In this report, Sunday Ehigiator delve into the multifaceted world of fitness and wellness, shedding light on the distinctions between fitness, wellness, shedding, and bodybuilding, while also speaking with Certified Health & Wellness Expert, Seyi Olusore, who brings to bare his 20 years of experience as a fitness coach
In today’s fast-paced world, the quest for a healthier lifestyle has taken centre stage. Now, more than ever, individuals across the globe are eager to embrace fitness routines and wellness practices that not only transform their bodies but also enhance their overall well-being.
Carrying around too much weight feels uncomfortable, and it can also damage your health. The average adult male who doesn’t exercise requires approximately 2,200 calories a day to maintain his average weight. A female needs about 1,800 calories to maintain her weight, according to fitness experts.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), obesity rates have skyrocketed in recent years. Obesity can lead to several serious health problems, including heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and some types of cancer.
Healthy dieting
One method that can help a person lose weight is to limit the number of calories taken in through their diet. The other way is to burn extra calories with exercise.
Combining exercise with a healthy diet is a more effective way to lose weight than depending on calorie restriction alone. Exercise can prevent or even reverse the effects of certain diseases. Exercise lowers blood pressure and cholesterol, which may prevent a heart attack.
In addition, if you exercise, you lower your risk of developing certain types of cancers such as colon and breast cancer. Exercise is also known to help contribute to a sense of confidence and well-being, thus possibly lowering rates of anxiety and depression.
Exercise is helpful for weight loss and maintaining weight loss. Exercise can increase metabolism, or how many calories you burn in a day. It can also help you maintain and increase lean body mass, which also helps increase the number of calories you burn each day.
Global recommendations
To reap the health benefits of exercise, it is recommended that you perform some form of aerobic exercise at least three times a week for a minimum of 20 minutes per session.
However, more than 20 minutes is better if you want to lose weight. Incorporating just 15 minutes of moderate exercise, such as walking one mile, daily will burn up to 100 extra calories (assuming you don’t consume excess calories in your diet afterwards). Burning 700 calories a week can equal 10 lbs. of weight loss over a year.
It is also noteworthy that the total amount of exercise you engage in during a day matters more than whether or not you do it in a single session. That’s why small changes in your daily routine can make a big difference in your waistline.
Habits such as walking or riding your bike to work or while running errands taking the stairs instead of the elevator, parking farther away from destinations and walking the remaining distance, go a long way to help burn unwanted calories.
In the pursuit of more knowledge on these subjects, we reached out to Seyi Olusore, a Certified Health & Wellness Expert certified by Arizona State University, USA.
Armed with a Certificate in CPR/AED/First-Aid from the National CPR Foundation USA and a Fellowship from the Institute of Registered Exercise Professionals, Olusore’s insights provide valuable guidance in the quest for a healthier lifestyle.
Fitness, a universal goal
Fitness is perhaps the most common term in the realm of health and wellness. It encompasses a wide range of activities aimed at improving physical health. Whether it’s jogging in the park, hitting the gym, or practising yoga, fitness routines aim to enhance cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and endurance. Olusore emphasises that “fitness is about achieving a state of well-being where your body is capable of performing daily activities efficiently.”
Understanding wellness
Wellness, on the other hand, takes a holistic approach to health. It goes beyond the physical and delves into emotional, social, and mental well-being.
According to Olusore, “Wellness is about achieving balance in all aspects of your life. It’s about finding harmony between your physical health, emotional state, and social connections.
“Wellness practices may include meditation, stress management, and maintaining healthy relationships.”
Shedding/weight management made simple
Shedding, also known as weight loss or weight management is a critical component of overall health.
Olusore explains that “Shedding focuses on maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise. It’s about shedding excess weight and maintaining a healthy body mass index. Shedding can be an essential step toward achieving fitness and wellness.”
Bodybuilding and sculpting for strength
For those looking to achieve a sculpted physique and maximise muscle growth, bodybuilding is the path to follow. Olusore adds “Bodybuilding is a specialized form of fitness that focuses on muscle hypertrophy and strength. It involves rigorous resistance training, precise nutrition, and targeted exercises to achieve specific body composition goals.”
A global fitness movement
Around the world, dedicated fitness enthusiasts and experts are making substantial contributions to the well-being of individuals and communities. In Nigeria and beyond, pioneers like Seyi Olusore are leading the way with their commitment to health and wellness.
Olusore, with his two books, ‘I Am Me’ and ‘What Time Is It?’ shares invaluable knowledge, empowering individuals to take control of their health.
Beyond the borders of Nigeria, various fitness trends are emerging. From the rise of virtual fitness classes and personal training apps to the incorporation of functional fitness routines and mindfulness practices, the landscape of fitness is continuously evolving. It’s worth noting that the importance of mental health in overall well-being is gaining increasing recognition worldwide.
Choosing the right path
When it comes to selecting the right path for your fitness journey, there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The choice between fitness, wellness, shedding, or bodybuilding depends on your personal goals, preferences, and current health status.
Olusore underscores the importance of consulting a healthcare professional or a certified fitness expert to design a personalized plan that aligns with your objectives.
In conclusion, the quest for a healthier lifestyle is an endeavour that transcends borders. Whether you are in Nigeria or anywhere else in the world, understanding the distinctions between fitness, wellness, shedding, and bodybuilding can empower you to make informed decisions about your health.
The guidance of experts like Seyi Olusore and the ever-evolving trends in the fitness landscape are valuable resources on your journey to a healthier, happier life. Embrace the path that resonates with you, and let your fitness journey begin.
