In the ideal world, we would eat everything organic, like it was less than 100 years ago. However, in this les than ideal world,

METABOLIC FITNESS

We need a new approach to health and fitness-one that places less emphasis on body weight (or body fat) and more emphasis on healthy metabolism-becoming “metabolically” fit. To achieve “metabolic fitness” does not require having a lean body, nor does it depend upon having the cardiovascular system of an endurance athlete.

ROAD TO FITNESS

It may seem intuitive that exercising more and eating better will naturally result in weight loss. This generally is true, but with a major caveat. Not everyone will lose weight and it is virtually impossible to tell how much any one person will lose. Most exercise programmes and typical diets result in a weight loss of not more than 3 to 5kg (32); the average “overweight” adult wants to lose 10 to 15 kg! This discrepancy between what people want and what exercise and healthy eating are able to deliver highlights the fundamental problem with using weight loss or reductions in body fat to judge the success of an exercise programme or nutrition plan.

HABIT OF FITNESS

The idea of making fitness a habit is important. People often associate “enthusiasm” with working out and getting fit. There’s nothing wrong with bringing enthusiasm to a worthwhile endeavour. However, it’s not enough, it usually wanes and it’s really not the key ingredient.

PATH TO FITNESS

Knowledge is power and knowing what works is very important. Understanding the factors that contribute to habit formation will provide you with the basics to change your behaviour. However, you must know how to apply this information correctly. Beginners are easily confused while attempting the difficult task of changing their lives. Therefore, below is a priority checklist to help keep you on track: