As a relatively new member of the team at Coach House Fitness, I was delighted to be asked to write my first column for Oswestry Life. I wanted to focus on something that has shaped my own fitness journey and the message I hope to share as a personal trainer: what does it really mean to be healthy?
Social media has created an unrealistic idea of what the “perfect” body should look like. We constantly see edited photos, carefully chosen angles and unrealistic standards. It can be difficult not to compare ourselves and feel as though we are never quite good enough.
But health isn’t about looking “perfect”.
Health is about having the energy to enjoy life, the strength to do the things you love and the confidence to feel comfortable in your own body. It is about feeling good on the inside, not simply looking good on the outside.
Sometimes taking care of your health means going to the gym, lifting weights or going for a run. But it can also mean taking a walk, getting enough sleep or enjoying a meal with family and friends.
We also need to change the way we think about nutrition. Food is not something we need to earn, and exercise should not be used as punishment for eating. Our bodies need food for energy, strength and everyday life. A healthy lifestyle should include enjoyment, not guilt.
The fitness industry can make being healthy seem complicated, expensive and intimidating. But it doesn’t have to be. You don’t need fancy gym wear, supplements or equipment to make positive changes. Small, realistic habits can have a greater impact over time.
Instead of chasing the “perfect” body, perhaps we should focus on a better life. Move because you enjoy feeling strong. Eat because your body needs fuel. Rest because your body deserves recovery.
Health is not about becoming someone else. It’s about becoming the healthiest version of you.
To learn more, visit www.coachhousefitness.net, or to book a free 30-minute consultation and gym trial, email us at info@coachhousefitness.net.
Ffion, PT & Fitness Instructor.
