Health, wellness and fitness are often used interchangeably, but they each have very different meanings. The term “health” is a much broader definition than the term “fitness.” Being healthy does not necessarily mean that you are fit; it could also be characterized by your mental and emotional state. The term “fitness,” on the other hand, refers to your physical capabilities and can be very specific. For instance, the fitness level required to be an elite marathon runner is quite different from the fitness level required of an NFL lineman.
A sedentary lifestyle and lack of exercise can be directly related to poor mental health and decreased energy levels. However, regular exercise can help to combat these issues and promote overall happiness. In addition, it can improve your physical appearance by reducing body fat, increasing muscle tone and helping to maintain a healthy weight.
Exercise can also help to boost your mood, reduce feelings of stress and anxiety, and encourage sleep, all of which can contribute to a happier life. It can also help to increase your confidence and self-esteem. Even those who suffer from depression can find that they feel better when they are physically active. The rush of endorphins and the extra energy that is provided by exercise can help to alleviate some of the symptoms of depression, and many people find that they are able to get more done on days when they work out.
In order to achieve the best results, it is important to choose a fitness program that works for your schedule and capabilities. Depending on your needs, you may prefer to do a workout that is short and intense or a longer, more moderate workout. If you are new to exercising, it is recommended that you start out by doing 15 or 30 minutes of moderate exercise on most days and gradually increase the amount of time each day.
Try to schedule your workouts when you have the most energy, such as first thing in the morning before work or school or at lunchtime before the mid-afternoon lull hits. You can also boost your energy level by making your workouts more fun. Taking up a new sport or exercising with friends can make the experience more enjoyable and provide you with the added benefit of social interaction, which can be beneficial to your mental health.
If you struggle with depression or other mental health issues, it is often helpful to exercise in a group. Exercise can be an effective treatment for depression, and the social aspect of group exercises can help to motivate you to continue your workouts. In addition, you can often exercise more vigorously in groups than you would be able to on your own. Isaac Newton was on to something with his famous quote, “Objects in motion stay in motion.” You can use this theory to your advantage by making sure that you are always moving, even if it’s just walking or taking the stairs instead of the elevator.