An interest in fitness is something that one develops from school. At that age there are kids who are good in academics and kids who are good in sports; rarely are there kids who excel in both. So, right then, peer groups are formed. That common interest is carried over the years and those youngsters who hit the gym are ones who are extremely focused. They know what they want and are fitness-conscious, thanks to awareness created by the media.
A recent report highlights the fact that only 0.038 percentage of the population in urban areas go to gyms. Money could be a factor or working out might not be the top priority. In our society, academics stills get top priority. Further analysing the figure, I would say only five per cent of youngsters in cities go to gyms. Right now those who use it look at it as a sport. We need to look at fitness as a lifestyle.
Fitness in everyday life is very important as our body adapts to the work we do — be it ballet dancing or door-to-door marketing. It is all about strength, endurance and flexibility. That’s why a simple workout at home should include suryanamaskar , push-ups, on-the-spot jumping, weights, core workouts and stretches. Remember to breathe properly while you’re at it.
Another study says a lay person requires a 30-minute workout in a day, while a fitter person can work out for 30 minutes at a stretch.
Coming to one’s diet, it is definitely not advisable to go on a diet without consulting a nutritionist. What worked for your friend might not work for you. One size does not fit all. You have to understand that it involves a chemical reaction in the body and one also has to take into consideration the different blood groups. The nutritionist charts out a diet based on one’s expenditure of energy versus intake. In fact, it takes 7000 calories to lose a kilo. A nutritionist will give you a customised diet keeping all this in mind. So don’t take off on a diet on your own.
And, finally, a tip for those of us who are on a rush pretty much every morning. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day. That’s why they say: eat breakfast like a king! Never skip it. If you are in a hurry, try fixing a quick breakfast comprising cereals and fruit juices (orange juice is especially good in the morning). Eat enough to sustain yourself for the next two hours.
Ajit Shetty is the Director of Score Fitness Centre.
