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Monday, April 2, 2012

The Four Components of Fitness and Health

Do you know there are four types of work-outs to ensure you are fit and healthy?  Most people think there are two, a few think there are three, but there are actually four.  And no, this isn't "diet and exercise", this is the exercise part of that equation.  You probably are already thinking of the first two, getting close on the third, but maybe are stumped, so here goes!

First, the two that most everyone is screaming in their head: Strength training and cardio.  Those are the old stand-by's and most programs are based on one or the other, or sometimes both.  The third type is actually lumped in with your "warm-up" and occasionally a cool down (Got it now? Good). Yes, stretching and flexibility work is actually an important third component, and isn't just part of the other two.

The fourth component of a balanced and effective workout plan, that will help you lead a well-balanced life with balance in all your activities is BALANCE!  As we age, we stop doing all those fun things we did as kids that helped us work on balance and body control-riding bicycles, skating/skateboards, walking on narrow curbs/walls etc., climbing, handstands.  We don't keep track of subtle changes in our body, or in our ability to closely control it due to modern life.  We all hear the stories of falls and spills that result in broken bones, and often these never heal, becoming chronic, life altering injuries.

So there are the four components of a well structured and balanced workout plan.  I know my current plan is short on cardio, and a little short on balance work.  I'll address each of the four with some ideas and tips over the next few days.

Created fitness, my friends!

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