprehensive concept that includes but is not limited to healthy eating, adequate sleep, regular exercise and progressive discipline and motivation.
“Fitness” in this sense does not refer to a specific set of physical processes or a particular set of exercises. Fitness is an overall state of well-being and physical health and, more importantly, the capacity to do different parts of ordinary activities, jobs and sports. Ideally, fitness implies persistence and progressive efficiency in doing daily tasks despite the challenges. Fitness is usually achieved through adequate rest, proper nutrition and moderate-to-intensive physical activity. These activities should be coupled with progressive training for the development of muscular strength and endurance.
Fitness is important for both childhood and adult development. Through childhood, physical fitness helps to prepare kids to adapt to school and society, as well as to cope with the stress of growing up. By adulthood, individuals are more likely to have healthy habits that promote mental well-being such as job satisfaction and stress management. Adequate physical fitness also helps to protect the body’s ability to recover from stress.
Although well-being depends on healthy diets, sufficient sleep, regular exercise and progressive training, low fitness levels are often associated with unhealthy lifestyles, which can also contribute to unhealthy aging. Low fitness levels are often associated with sedentary pursuits and poor nutritional habits. Some people may also find it difficult to exercise or engage in physical activity because they are too lazy or afraid. For others, it may be a combination of these factors that contribute to their lack of fitness. Low fitness levels are not just an issue of laziness or unwillingness; rather, they are a matter of personal choice and lifestyle.
There are various factors that contribute to someone’s fitness level, but there is one universal factor: diet. In order to get the most out of a workout or physical activity, a person must eat the proper foods in the right amounts to provide the necessary energy to function. In addition to the physical benefits of diet, an eating plan is an effective way to promote good health. Proper nutrition promotes long-term fitness, a higher body fat percentage, better immune function and longer life.
The best way to be fit and healthy is to exercise regularly and eat a healthy, low-calorie diet. Strength training promotes the proper functioning of cardiovascular and skeletal systems. It increases heart rate, lowers blood pressure and increases muscle strength. It also builds bone mass and helps to reduce the risks of osteoporosis, a common condition resulting from decreased strength and mobility.