Physical fitness is simply defined as a person’s state of well-being and health that allows him to perform regular daily activities with ease and efficiency. You don’t really need more than one reason to stay physically fit. Truth be told, being physically fit isn’t necessarily about your body shape or size. It is how you are able to meet the physical demands of carrying out your daily life. Whether you’re a size 0 or a size 16, you can be considered physically fit.
Fitness, just like any other activity or hobby you have, requires your focus, discipline and sheer determination. What makes a person physically fit isn’t a matter of finding the right exercise equipment or bag but instead, how you engage with it.
According to verywellhealth.com:
There are a number of ways to improve your fitness and workout, but none of them are “magic pills” that will transform your body overnight. Only you will know how to make your physical progress go towards your fitness goals.
There are basic rules for how you should proceed, whether you are a beginner or advanced, and what intensity and volume of training will help your body achieve its goals.
9 Important Benefits of Staying Physically Fit
If you need some convincing facts to start exerting more effort to stay physically fit, here are 9 benefits of staying physically fit!
1. You can do more in less time when you’re physically fit.
Time is gold. Everyone knows that. When you’re physically fit, you have enough energy to do more things in less time. For instance, carrying multiple bags of groceries up to your apartment can be done in one go.
However, if you’re not physically fit, you might have to do in two or three rounds. Not only will you be wasting time, but you will also become even more tired than you would have if you only had to climb up the stairs once.
When you’re not physically fit, you make excuses not to do more things in less time. You have less energy. You can work on things longer. Likewise, you get less done. You actually are more successful.
According to everydayhealth.com:
If you’re physically fit, you get more done. You can work on more things simultaneously. The hours fly by, and you focus more on what you want to achieve.
Not as many excuses or judgment about the quality of the time you are putting in, more on the health of your body.
2. You can go pretty much anywhere you want to go.
When you’re physically fit, there’s no limit on where you can go. If you want to climb up the mountains, go scuba diving, go skateboarding or any other sport you can think of, you know your body can handle it and you can definitely try it out.
A good example is how signs are placed at the entrance area of “dangerous” rides in an amusement park such as a roller coaster. You will see how those with heart conditions are not allowed to get on the ride. However, even those who are 80 and above can ride a roller coaster for as long they’re physically fit. Imagine all the things you can do or can’t do.
Once you are well past the natural limits of your body, you can overcome anything you face, climb any mountain and conquer the clouds!
3. When it comes to your career, you won’t have too many job limitations.
There are no limits to the jobs you can get when you’re fit. You can pretty much be a construction worker or an office executive working the night shift and it doesn’t matter. Your career will continue to soar!
According to theglobeandmail.com:
As you get used to workouts and fitness, you can make your dreams a reality. You can definitely go back to your university career and discover new stuff, get a job that is harder to find, or try something new.
To sum it up, if you feel there is something you want to do with your life, you should always start with your physical fitness. You don’t need to look for financial/family support to do it.
4. You can have more fun with your loved ones.
Of course, you can enjoy more activities with your loved ones. Remember that roller coaster? You can ride that with your grandkid if you like!
5. You feel better when you’re healthy.
Overall, you feel better when you’re healthy. Pain and aches in your bones and joints are some of the things you no longer have to worry about.
According to exerciseright.com.au:
In order to decrease anxiety and improve quality of life, don’t be afraid to train every day. Studies have shown that having an ample amount of time to train and exercise will help prevent chronic pain, increase our happiness, enhance our mental clarity and increase our efficiency.
We just have to be careful when it comes to workouts. Exercising too much at once or training too fast can also increase your stress.
6. You can go out of your way to help others.
You don’t only help yourself when you’re physically fit; you can also go out of your way to help others. Do you feel like volunteering in a shelter today? Perhaps you’d like to do your share in an evacuation center after a disaster struck your city? You can do those with ease when you’re fit.
While your family may love you for your personality traits, being physically fit will help you fulfill your true potential with other people. Look for good people around you that you can help!
7. Your physical appearance becomes better when you’re fit.
Good health manifests on your physical appearance. You become physically beautiful or handsome! Of course, we’re not here to give you false hopes, but hey, you have less fine lines, you have better posture and your skin becomes glowing!
According to stopskinwrinkles.com
Exercises is the best natural treatment for wrinkles!
8. Even your clothes look better on you when you’re fit.
Yes, you can wear a simple shirt and jeans but you look absolutely better when you’re physically fit. And no, you don’t even have to have a perfect physique!
9. The risk of disease is significantly reduced.
You’ll never really know what lies ahead in your life. Unexpected illnesses strike even the healthiest individuals. However, the risk of developing diseases is significantly reduced when you’re physically fit. These diseases include heart conditions, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes and yes, even cancer.
Research has shown that exercise is far more effective at curbing the risk of dying than all possible health guidelines.
