You Might Be Fitter Than You Think

Blame the media, Photoshop, the feats of professional athletes, or your own unrealistic expectations, but the truth is you’re probably not that out of shape. In fact, you may just be fitter than you think – and I can prove it! You stand and sit. Active people feel the need to get up and move around throughout the day. Getting in and out of a car involves basic squat movements, and you should be able to do this without pain. You constantly carry stuff. Whether you’re picking up and carrying children or shouldering a massive bag to and from work, those pounds add up to a healthy dose of weightlifting! You recover quickly. Take a short jog, try a few squat exercises, or just walk at a steady pace for a while. Are you tired and worn out, or could you endure a bit more? A healthy recovery time is a good indicator of physical fitness. You do household chores. Carrying laundry down the stairs requires balance. Navigating several tasks in the kitchen while avoiding dropping, burning, or falling is proof of coordination and dexterity. You take the stairs. If you can walk or run up and down stairs without feeling lightheaded or out of breath, you’re probably in decent aerobic shape. You crave healthy habits. It’s a good sign if you seek out exercise simply because it makes you feel good. Ditto if you prefer to eat healthily as well just because you want to not because you feel guilty.