Fitness

Ah yes, this word has been placated all over the world like none other. Everybody knows it, everybody can taste it. But almost none can really define it. A ghost of a ghost of a word.

But all it means is “having all 5 Physical Performance Attributes on the same level or higher as the daily activities physical requirement”.

A little bit confusing, isn’t it? But it becomes really simple after you have read the article.

What is Fitness?

What are the 5 physical performance attributes? These are attributes of the muscle that are responsible for operating in the world around us, which is essential, even if you sit in behind the desk all day. Or should I say especially? (back and neck pain intensify).

1. Strength (lifting capacity)
2. Endurance (small percentage of lifting capacity over time)
3. Speed (decreasing time of execution of a movement)
4. Flexibility (length the muscle can stretch)
5. Coordination (Central Nervous System control. Technique and Muscle Cell recruitment)

Each one of us has a certain level of each attribute and that is used in out daily tasks. Now, the physical requirements on the other hand, are basically what the word says, you require a certain amount of strength, endurance, etc. in order to do your daily tasks.

Now, imagine a scale where the requirement is on one side and the level of the attributes on the other. If the scale is equal or the attribute level is above, its called being “Fit”. If the attributes are lower, then you are “not Fit”.

See how simple it is? Now combine the level of each attribute, mix them together and you get a “fitness level” that can be compared to different tasks like lifting a certain amount of weight or run a marathon. If you are “fit” enough, you will be able to manage to do the work “without much damage”.

And every activity that has the “aim” to raise that “Fitness level” is called “FITNESS”.

MINDBLOWN… I know.

Fitness Training Benefits

Now, we come to the most important question, how can fitness make you the sharpest edge on the entire planet?

Let me give you 5 arguments for that:

1. Fitness Improves Mental Health: Regular physical activity boosts mood, reduces stress, and lowers the risk of depression and anxiety by releasing endorphins and improving brain function.
2. Cardiovascular Health Benefits: Exercise like running or cycling strengthens the heart, lowers blood pressure, and improves circulation, reducing the risk of heart disease.
3. Strength Training Builds Bone Density: Weight-bearing exercises, such as lifting weights, increase bone density, helping to prevent osteoporosis, especially as you age.
4. Flexibility Enhances Performance: Incorporating stretching or yoga improves flexibility, reduces injury risk, and enhances muscle coordination and range of motion.
5. Exercise Boosts Sleep Quality: Regular physical activity promotes better sleep by helping you fall asleep faster and enjoy deeper, more restorative sleep cycles.

BONUS

Fitness helps against depression and anxiety: A study from BMJ.com shows that Physical activity in form of walking or jogging, yoga, strength training and dancing demonstrated moderate effects on reducing symptoms of major depressive disorder compared to active controls (e.g., usual care or placebo). The effect size was comparable to or better than psychotherapy and antidepressants in some cases.

But more on this in the Psychology section.

This is just a portion of positive factors that you get from fitness. And there are many more!

Fitness Inspiration

Still not convinced? Let me tell you a personal story:

I had a neighbor who was over 50 years old and on early pension. He was overweight, smoking, drinking every now and then. The only thing he was doing for his health was moderate Cycling once every few days.

At some point, I didn’t see him for almost two weeks and when I met him, he looked horrible. I asked what happened and he said the most terrifying words anyone can hear: “I almost died…”.

I was stunned at first but asked for details. “A heart attack. A bad one. I almost saw the Lord (he is religious)… After the operation, I had a meeting with the doctor. He said I was lucky… He listed all my habits that led to this and he said that the only thing that saved me was… Cycling… And the probability of my hearts rehabilitation is very high because of that and I might recover to 100 percent…”

After our small talk he was still very pessimistic and, in case he died, he wanted ME out of all people to have all his stuff, to which I chuckled and replied “Buddy, I think the Lord doesn’t want you up there yet. The heart attack was just a mere kick in your rear so that you stop leading a bad lifestyle!” and went my way.

Incredible, but true. Cycling for an hour every 2 – 3 days saved an older man from literal DEATH! One of the most inspiring stories I tell everyone arguing whether they should train or not. After that example, I usually tell them about people I have seen throughout 18 years of gym and training. Even now, I see a dude in a wheelchair, a dude without an entire arm and injured people all the time who still train in the gym. Pure Inspiration!

Conclusion

To reach the end in this article, one of the fundamental things for every person who wants to sharpen themselves in any shape or form, especially mentally, physical activity is a MUST. I will talk about the connection between physical activity and psychology in the Psychology corner and take a deep look as to why this is so important. As well as tips and tricks and maybe a funny story here and there to make you laugh or learn.

Oh, and don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter. See you in the next article.

PEACE!