Fitness vs. Wellness – What’s the Difference?

We often hear these two terms used interchangeably, but the truth is that they mean very different things. One can be very fit but not well and the converse also applies. You can be well, but not fit.

What does Being Fit mean?

Experts define physical fitness as “One’s ability to execute daily activities with optimal performance, endurance, and strength with the management of fatigue, stress, and reduced sedentary behavior.”
When you think of a physically fit person most of us think of someone who visually looks like they are in good shape. Solid, with some muscle definition and a lower body fat percentage. Someone who is strong, mobile, and able-bodied both cardio vascularly as well as structurally.

What does it Mean to Be Well?

A state of wellness is more a full picture of someone who has achieved a state of good health and is free from illness both mentally and physically.
They are not necessarily in “good shape” in the way an athlete might be, but they are healthy, feel good, and are able to enjoy life without physical limitations.

The Ideal of Health & Fitness

This is why the two terms are often combined into a category of “Health & Wellness” or “Fitness & Wellness”. Ideally, to achieve true balance and harmony within the body and mind you would be fit and healthy as well as have an over all sense of positive well-being.

The Body Positivity Movement

The body positivity movement has done wonders to bring attention to the importance of wellness and self-care. For that, we applaud the efforts. While it is incredibly important, to love and care for yourself no matter what shape you are in, it isn’t, on a physical level, healthy to carry around excess weight, and in this movement that has been glossed right over in a misguided effort to help people feel better about themselves.
A True State of Health, Fitness, and Wellness Is Balance
Being fit without being well still leaves you lacking just as being well without being fit can. It is vital to love yourself unconditionally, but also to love yourself enough to really and truly care about your health and well-being by taking care of your body. Eat well, get exercise regularly, drink good clean water, and get regular checkups.

Health, Fitness and Wellbeing Can Always be Improved Upon

No matter what shape you are in now, physically, or emotionally, there is always room for growth. Before beginning any exercise regimen, it is a good idea to consult your doctor. He may also be able to offer you guidance and advice that could really help you to achieve the goals you have in mind.

If you are in the Fort Myers, Florida area we invite you to visit Kaster Chiropractic and Associates. We specialize in nutrition, weight loss, and body transformations through the use of customized supplementation and diet planning.

Additionally, if you plan to start a workout program it is vital your spine be in alignment, so you avoid injury and are able to build on your current physique without any excess wear and tear due to misalignments.
Give the office a call at 239-332-2555 or visit www.kasterchiropractic.com to learn more or schedule!