People who have got themselves fit will tell you that, ‘I just feel so much better…’ often with a slightly bemused look in their eyes. Can physical fitness make you feel like a more complete person? Are you really more likely to feel better about yourself, because you do four classes a week at your local gym? This light-hearted guide to getting fit answers these questions and more.
People who have got themselves fit will tell you that, ‘I just feel so much better…’ often with a slightly bemused look in their eyes. Can physical fitness make you feel like a more complete person? Are you really more likely to feel better about yourself, because you do four classes a week at your local gym? Neither of us are scientists with surveys and statistics at our fingertips but the answer from our own experience has to be an emphatic ‘YES’.
In the year 4BC Plato argued that his students should be sent ‘to the master of gymnastics in order that their bodies may better minister to the virtuous mind.’ Similarly, in the year 2BC, Galen asserted that ‘exercise is recommended which contributes to the health of the body and to the harmonious functioning of the parts and to the strength of the soul.’ In modern times, there have been over a hundred separate studies, which have statistically established the correlation between a happy and satisfactory state of mind and good physical health. Put simply, if you feel good physically then you’re more likely to feel both mentally and emotionally healthier.
Table of Contents
Introduction 4
Healthy Body, Healthy Mind 6
The Physical Benefits of Exercise 11
Fit For What? 17
Health Clubs 24
Classes 31
Team Sports 39
Things You Can Do On Your Own 50
Muscle Toning Exercises (illustrated) 63
Healthy Eating 77
Diets (boo, hiss) 85
The Perils Of Advertising 90
Conclusion 93
