Health v. Fitness

In a world dominated by social media influencers and Hollywood icons, it's easy to equate fitness with health. But are the images of chiseled bodies and extreme workouts really indicative of true well-being? Let's explore the nuances between fitness and health.

Are many of the fitness influencers we see today healthy? There is quite a discrepancy when it comes to the difference between health and fitness, many people see social media influencers and Hollywood actors as the peak level of health and fitness. However, that is not quite the case.

Health and fitness may appear very similar at first; however, in today’s perception, they are vastly different. Fitness, and the fitness community, are very supportive of aesthetics, and the use of anabolic steroids is more accepted now than ever before. There is also an abundant amount of kids and unknowledgeable people spreading their tips and advice online. This advice is hardly ever correct but is merely put out there to increase their following. Most people do not understand the negatives of this lifestyle, especially the long-term effects.

Defining Health and Fitness

Health is defined by the state of being free from illness and injury. When doing any activity or exercise, it is important to be conscious of our bodies to ensure we do not hurt ourselves in the long term.

Fitness is defined by the condition of being physically fit and healthy. What is important to note here is that someone can not be fit if they are not healthy by these definitions.

Health v. Fitness

When looking at many of our role models and celebrities, we see all sorts of things. To start, the argument can be made that any individual using performance-enhancing drugs is not healthy. Whether they are an actor, influencers, athletes, or a normal person; these types of drugs are known to have negative health consequences in the long term.

Our favorite influencers for weight loss who preach to only be concerned with low-calorie meals are neglecting to inform people of the nutrient they will be missing out on.

So, what does health look like today? Health, as opposed to fitness, is more about sustainably optimizing the human body. This does not mean giving up aesthetics or strength, but rather changing the way you get there. Being healthy means taking care of your body both physically and mentally. Maintaining a safe weight, completing all reps with proper form, mastering control over one’s body, not avoiding cardiovascular activity, eating a healthy diet, ensuring the proper vitamins, taking care of bone health, and many more things. Changing to train healthy is a massive shift, and will take some time, but is very rewarding and essential for long-term prosperity.

We need to always be thinking about ourselves in the long term, training our bodies and our mine to be optimized for all sorts of scenarios. After reading Viking Ninja Elements, by Erik Melland and Robinson Erhard, my entire lifestyle has changed. The book is phenomenal, discussing a philosophy behind exercising, as well as the benefits of training with a mace bell. After reading this, I made several shifts in how I approach exercising and health; from my diet, training regiment, and even my mental and spiritual routine. I have noticed that I am significantly more in tune with my body, dropping my ego and realizing when I am pushing myself too far. I strive to gain mastery of all of my movements, as well as incorporate strength, speed, and athleticism. My mobility has improved tremendously, I have gotten stronger, and my endurance has gone up. As well, I am significantly more well-rounded, training not only musculature but also my cardiovascular health and incorporating yoga and meditation. These shifts have allowed me to become a much more healthy human, one that has lower stress, and is injury-free, while striving in all areas of exercise.

Conclusion

Health and fitness are not the same things. Many of us confuse this and see ourselves going to the gym and doing what our favorite Hollywood celebrity or fitness influencer told us, but in reality, we are not focusing on gaining mastery over our bodies and keeping in mind the long-term goal of health. Whether it be in diet, exercise, or even in the mind.

We need to learn to take information online today at face value. Everybody is unique, and if your goal is to be a professional bodybuilder or powerlifter. then by all means do it. But do not spread misinformation that what you are doing is healthy for your body in the long term.

Inspired to redefine your approach to health and fitness in pursuit of long-term prosperity? Take action today by incorporating principles from the resources discussed into your daily routine. Embrace the journey of self-discovery and growth, and empower others to join you on the path to authentic well-being!