WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE FIT?

It is interesting that if you look for the definitions of this word in the modern dictionary, you can really get a good idea of the true meaning of it. The reality is however, that while it is not hidden, it is overlooked.

The general meaning of the word "FIT" can be summed up along the lines of being "suited to the circumstances", "meeting adequate standards for a purpose", "physically and mentally sound and healthy", "in harmony with".

So, what circumstances should we be suited for? According to today's prevalent point of view, we should focus on developing specific body parts, muscle groups and character traits based on the particular sport activity we have chosen to pursue.

But what about being fit for life? For the unexpected, like falling but not breaking anything? For stressful and for challenging situations, like having to perform your best under pressure or simply being able to withstand life's tribulations? Or being fit for fun and games without injuries?

Our understanding of human fitness has unquestionably evolved. It went full circle from graceful Greeks to medieval Quasimodos to modern day Terminators. Having achieved the maximum in human muscles' (size and strength development) perfection, we can now see that the physical aspect of being fit is not the only one that exists and needs to be developed.

A truly fit person is in perfect synergy with his/her surroundings, moving gracefully in space and time regardless of the activity. A fit person is in perfect balance physiologically, psychologically and emotionally, mentally and spiritually.

Now we're approaching arguably the best understanding of fitness in human history. With a better understanding of our environment comes a deeper understanding of our place and role in it. With that comes clarity as to what needs to be done to achieve our best fitness.

Article by Dr. Nicholas Romanov
Composed by L. Romanov