Why is it important to be in good shape?

Published on January 27, 2022 By Gentle Touch | Last updated on February 02, 2022

Both women and men seek to have a good body for aesthetics and health, since having a good body or keeping the body in shape provides many benefits. 

You may also be interested in reading our article Tips to get in shape! 

Advantages of having a nice body 

Having a good body is essential because it allows development and success. In addition, appearance is a means of communication. It transmits that body language to others. 

Self-esteem also plays a significant role in life, and if it is high, we can have a better quality of life in different aspects. 

The benefits are about how we are and provide health benefits such as improving circulation, improving our performance, and physical condition. In addition, and as a complement to all of the above, clothes can always look and highlight the figure of our body. 

That is why it is vital to have a good body, since it provides multiple benefits in our lives and, above all, for our benefit. Finally, to achieve a good body, it is based on a balanced diet containing many fruits and vegetables, drinking plenty of water and exercise, and occasionally playing sports. 

What does it mean to be fit? 

According to health authorities in many countries, exercise is miraculous to highlight the benefits of being physically active. 

It can reduce the risk of heart problems, type 2 diabetes, and cancer by 50%, in addition to lowering the chance of premature death by 30%. 

The mistake is to define the state of a person's form based on minimum marks or a specific physical aspect. What we call a state of the qualitative form should first prevail before speaking of the quantitative one. The qualitative point of view considers that a person is in good shape when he undergoes a medical check-up and everything goes well. He eats an adequate diet. He is psychologically stable. He practices regular sports at a recreational level and enjoys it.  

Under this definition, the most important thing is the person's general well-being, such as having an excellent physiological function, cardiovascular system, respiratory system, digestive system, musculoskeletal system, joints, bones, and muscles metabolism. The US Department of Health and Human Services defines fitness as engaging in vigorous and mindful daily physical activity without excessive fatigue. We must add that he has an excellent psychological and emotional state. He enjoys a physical condition that allows him to enjoy recreational activities, such as a soccer game or a bicycle ride, without much effort.  

On the other hand, the quantitative refers to something more tangible, to a physical condition that is assessed based on standard measurements that determine the degree of fitness in which a person is. 

What can I do to get in shape? 

Any regular physical activity can improve your fitness and health, including walking, climbing stairs, or mowing the lawn. The most relevant point is that you keep moving.  

Exercise must be part of your daily life. You can do this during gym class, on a sports team, or your own. Here we share some recommendations for you to consider: 

Keep a positive attitude and have fun.  

A good mental attitude is essential. Find an activity that you find fun. It is more probable to be constant if you do something you enjoy. Some people prefer to do physical activities with friends or family. This option is also an excellent idea.   

Take one step at a time.  

Any slight change can add up to better fitness. For example, walk or bike to school or friends' houses instead of driving. Get on or off the bus several blocks early and walk the rest of the way. Take the stairs instead of taking the elevator. 

Get your heart active.  

Whatever exercise you choose, try to include aerobic activity that gets your breathing faster and your heart rate higher. These exercises are great because they help you to improve your physical resistance. It also burns body fat. Some examples of aerobic activities are basketball, running, or swimming. 

Don't forget to do some simple warm-up exercises or light stretches before any physical activity. When your body is warm, the risk of injuries decreases. If you do a good stretch, you can also get flexible muscles. It is also important to stretch after exercising so that the muscles relax. 

Ideally, do some form of exercise every day. Doing an aerobic activity for 20 to 30 minutes is recommended. Do that activity as often as you can, but don't exercise it to the point of pain. 

Take good care of your body.  

• Eat healthy foods.  

Learn which foods are good for you and how much is correct. Take your time eating. Savor the food carefully. Enjoy it. Eating well helps to have an optimal appearance. It gives you the energy you need. And reinforce your body image. You will feel good about yourself when you treat your own body well.  

• Sleep well and enough.  

Learn how many hours of sleep you need for your age. Go to bed early. Turn off all screens before bedtime so you can get a good night's sleep.  

• Stay active every day.  

Do not forget that you can get a more robust and healthier body when you move. You can be active doing sports. You can run, walk, do yoga, swim, or dance. Choose those activities that you like. Get and keep healthy body weight.  

• You must keep a healthy weight. 

This recommendation will let you feel better about your body. But don't go on a diet by yourself. Always talk to your father or mother or your doctor. Your doctor can tell you ways to reach and maintain a weight that's right for you. 

You may also be interested in reading our article The enemies of a great shape 

What if I need help to have a good body image and self-esteem? 

Sometimes issues related to body image and self-esteem are too much to handle on their own. Some mental problems like depression or traumas are more common than we think. Eating disorders can cause a negative body image that is far from reality. 

Explain to a parent, a doctor, or a therapist what is happening to you. Ask for help. Body image and self-esteem can be improved with the necessary support and attention. 

If you have questions about our services, do not hesitate to contact the Gentle Touch Team to get a FREE CONSULTATION. Please call (860) 216-6225 to schedule your appointment or email info@GentleTouchCT.com.