I’m a personal trainer and often meet with my clients in a gym setting. That environment works for a lot of people, because the equipment is all in one place and the music is loud and energizing (although most everyone is tuned in to their headphones and/or phones!). There’s also the social aspect, which can inspire greater motivation and commitment while working out with others.
But not everyone is comfortable in a gym. One reason is because they compare themselves to others around them. Another is that they sense they are being judged by their appearance. In other words, they have bought into this wrong-headed thinking—“It’s only on the outside and how you look in workout gear that proves someone’s fitness.” For some, just saying the word “fit” conjures up impossible goals and unreachable standards, and often a gym setting just amplifies these jitters.
But instead of going down that particular rabbit hole of frustration and futility, let’s instead look at useful and positive ways to assess your fitness level. So here’s a question: What does it mean to be fit? And another: How can you define fitness for yourself?
It’s a personal journey for sure, but let’s first dispense with some common statements and misconceptions when it comes to measuring fitness. I’m sure you’ve heard a version of this list.
I am fit, because:
- “ I walk 10,000 steps a day.”
- “ I’m a vegetarian.”
- “I go to yoga two times a week.”
- “I’m thin.”
- “I can bench press 150 pounds.”
- “I look good in my workout clothes.”
But to these, I say “Nope.” None of these separate claims necessarily defines “fit.” Below in my next section we’ll consider some actual ways to measure your own health and fitness.
Denise’s
2 Cents:
Your answers to these questions could help fill out a profile of your overall health and fitness.
* Can you get up and down off the floor?
* Do you have frequent indigestion?
* Do you sleep well?
* Do you harbor lots of negative thoughts and fears?
* Do you have a bowel movement daily?
* Can you balance on one foot for more than 30 seconds?
* Do you have a dentist, eye doctor, physician, healer, a good confidante?
* Are you addicted to alcohol, drugs, caretaking, shopping, cigarettes, or fast food?
* Do you eat a good breakfast?
* When walking up a hill or stairs do you get unusually winded?
* Can you touch your toes?
For more science-based info, check out this link: Mayo Clinic Link for Fitness
I recommend taking some time and looking at the big picture for yourself. Start with one small step-and keep going.
Before long you may very well echo my 90-year-old client, who says, “When I’m done exercising, I feel better the rest of the day!” — Ricki N-NYC