Three Keys To Fitness

I am sure everyone reading this article knows on some level that physical activity is important. Knowing that you should be physically active and actually being physically active are two very different things. Why is it that we know we would feel and look better if we were more active, yet we manage to find one excuse after another to not exercise?

In our modern society, we have so many conveniences that have taken away the need for us to move. We have buttons to push to do tasks we used to have to get up and do, we have drive through windows for a variety of businesses, we have elevators and escalators to take us where we want to go. We have lost touch with the need of our body to move.

In order to achieve physical fitness it is important to focus on cardiovascular exercise such as walking, running, cycling, dancing, roller bladding, aerobic exercise, strength training such as using your body weight for resistance, weight lifting, strength training classes and flexibility training such as stretching and yoga poses. These are the three keys to fitness. A balanced routine that incorporates some cardiovascular exercise with strength and flexibility training will create a physically fit body.

If you currently do not do any physical activity, this may seem overwhelming to you. How can you possibly fit in three types of exercise into your already busy lifestyle? Do not worry; it is easy to do with the correct tools and mindset.

First, if you are not doing any physical activity, just start moving. Park in the farthest spot and walk into the building instead of going through the drive through or take the steps instead of the elevator. Every physical movement you make will benefit your body. Once you get into the habit of moving than you can evaluate your options for creating a fitness routine.

I recommend you first pick your favorite physical activity to get you started. Do what you love and it will be easy. Do you enjoy dancing, bicycling with your kids, going for a walk with your spouse? Start with what you enjoy and find time to do 5 to 10 minutes a few times a week. Once you realize that is pretty easy to do than you can add to your routine. This will start to create a habit of physical activity.

What I find with many of our clients is that they prefer one of the three areas of fitness. Either they love cardiovascular exercise, strength training or flexibility training, but rarely do I find someone who loves all three. If you have never done much physical activity, I recommend you consider hiring a personal trainer or attending a yoga or strength training class to learn how to properly do these activities. It is important that you learn the correct techniques to ensure you do not injure yourself. I also encourage you to always check with your physician before starting a new physical fitness routine to ensure that it is safe for you to do vigorous physical activity.

I think this is a timeless quote by Edward Stanley "Those who think they have not time for bodily exercise will sooner or later have to find time for illness." We only have this one body to get us through our lifetime. Take care of your body by nourishing it with high quality nutritious food, regular exercise and rest, relaxation, and your body will reward you with vibrant health.