We often speak and hear about health and fitness. Both these words in today’s times have become part of people’s daily lingo. But, how many actually know the meaning of these words or is it just a fad to talk about health and fitness.
In reality, both the words health and fitness have totally different meanings and concepts.
Let us first try and understand the term ‘HEALTH’. There is well known adage- ‘HEALTH IS WEALTH’. Health refers to the absence of disease and that all the systems in the body be it the Central Nerves System, Cardio vascular system, respiratory system or any other systems they are working perfectly and together. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) health is a state of complete physical mental and social well- being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity.
Now let’s understand what’s fitness? Fitness refers to the degree of body functioning and ability of the body to handle physical demands. If the body is functioning more effectively and more efficiently it indicates greater or higher level of fitness. Any physical activity strenuous or non-strenuous requires one to have some basic fitness. Even climbing stairs requires one to be fit.
Involving yourself in physical activities can bring about some basic level of fitness. Physical activity is defined as any bodily movement produced by the skeletal muscles that required energy expenditures. Physical exercise is as much as important as food and sleep.
If we do not use the organs of our body then our body responds saying ‘Use it or lose it’. Leading a sedentary lifestyle leads to hypokinetic complications. Proper and regular exercise results in handsome amount of benefits that includes physical as well as mental benefits.
To take up any physical activity you need to set for yourself a fitness goal. The goal is set as per your requirement and the way your body responds. While setting a fitness goal for yourself make sure you are not focusing only on the fitness aspect but, also taking into account the health aspects.
Regular involvement in physical activity results in physical, mental as well as social wellbeing.
To be contd…..in Part 2
Thanks for pointing out that daily exercise and eating healthy is the key. My cousin is trying to get in shape after an accident a few years ago, and he has been trying to get himself motivated.