By Aaron Boike, B.S. Kinesiology, ACE Certified Trainer and Health Coach
According to the Oxford English Dictionary, Fitness is “The condition of being physically fit and healthy.” While this is a nice concise definition, it is open to a lot of interpretation. Fitness to me and fitness to my average client are very different things, and that is a fact that needs to be respected and acknowledged when putting together a fitness program. In working with my Personal Training and Coaching clients, I strive to get everyone to really think about their own personal definition of “Fit.” How it looks, how it feels, and most importantly, what it allows them to accomplish and do in their life. Cause..let’s be honest, not everyone strives to look like the guy in the picture up above!
Why is it Important to Me to Define my “Fit?”
Let’s face it, the stats are startling, each year an estimated 45 million Americans will go on a diet and exercise program, and less than 1% will see long term success. Why? Motivation is likely a big part of it. For most of us, the idea of losing weight, toning up, and pleasing our doctors all sounds fine and dandy, but is it really going to get us to the gym at 6am before work? Maybe for a few weeks, but long term success takes real motivation. I find that defining your version of “Fit,” and then setting SMART goals around it is a formula for long term success.
How to Define Your “Fit”
What Comes to Mind First?
I find it helpful with clients to take a few minutes to jot down the things that they think of when they think of being “Fit.” Most commonly, people write things like; “Thin,” “Heart Healthy,” “Off Meds,” “Strong and Toned.” These face value items are great items to add to your list.
How Does “Fit” Feel?
For many of my clients, how fit feels is the most important element. Fit can feel like; “High Energy,” “Strong,” “Confident,” “Happy,” “Content.” What does “Fit” feel like to you?
What Does “Fit” Allow Your To Accomplish and Experience in Life?
This is often times my favorite discussion point with new clients, because it varies so much with each individual, and the items in this part of the list are often times the most meaningful. To answer this question, ask yourself “What would I love to be able to do or accomplish in my life.”
Here are a couple of examples from anonymous clients of mine:
Client #1 – Middle aged female client:
- Be able to experience life with my grandkids.
- Be able to walk for multiple miles at a time without pain, so I can experience the Paris on my upcoming vacation and future vacations.
- Feel more energy and a greater sense of health and wellbeing
Client #2 – Younger working professional – former professional endurance athlete:
- To be able to continue to excel in my athletic endeavors recreationally with a strong, injury-proofed body.
- To feel stronger and more energetic in my daily life to be able to be keep up with my young son.
- To have a more muscular physique and add upper body strength
So, what does “Fit” look like to you? Think about it and act on it!