The Difference between Health and Fitness

Did you know there is a difference between being healthy and being fit? Being healthy is simply being free of disease. There are many people out there whose physical and mental wellness are without complication, completely healthy but cannot run a 5k or do one power clean. 

Fitness is the ability to complete a task or role. A marathon runner is fit to run 26.2 miles, a powerlifter is fit to lift heavy, and a sprinter is fit to sprint. There are equally as many people who are fit and in poor health. How many of us remember Lance Armstrong and his fight with cancer?

Fitness and Health are not always congruent but they will inevitably affect one another. You can be healthy but unable to dress. You may be fit to teach quantum physics but unable to stand at the podium (i.e. Stephen Hawking). The first thing we must do is establish which is of greater importance to us and get it. Afterward, we can do things that support the other. This is the definition of wellness.

To successfully reach your goal, we must do two things. First, we must define your goal. Second, we must know where you are in relationship to that goal. Together they form a roadmap for you to follow to success. Remember to check your map frequently. Obstacles will arise that alter your course but your map will get you back on track quickly.