How Fit Are You, Really?

How fit are you, really? If someone asked you that question, what would you base your answer on? How fast you can run? How much you can lift? How you look? Whether you go to the gym? The problem is that fitness isn't one thing. In this episode of The Fundamentals of Fitness, Alison breaks down what being "fit" actually means and introduces a simple Fitness MOT to help you assess your own physical capacity. We explore cardiovascular fitness, strength, mobility, balance, power and everyday movement—and why someone can be incredibly fit in one area while struggling in another. You'll also discover how to build a well-rounded training week without spending your entire life in the gym. Because ultimately, fitness shouldn't just make you better at exercise. It should make you better prepared for your life. This Week's Challenge Do your Fitness MOT. Give yourself a subjective score from 1–5 for: Cardiovascular fitnessStrengthMobilityBalance and controlDon't compare your numbers with anyone else's. Find your lowest score. Then ask: "If I improved this, what would become easier in my life?" That's your starting point. CONNECT WITH ALISON For no-nonsense fitness, training, and mindset support, you can find me here: Instagram: @abperformancetraining TikTok: @abperformancetraining Facebook: AB Performance Training & Coaching Website: abperformance.training DISCLAIMER The information shared on The Fundamentals of Fitness podcast is for educational purposes only and should not be taken as medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your training, nutrition, or health routines. References: Mandsager, K. et al. (2018) ‘Association of cardiorespiratory fitness with long-term mortality among adults undergoing exercise treadmill testing’, JAMA Network Open, 1(6), e183605. Garber, C.E. et al. (2011) ‘Quantity and quality of exercise for developing and maintaining cardiorespiratory, musculoskeletal, and neuromotor fitness in apparently healthy adults: Guidance for prescribing exercise’, Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, 43(7), pp. 1334–1359. Bull, F.C. et al. (2020) ‘World Health Organization 2020 guidelines on physical activity and sedentary behaviour’, British Journal of Sports Medicine, 54(24), pp. 1451–1462. Fragala, M.S. et al. (2019) ‘Resistance training for older adults: Position statement from the National Strength and Conditioning Association’, Journal of Strength and Conditioning Research, 33(8), pp. 2019–2052. Izquierdo, M. et al. (2021) ‘International exercise recommendations in older adults (ICFSR): Expert consensus guidelines’, The Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging, 25, pp. 824–853.