Did you know that thin people can be just as at risk for obesity-related health conditions as those who are overweight? It’s true: A small waistline doesn’t always equal a high fitness level. Sadly, our society has placed too much emphasis on the scale when it comes to health.
The Truth About Weight
Even the skinniest bodies can be coated with visceral fat, which is the most dangerous kind. This type of body fat leads to problems like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.
According to an article in Time, the phenomenon of “skinny fat” is a real problem — one that can be deadly if not addressed. In fact, a study conducted in 2008 found that approximately one-fourth of U.S. adults categorized as being of a “normal” weight actually suffer from an unhealthy heart.
Measuring Your Real Health
So, if weight doesn’t determine health, how do you know your true fitness level? In addition to the absence of disease, consider these five factors:
Getting Healthy With Exercise
Even if you’re a size zero, exercise is crucial for preventing disease and other health complications. The trick to a successful workout routine is determining what works for you, and then finding the support you need to stick with it.
At the Downtown Athletic Club, we offer several programs to meet your fitness needs and help you get healthy, including group classes and personal training. When you’re ready to take the next step toward your health goals, feel free to schedule a tour of our facility.
The Truth About Weight
Even the skinniest bodies can be coated with visceral fat, which is the most dangerous kind. This type of body fat leads to problems like type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke.
According to an article in Time, the phenomenon of “skinny fat” is a real problem — one that can be deadly if not addressed. In fact, a study conducted in 2008 found that approximately one-fourth of U.S. adults categorized as being of a “normal” weight actually suffer from an unhealthy heart.
Measuring Your Real Health
So, if weight doesn’t determine health, how do you know your true fitness level? In addition to the absence of disease, consider these five factors:
- The Mile Run - Even if you exercise regularly, running just one mile will give you an idea of your cardiovascular health. Were you able to complete the mile without stopping? How long did it take?
- Calorie Burning on a Bike - Cycle sprints on a stationary bike are an effective way to assess your fitness level. An adult of average health should burn between 25 and 35 calories in one minute of this exercise.
- Treading Water - Treading (not swimming) for 15 minutes straight is pretty exhausting, but should be doable for most healthy adults after a bit of practice.
- The Leisure Walk - We were born to walk, but most of us don’t actually do much walking during the day. Someone with a moderate fitness level should be able to walk for two hours at a normal pace without becoming overtired.
- Visiting Your Doctor - The best and most accurate way to determine how healthy you really are is to visit your doctor. Take control of your health by receiving a complete physical every year.
Getting Healthy With Exercise
Even if you’re a size zero, exercise is crucial for preventing disease and other health complications. The trick to a successful workout routine is determining what works for you, and then finding the support you need to stick with it.
At the Downtown Athletic Club, we offer several programs to meet your fitness needs and help you get healthy, including group classes and personal training. When you’re ready to take the next step toward your health goals, feel free to schedule a tour of our facility.
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