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Tune Up your Body for the Best Performance

by Frann Leach

The word fitness means 'suitable for the purpose'. Is your body suitable for the purpose of life? Do you keep it well oiled and turn the engine over regularly to make sure it stays in good working condition?

Getting fit needn't be a chore, it really can be fun. Why not make the effort to get out there, find something you enjoy, and go for it? You'll be glad you did!

Working out can be your salvation

If you're one of the overweight majority, you may have tried plenty of different diets, but if you haven't gained a fitness habit, you won't lose the weight, or not for long, anyway. You've got to get into exercise, one way or another.

There's an old wives' tale out there that says exercise won't help, because it only makes you hungry, so you eat as much as you use in energy. But in fact, exercise turns up the speed on your metabolism - which means you start to burn more food more quickly. In other words, even though you may be more hungry, and eat a bit more, you should still lose weight overall (so long as you aren't silly about it).

"Working out" - words to strike fear into the heart of any dedicated fatty! Those of us who have cultivated a taste for good food tend not to be into any sort of sporting activity. But it's not all aerobics and callisthenics nowadays - there are lots of ways to get fit. At least one of them must appeal, if you take the time to investigate.

Even working out in the gym has changed completely over the past 20 years or so. A fully-equipped fitness centre, with its treadmills, cross-trainers and weight training machines, is nothing like the places we were forced to use at school. Many have other facilities included in the membership fee, such as a swimming pool, spa or solarium. Most have classes in everything from yoga to body combat and are well-staffed with friendly, but expert instructors who can help you find the right routine for you.

The key to getting fit - have fun

If the gym doesn't suit you, there are other ways you can get fit. Walking is a good start: take a 20-30 minute walk every day, and you will be surprised how much fitter you get after a few weeks. Swimming is another exercise which many people enjoy. If you can ride a bicycle, you could consider getting and using one. Using a bike for shorter journeys will save petrol money, as well and making you fitter.

If you've always been anti-sport, but you're serious about losing weight and getting fit, it's worth your while taking a good look at what's out there. Remember, not all sport has to involve going to a gym or joining a team. If you prefer your own company, consider taking up an individual activity such as kayaking.

Make the effort. Find something you can enjoy so that you are less likely to get bored, and then go for it. You'll be amazed at how much difference it will make to your life - not just in physical health terms, but also in your mental health.