So, what is being fit?

At whatever age you are, or whatever your physical abilities fitness can be described as a condition that helps us look, feel and do our best. Being able to rely on your body when you need it to, whether that is doing household chores, enjoying a brisk walk on a beautiful day, running to catch the bus, working out at the gym or even doing your first marathon!

Only you can set your own fitness goals. Your present level of fitness, age, health, skills, interest and convenience are among the factors you should consider.

The Presidents Council on Physical Fitness and Sports outline five basic components for physical fitness:

Heart and Lung endurance - the ability to deliver oxygen and nutrients to                                                      tissues and to remove wastes
                                              for sustained periods of time.

Muscular strength                - the ability of a muscle to exert force ​for a brief period of time.  

Muscular endurance            - the ability of a muscle or group of muscles to                                                    continue applying force.
                                                                 (see The Fountain of Youth)

Flexibility                               - the ability to move joints and use                                                                       muscles through their full range of                                                                      movements.

Body Composition                  - this refers to the makeup of a body in terms                                                      of lean mass (muscle, bone, vital tissue and
                                                  organs) and fat mass. (see BMI vs LBM)

Deciding to improve fitness

Most people are aware of their current levels of fitness, particularly when comparing the above five components. It is always important to exercise safely and effectively. If you are about to begin a new exercise regime, you should seriously consider consulting a medical practitioner first.

Begin any programme slowly at first. It may have taken many years to make us who are we and pushing too hard too soon may result in frustration and "giving up". Be considerate of yourself and don't be afraid of an occasional "treat". A world full of stopping can feel grey and depressing. Rather than giving yourself messages of "do more of" or "do less of" try doing things differently. (see aspirations to actions).

                                                                   Reasons to Exercise.

1.   Increases blood flow
2.   Gives you more energy
3   .Makes you feel better
4.   Enhances self esteem
5.   Makes you look better
6.   Relieves stress
7.   Strengthens your heart
8.   Maintains and or
      improves flexibility
9.   Increases bone strength
10. Helps the body resist
      upper respiratory tract infections
11. Helps maintain weight loss
12. Lowers your resting
      heart rate
13. Decreases risk of disease
14. Improves mental alertness
15. Increases muscle strength
16. Helps to sleep better

On this web site you will find different sections about ageing healthily, getting fitter, eating sensibly - choose what will work for you and your life style and enjoy the journey.

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