Because of the pandemic, we often find ourselves spending most of our days working or studying from home. While working from home seems great initially, it can lead to less physical activity since we don't have to move around as much. It's crucial to stay fit even during quarantine because studies show that exercise not only helps our bodies but also boosts our mental well-being. Getting that ideal body while at home is a goal many dream of, but achieving it takes time—weeks, even months. Some people might want quicker results and end up pushing their bodies too hard. There's a fine line between working hard and overdoing it, and it's essential to understand the difference. As the saying goes, "Too much of anything can be bad." This applies to exercising too. So, let's break it down:
Knowing When You've Crossed the Line:
Everything in life is about balance. Just like eating too much junk food can make you gain weight, and drinking too much water can be harmful, pushing your body too hard during exercise can have consequences. When you exercise, you're putting stress on your body, similar to when you're stressed about work or personal issues. So, it's crucial to treat your body kindly and take breaks when needed. Your body knows best what it requires.
What Happens When You Overexert:
Overdoing it in your workouts can mess with your hormones. Excessive exercise can reset your hormones, undoing the progress you've made, which can also lead to emotional stress. Overworking can leave you tired all the time, make you addicted to exercising or lower your interest in certain activities. In the end, you might not achieve the body you desire. So, is it really worth the intense grind? Focusing on a healthy diet must also be part of the choices when you start working out.
Finding the Right Balance:
Exercising is meant to challenge your body and make it stronger. But, like with many things, balance is the key. The lines between working hard and overexerting yourself can be blurry, but the most important thing is to know when to stop and be patient with the results. Going all out in your fitness journey is tough enough, intensifying it by overexerting is like pushing yourself off a cliff. It's better to listen to your body than suffer the consequences of imbalance.
Knowing Your Body's Limits:
It's crucial to understand that everyone's body is different when it comes to endurance during workouts. Some might be stronger, some might be weaker, and that's okay. Comparing yourself to others and feeling bad about it won't help. Instead, understand what your body can handle and what it can't. Your body won't survive on the diet of models, and it won't handle the same portions as YouTubers doing eating challenges. Embrace these differences; they make you unique. As Thomas DeLauer humorously puts it, "It’s hard to look your best if you’re freakin’ dead."
In conclusion, it's about finding a balance, understanding your body's signals, and avoiding the pitfalls of overexertion. Taking care of your body is essential for long-term well-being. If you're curious about a holistic approach to fitness, delve into the pages of Jose Villablanca's "Holistically Fit." This approach goes beyond just physical exercise, encompassing mental and emotional well-being, providing a more comprehensive understanding of what it truly means to be fit. Embrace a balanced and mindful approach to your health, and you'll achieve your fitness goals and enhance your overall quality of life.
by Keisa Limdico