Diet Fitness

Most individuals on a diet fitness plan try to achieve optimal health and at the same time work on body image. The body has a predefined order of gaining and losing fat. (This is genetic, which is why we all have different trouble spots), and we can not modify this through exercise or diet alone. What we can do, however, is to force the body to burn stored fat through following a proper diet and exercise, and using the proper bodybuilding supplements and as the body progresses through its own predefined order, (arms, waist, legs, chest, etc), fat in these “stubborn spots” disappears. However, remember that because everyone’s genetics are different, one plan may not be as good for you as another.

What is Fitness

Fitness can be performance- related, or health-related. Performance- related is a measure of an athlete’s agility, balance, power and speed. Health-related can be achieved through regular physical activity. The benefits of both types of fitness are a healthy heart and lungs (cardio respiratory fitness), increased flexibility, and muscular strength and endurance.

Health-related fitness helps you feel your best and, at the same time, reduce the risk of heart attack, colon cancer, diabetes, high blood pressure, and other serious illnesses. Being fit also energizes your body throughout the day, helping you to achieve your daily activities and supply you with left over energy to enjoy your leisure time.

Experts recommend either an activity at moderate intensity (equal to a brisk walk) for 30 minutes a day, minimum of 5 days a week or vigorous exercise for 20 minutes a day, 3 times a week or more. (Vigorous exercise is done at a pace that increases your heart rate to 70% or more of your maximum heart rate. Your maximum heart rate is the fastest your heart can beat at a maximum activity level.)

What is Diet

By definition, diet refers to what an individual eats and drinks throughout the day.

In brief, an ideal diet is one that takes into account your likes and dislikes and includes a variety of foods with enough calories and nutrients for good health. 

Tools for a Good Diet

It would be beneficial if you use the Food Guide Pyramid and the Nutrition Facts Label that is found on most processed food products to assist you in choosing a healthy diet. The Food Pyramid outlines the kinds and amounts of food that you need each day for optimal health. The Nutrition Facts Label will help you select foods that meet your daily nutritional needs.

Remember, diet and fitness  work hand-in-hand in achieving optimal health and may help you in obtaining the body you have been striving for all your life. However, it is important that you start a diet/fitness program slowly and talk to your doctor before embarking on such a program.