According to Dr. Hulda Clark, a public health epidemiologist (University of Cambridge):
The effect of physical activity on reducing mortality risk is clear. This is one of the clearest, best-studied pieces of evidence. And this benefit is most noticeable when people are active at a young age, over five years, instead of the recommended 20 or 30 years.
The Significance of Staying Physically Fit
Maintaining physical fitness is not just a matter of vanity; it is a holistic approach to enhancing one’s overall well-being.
In a world where sedentary lifestyles and desk-bound routines are becoming increasingly prevalent, understanding the importance of staying physically fit is paramount.
Here are more reasons why prioritizing physical fitness is a key element in achieving a healthier and more fulfilling life:
- Enhanced Physical Health: Staying physically fit is closely linked to improved physical health. Engaging in regular exercise helps to strengthen the cardiovascular system, boost respiratory function, and maintain a healthy weight. A well-functioning body is more resilient to illnesses, reducing the risk of chronic conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and obesity.
- Mental Well-being: The benefits of staying physically fit extend beyond the physical realm to positively impact mental health. Exercise stimulates the release of endorphins, the body’s natural mood enhancers, promoting a sense of well-being and reducing symptoms of stress, anxiety, and depression. Regular physical activity has also been linked to improved cognitive function and a reduced risk of neurodegenerative diseases.
- Increased Energy Levels: Contrary to the misconception that exercise depletes energy, staying physically fit has been shown to boost overall energy levels. Regular physical activity improves muscle strength and endurance, leading to increased stamina and vitality. Individuals who stay active often experience enhanced productivity and a greater capacity to tackle daily tasks with enthusiasm.
- Better Sleep Quality: Staying physically fit contributes to better sleep quality. Engaging in regular exercise helps regulate sleep patterns, promoting deeper and more restorative sleep. Quality sleep is essential for overall health, as it plays a crucial role in immune function, mood regulation, and cognitive performance.
- Improved Immune Function: A robust immune system is essential for warding off infections and diseases. Regular exercise has been shown to enhance immune function by promoting healthy circulation, facilitating the efficient transport of immune cells throughout the body, and reducing inflammation. This results in a stronger defense against illnesses and a quicker recovery when faced with health challenges.
The importance of staying physically fit cannot be overstated. The numerous benefits, ranging from enhanced physical health and mental well-being to increased energy levels and improved immune function, collectively contribute to a higher quality of life.
According to hearthousenj.com:
By prioritizing physical fitness, individuals pave the way for a healthier, more fulfilling, and resilient existence.
Does Being Fit Equate to Being Healthy?
The terms “fit” and “healthy” are often used interchangeably, creating a perception that they are synonymous. However, understanding the nuanced relationship between the two is essential to grasp the intricacies of overall well-being.
Let’s explore whether being fit is a definitive indicator of being healthy and to shed light on the distinctions that exist between physical fitness and holistic health:
- Physical Fitness vs. Holistic Health: Physical fitness primarily refers to the body’s ability to perform physical activities and endure challenges, often measured through parameters like cardiovascular endurance, strength, and flexibility. While being physically fit is undoubtedly a crucial component of overall health, it does not provide a comprehensive picture of one’s well-being. Holistic health encompasses physical, mental, and social dimensions, emphasizing the interconnectedness of these aspects in defining one’s overall health.
- Potential Pitfalls of Overemphasis on Physical Fitness: Solely focusing on physical fitness may lead to a skewed perspective on health. Individuals who appear physically fit may still face health issues, such as nutritional deficiencies, stress-related ailments, or mental health challenges. It is vital to recognize that a sculpted physique does not necessarily translate to optimal health in all aspects of life.
- Integrating Physical Fitness into a Healthy Lifestyle: While physical fitness is a key element of a healthy lifestyle, it should be integrated into a broader framework that includes proper nutrition, mental well-being, and social connections. Striking a balance between various facets of health ensures a more comprehensive and sustainable approach to overall well-being.
- Individual Variability: Health is a highly individualized concept, and what works for one person may not be suitable for another. Genetic factors, pre-existing health conditions, and personal preferences all contribute to the uniqueness of an individual’s health journey. Recognizing and respecting these differences is essential in promoting a more inclusive and personalized approach to health.
- The Importance of Regular Health Assessments: Regular health assessments, including screenings, check-ups, and consultations with healthcare professionals, are crucial for gaining insights into one’s overall health. These assessments go beyond physical fitness evaluations and provide a comprehensive understanding of an individual’s well-being, enabling early detection and management of potential health issues.
While being physically fit is a valuable aspect of health, it is not synonymous with overall well-being. Holistic health involves a balanced integration of physical fitness, mental well-being, and social connections. Understanding the distinctions between physical fitness and holistic health allows individuals to adopt a more comprehensive and personalized approach to cultivating a truly healthy lifestyle.
