Life's a Beach... Bikini Body Pg. 1

Apparently, fitness is frequently misunderstood in spite of its popularity. Slews of magazines write about it; scads of businesses revolve around it; reams of books are written about it; television shows and movies talk about it, yet many people still don’t fully understand what fitness really is.

Okay, let’s step back for a moment. Obviously, fitness relates to people getting fit. It may surprise you; however, that true fitness is not determined by displays of human strength or endurance.

In other words, it is not about how many miles you can run, how much weight you can lift, or even how much muscularity you possess that classifies you as "fit." Sure, physically fit people often perform impressive feats – consider, for example, the feats of Olympic athletes. But a person’s athletic ability is not necessarily a gauge of his or her level of fitness. You don’t have to climb Mount Everest, swim the English Channel, or look like Mr. or Miss Olympia to be considered "fit." Just because someone can accomplish such outstanding achievements does not necessarily mean they are more fit than others who follow a more moderate fitness path.

The point I am trying to make here is not to let the word "fitness" scare you or intimidate you. You do not have to participate in activities that place extreme demands on your body. So there is no need to give up on fitness program without ever giving it a try.

Now, back to the original question: What exactly is fitness anyway? Fitness is a means for anyone, any age, to enhance the quality of their lives in any way they wish. The School of Fitness and Nutrition in Scranton, Pennsylvania gives an excellent description: "Physical fitness is the ability to carry out daily tasks with vigor – with ample energy left to plan lifetime goals and enjoy leisure pursuits."

The Public Health Agency of Canada gives a more detailed description: "Physical fitness is a set of attributes that are either health related or performance (or skill) related. Health related fitness comprises those components of fitness that exhibit a relationship with health status. Performance/skill related fitness involves those components of fitness that enable optimal work or sport performance."

Now that I have answered your question, you will be able to answer mine: Are you interested in fitness? Well, if you are interested in enhancing the quality of your life, then I assume your answer is "Yes!"

So, I have devoted my column to what else…fitness! I will be addressing many issues that fall under the "fitness umbrella." I will keep you informed and up-to-date on fitness related topics from head to toe -- and I will keep you motivated. I will help you to be the best that you can be.Here are a few basics that can help get you on the road to fitness and keep you there:

1.       Eat balanced meals, try to avoid or limit junk food
2.       Drink plenty of water
3.       Engage in moderate exercise regularly
4.       Get plenty of rest
5.       Avoid smoking
6.       Maintain a healthy body weight
7.       Use alcohol in moderation

And most importantly, don’t forget to smile.
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DeBarra Mayo has written several fitness books and hundreds of articles about fitness. She has some great ideas that will help you feel and look more sexy in
a bikini.

Disclaimer: The information on this site is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, or for medical diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician, or a qualified health care provider before starting a new diet, treatments or exercise programs - or consult with your physician about questions regarding a medical condition. If you are pregnant, always seek the advice of your physician before starting a new diet, treatments or exercise program.