People are often confused about the difference between health and fitness. They tend to think that they are the same thing but that is not true. You can be fit but not healthy, or you can be healthy and not necessarily fit.
The definition of health by the World Health Organization is a state of complete physical, mental and social well-being and not merely the absence of disease or infirmity. This means that health is about more than just your physical body; it also encompasses a positive outlook on life, good nutrition and the ability to stay active.
A healthy lifestyle is absolutely necessary in order to live a long and happy life. It helps you to prevent serious diseases like heart disease, diabetes and cancer and improves your quality of life. Moreover, it is important for your mental health as it can help you reduce stress, anxiety and depression. The best way to achieve a healthy lifestyle is to make small changes over time. You can start by eating healthier, taking regular exercise and decreasing your sedentary time.
If you aren’t currently living a healthy lifestyle, the steps to achieving optimal health and fitness may seem daunting. But the rewards are everlasting and will change your life for the better. You can stay motivated by setting smaller milestones, rewarding yourself for accomplishments and seeking support from friends, family or online communities. Regularly assess your progress by tracking your workouts and nutritional goals through a journal, a fitness app or wearable technology.
There are many health benefits of regular physical activity including strengthening your muscles and bones, improving respiratory and cardiovascular health and your overall mood. It can also help you maintain a healthy weight and reduce your risk of developing serious health problems such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis, high blood pressure, stroke and certain types of cancers.
Regular exercise can also help you sleep better and reduce your stress level. It can also increase your energy levels and boost your confidence and self-esteem. In addition, exercise can help you feel happier by releasing endorphins which are chemicals in your brain that make you feel good.
To improve your health and fitness, you should aim to do a combination of aerobic, strength training, flexibility and balance exercises. Aerobic exercises include walking, running, swimming, biking and dancing. Strength training includes lifting weights, using resistance bands, doing bodyweight exercises such as push-ups and squats or using exercise machines at the gym. Flexibility and balance exercises can include yoga, pilates and static stretching. You should also try to minimise sedentary behaviour, such as sitting for extended periods of time, by standing or moving around during work breaks. You should aim to get at least 30 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise each day.