Getting fit involves more than just a few trips to the gym or heading out for a brisk jog after work. The process takes time and is deeply rooted in proven science, which concerns the physiological and mental aspects of your health.
To start your fitness journey with purpose and commitment, you must first understand the foundations. Before you put the science into practice, it’s worth knowing a few of the keystones and mechanisms behind positive and lasting changes to your health.
What does fitness mean?
In general, the term fitness encompasses three different types of conditioning to your body.
These include strength, flexibility, and aerobic fitness. Someone with exceptional aerobic fitness usually takes part in endurance exercise like running or cycling. In fact, there are several different types of exercise that reduce blood pressure.
However, a core notion of the science behind getting fit concerns several factors at play. These extend beyond what you can see and feel and can be best explained with the following pillars.
The science behind fitness: Three key pillars
1. Physiological development
Changes that occur in the body are at the core of the science behind fitness.
As you get stronger, your muscles encounter microscopic tears to build size and strength. And, as your body becomes more resilient, you also start to use energy sources more efficiently, which helps with weight management. With a boost to your metabolism, you’ll feel energised and ready for new challenges.
In response to the increased exercise and physical demands, your cardiovascular system adapts, which leads to improved heart health. As the heart becomes more efficient, the risk of cardiovascular diseases reduces.
2. Discipline and habit
For anyone to succeed in a fitness plan, understanding the science behind habit formation is critical. As you start to do something more regularly, the brain forms new connections called neural pathways. These associate repeated behaviours with positive outcomes.
You can encourage habit by wearing your favourite player shirts or following your idols on social media. When you find activities or sports that align with your personal interests and passions, you’ll be more likely to commit to your fitness journey long-term. By showing consistency with your training and engaging in exercise, you reinforce these invaluable pathways.
3. Psychological benefits
Beyond changes to your body, the science of getting fit extends to your mental well-being too. There’s plenty of research linking exercise and mental health, and the NHS even recommends exercise as a tool for depression. With discipline and routine, the benefits only multiply.
Along with reduced symptoms of depression and anxiety, exercise naturally releases endorphins, which are hormones that act as a natural mood enhancer. When you pair these positive feelings with a genuine interest in the sport or activity you’ve chosen, you’ll feel more motivated in your exercise regime. The sense of community that comes with group sport plays a key role.
Overview
Physiological strength, psychological resilience and discipline must all be present for you to successfully build fitness. Without one of those three pillars, your fitness plan is either delayed or distracted. Once you commit to consistency, you’ll see results.
