5 things you need to measure

In the present world, one's fitness level is defined by a lean body and six-pack abs. Those who fit into the criteria are considered healthy and robust, while others keep trying to achieve this superficial parameter. The truth about fitness level is that no one size fits all, and a slim body is definitely not a criterion to evaluate it. Some people may be genetically thin but could be equally fit compared to others. Your physique actually has less to do with your fitness level and longevity. To get a more accurate result, here are five things you must measure and try to improve to stay mentally and physically fit.

Stamina

Stamina is the mental and physical ability to perform an activity for an extended period. It is the ability to perform an activity without getting tired and even feel energetic after the session. While playing sports and running marathons stamina is crucial to complete the entire game or the race without compromising with the performance.

How to improve stamina: To build stamina, limit your recovery time while performing any exercise. Increase the number of repetitions and increase the intensity of your workout.

Flexibility

Being flexible is another crucial aspect of being physically fit. It is defined as the ability of a joint or muscles to move in a wide range of motion. Being flexible helps you carry out your day to day activity with ease without injuring yourself. Although the flexibility of a person varies from age, exercising can make a great difference. How to improve it: Flexibility can be easily increased by performing yoga and stretching exercises. The technique of holding the muscle and joints for a long time in these exercises can help to increase your mobility and range of motion.

Strength

Strength training improves your ability to do everyday activities. Having strong muscular strength can protect your joints from injury while lifting heavy weights in day to day life. It can contribute to better balance and may reduce your risk of falls. Moreover, building muscles improves your body composition. How to improve it: Performing bodyweight exercises and lifting weight is the best way to increase muscular strength. Apart from this, walking on a hill and cycling also helps to some extent.

Balance

Could you balance your body weight on one leg for a minute? If the answer is no then you need to work on it. Balance is defined as the body’s ability to prevent falls during a particular exercise and maintaining the centre of gravity for support. It is vital for performing several activities in a day and particularly important for older adults. How to improve it: All the exercises that help to strengthen your lower body and core can help to improve your balance. Try walking uphills and bodyweight exercises.

Posture

Maintaining a good body posture helps to improve your personality and also keeps your bones and joints in optimal alignment. They reduce the tear and down of the muscles and ligaments. Slouching, locking of knees and rounding of shoulders are unhealthy body postures and increases the risk of arthritis, osteoporosis and cervical pain. How to improve it: Practise yoga and strength training exercises to improve your posture. Also, pay attention to your posture throughout the day while walking and sitting and correct it.