More and more evidence leads to the understanding that being fit is healthy and that doesn’t mean being skinny. For generations we’ve been told that fat is unhealthy and being thin is healthy. As a result, society has encouraged people to get thinner to get healthier. Thankfully there is greater understanding of what it means to be fit and healthy.
It is now being recognized that you can have a larger body and still be fit and healthy. That doesn’t mean that weight has no impact on health conditions. Obesity is linked to diabetes, heart disease, and some cancers. What the health profession is starting to realize is weight is not necessarily an accurate indicator of health.
On average, one in four skinny people have pre-diabetes and are metabolically obese. These people are known as being “skinny fat”. They possess a relatively high body fat content and a very low muscle mass. So they might look great on the beach but instead of muscles underneath, it’s mostly fat and inflammation.
The idea that being skinny leads to a happier, prettier, and healthier you needs to change. Although there is nothing wrong with wanting to slim down, the focus should be on health and fitness, instead of getting as thin as possible. Gaining strength and fitness will lead to a more confident and healthier person.
So how do you do it? Think of it as small lifestyle changes. Choose healthy foods that will give your body the fuel it needs to be active. Get out and try new activities such as boxing, cross fit, weight training, walking, jogging, swimming, yoga, or Pilates. Find an activity that you enjoy and you will be more likely to stick with it.
Bottom line:
Stop looking at the scale and focus on how active and strong you can be.
