The Fit Fundamentals

The groundwork for anything starts with fundamentals, and as with most things you have to master the fundamentals before you can become really great. Fitness and health are no different. Fitness is not an overnight achievement and it’s also not a destination. It’s a continually changing dynamic that takes hard work, persistence and patience.

With my knowledge of health science and my passion for fitness I have compiled the list of what I believe are the absolute essentials one needs to start (and maintain!) a fitness regime and build a healthier lifestyle. I also want to note that each one of these can be elaborated on immensely, and I intend to do that with future posts!

This is a lifestyle. I’m sure you have heard it before and you’ll probably hear it again. It takes effort and work everyday to maintain fitness. It’s not the easiest, but it is worth it, and after all, this is the only body you have and staying fit and healthy is the best way to get the most out of it (and out of life!).

Eat real food. Food is your body's fuel. You wouldn’t put contaminated gas in your car, so don’t do it to your body! If it comes in an insanely sealed package with 1,000 ingredients on the label, it’s most likely full of preservatives, sugar and really bad for you. Real food has minimal ingredients, and most of the time doesn’t come in an air tight package. You’ll also be surprised at how little calorie counting you have to do when you’re eating correctly!

DRINK MORE WATER. This is serious, you should be drinking water all day. Your body is 60% water and it’s essential for major reactions going on within the body including metabolism.

Stop being lazy. Get moving and be active in general. Bike to work instead of driving, take the stairs, or get up and stretch/walk around during work. Every step helps you achieve your goals. A great way to keep on track is getting a fitness tracker like a Fitbit or an activity journal.

Exercise. Around 4-6 days a week, even if you only have 15 minutes, no excuses. Get your heart rate up and build muscle. Not only does it help burn fat, it also helps with anxiety and depression.

Switch It Up! Lifting, cardio, HIIT, yoga. Do it all and more. Switching up your exercise routines keeps your body guessing so it doesn’t become complacent. It also keeps you from getting bored, it’s always exciting to try a new workout!

Make sleep a priority. Sleep repairs and refreshes your body for the next day. Benefits also include a clear, alert mind!

Moderation and Balance. You will cheat day sometimes, you will miss workouts and it’s okay to do this. Indulging once in awhile is what keeps us sane (and a large part of what makes us human). It also keeps us from putting food/drink on a pedestal and you have lower tendencies to binge. Plus giving into a craving or indulgence (IN MODERATION) is proven keep you on track with your health and fitness goals!

This is about you.

I’ve added some links on the importance of the fundamentals if you’d like a more indepth look into why these things work and why I swear by them! Enjoy!

Sleep

Poison Sugar

Addictive Sugar

Exercise

Sitting all day. The Silent Killer

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