How does one define fitness? Is it the absence of illness? A positive mental attitude, maybe? Is a fit person one who exercises regularly and eats and sleeps well? How do you “know” that you’re fit? Let’s see. Honestly, fitness is subjective and extremely difficult to define.I tend to think of fitness on three levels: physical, mental, and emotional / spiritual. Each level affects and is affected by the other. For instance, a negative mental attitude can hinder the performance of a physically fit and capable athlete. So couldn’t one say that he is physically weaker? My understanding then is that these are significant indicators of “fitness”: Looking fit
If you’re neither underweight nor overweight, then you’re reasonably “physically” fit. However, this doesn’t merely involve the Body Mass Index (BMI) metric. One can weigh just right but have significant body fat, and end up having all sorts of problems ranging from not getting dates to diabetes. Determining optimum body fat levels is a topic in itself. However, as long as your dress doesn’t have to stretch tight to cover your person you’re fine. Being positive
Raring-to-go or rarely-will-go? Does daily life seem a positive challenge or an unwholesome burden? If it’s the latter, you may be in trouble. A negative mental attitude is like a self-perpetuating myth – created by you and dominating you. Be in control; you’ll feel better and fitter. If you’re already in control, infect others with your confidence. Being open to life and new experiences
I’ve always felt that, more than anything else fitness is characterized by openness to life and its many experiences. Go back to your childhood! For a child every moment and experience is new, and imbued with mystery; every person equally lovable. And the blissfulness is visible. On the other hand adults tend to get slotted sometimes into predictable or self-isolating behavioral patterns. Watch out! Embrace life, people, and experiences. Learn to give without expecting something in return. Is all this going to help you become fit? Maybe. Or maybe not. But you’ll definitely be happier. What do you think? Have a different idea of fitness? Let us know what you think.
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