What Does "Being Fit" Mean?

We all question what this phrase means when we either look in the mirror; judge ourselves against someone else's other physical condition, or simply appreciate the aesthetic look that we see or recognize in another man or woman.

According to the The United States Department of Health and Human Services, physical fitness is defined as "a set of attributes that people have or achieve that relates to the ability to perform physical activity". Fitness is more than just asking simple questions about what activities you do and how long you do them. 

There are 5 Main Components of Fitness:

1. Cardiorespiratory Endurance - This refers to how our body is able to supply fuel during our physical activity. We can improve our C.E. through activities that aid in causing an elevated and safe heart rate for a sustainable period. 

2. Muscular Strength - The ability of the muscle to exert strength during the activity. You can strengthen your muscles by making them work against resistance, hence the term "resistance training". A muscle has to be overloaded to be strengthened. This can be achieved by lifting weights.

3. Muscular Endurance - The ability of a muscle to continue exerting force without tiring out. Endurance can be improved by cardio-respiratory activities such as jogging, dancing, and cycling. Nutritional supplementation can support the body's ability to last longer during the activity.  Each supplemental need varies per individual, but can be safely accomplished/added for all age groups.

4. Body Composition - The body's muscle-bone-fat ratio. Just because your weight is not changing does not mean your level of fat is the same. Very important for those who constantly look at the scale for the end-all be-all answer for their 'weight loss' result. Don't discount your efforts too quickly. 

5. Flexibility - The range of movement across the joint. This is important to link movements smoothly and prevent injury. To improve your flexibility, try stretching or engaging in activities that lengthen the muscles such as swimming or yoga.

Whatever your reason for fitness and exercise, stay focused on your goals and your plan to achieve them.  If you need support and accountability, come get it.  

Stay focused on you! 

You can do it!

Zeke Samples, IFA, CSN, CPR, IDEA

WBFF Muscle Model and Personal Trainer

Surreal Body Solutions, LLC
Surreal Body and Nutrition, LLC

803.322.7649

www.SurrealBodySolutions.com 

Contributing Health and Exercise Author

Personal Training | Nutrition | Supplements | Motivation