The Fitness Mantra

What is the fitness mantra to remain fit and healthy? There are any number of theories and ideas to maintain fitness and good health. The usual recommendations are to go for a brisk walk or jogging, aerobics, swimming so on and so forth.

But, is there a much simpler method to remain fit and healthy? Just think about the pre-historic man. Did he jog, swim or indulge in aerobics and dancing? Well, his daily job was to search for his food. Obviously, he had to walk long distances, hunt for the animal, and make his own dwelling with wood and twigs. In fact, he had to do everything by himself. He had no access to modern conveniences that we enjoy.

The modern conveniences have changed our life styles. Now, we no longer have to search for our food. You pay the money and you get the ready made food. The modern day gadgets like the cooking range, automobiles, television, and refrigerator have all altered our way of life.

This has given rise to life style diseases like obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes etc. Now, we are asked to go for a daily brisk walk for a few miles, or jog to overcome these life style diseases.

But, if you look around, there are much simpler ways to remain fit which have escaped your attention. Make it a daily challenge to find ways to move your body. Instead of taking the elevators or escalators climb the stairs. Take your dog for a walk; play football with your kids; play frisbee with friends, if you are interested in gardening, you can as well trim the lawn.

Be aware that anything that active movement of limbs acts not only a fitness tool but it is also a great stress reliever. Take time to ‘move’ at your own pace. Well, you don’t have to spend an hour in the gymnasium or a 30-minute aerobic dance class or tai chi or kickboxing. If you can do it, that's great. Remember, the more you move, the better it is for your health. In sum, always be on your toes and keep moving and that should be your fitness mantra.