What Does it Feel Like to Be Fit? 

Firstly, a definition of fitness in this context: I’m referring to fitness in a physical sense, so literally your strength and cardiovascular performance. However, to achieve a good level of physical fitness, you must also pay attention to your sleep, mental health, energy, body composition and digestion.  

More Energy 

Being physically fit means more energy to get things done, in both your personal and professional life. Rather than drain your energy, a workout can set you up for a more energetic and productive day, as well as giving you all the benefits of increased blood flow, potential EPOC (excess post-exercise oxygen consumption – i.e., increased calorie burn post-workout), increased heart rate and the flow of ‘feel good’ neurotransmitters such as endorphins, serotonin and dopamine. 

More Resilience 

Our lifestyles demand that we’re fit for the rigours of modern life. The demands made on us in terms of our availability, combined with the pressures to be ‘always on’ mean that it can be easy to become stressed and burned out. Whilst being fit doesn’t mean this won’t happen (or that the demands on your lifestyle should be met), it does mean that you are much better equipped for the tough times and have the resilience to ride the storms. 

More Stamina 

Being fit provides you with the stamina needed for much of life, whether that’s a long day at work, travelling or a day out with friends or family. Being fit means you don’t need to worry about the physical demands of an exercise or activity because you can be confident you have the fitness to endure it. Knowing that I can go into almost any situation, knowing that I have the physical stamina to withstand it is very empowering. This creeps into mental stamina too. 

Your World Opens 

You can say yes to things rather than no because you don’t think you’d be fit enough. This might range from an invitation to run Parkrun on a Saturday morning to a game of rounders on the beach. You don’t want to be the one who sits it out because of a perceived or real lack of fitness. Once you become fit, your world opens up and you are more willing to try new things.  

Operate In Your Discomfort Zone 

The ability to become comfortable in your discomfort zone is huge. We believe it’s important to regularly challenge yourself in some way to get comfortable with this. Sport and exercise is a great way to do this, hence we regularly take part in challenging endurance events to keep ourselves sharp. For you this might also be trying a new hobby or public speaking. 

A Longer Healthspan 

Being fit means you’re giving yourself a good chance of having a long healthspan. Maintaining your fitness will promote a healthy cardiovascular system; strong bones, tendons and ligaments; a healthy brain with lots of blood flow; balanced blood sugars and hormonal profile; a healthy digestive system and good mental health.