Bottom line – how fit are you? | Physical BALC #69
If we asked 10 experts for their definition of fitness, we would get 10 different answers. Presumably, that’s because the definition depends on the type of performance one expects. Some athletes need to develop a particular type of fitness – marathon runners, powerlifters, etc. – but most of us are at our best when we achieve a healthy balanced fitness.
On this the experts agree: we need core stability; we need lower-body strength and power to run, jump, and lift heavy objects off the ground; we need torso strength to lift our own body weight in repeated challenges; and we need enough endurance to run a mile without stopping.
Core stability is the starting point for most fitness programs, as fitness begins in the middle of your body. The muscles in your torso defend your spine against unwanted movements – the twists and jolts that produce injuries – and they also enable the movements we do want. The core is the linchpin that allows coordinated actions of your upper and lower body muscles.
More to come on upper and lower body strength and endurance in future postings.
