We Americans have an obsession with abs—i.e., abdominal muscles for all the world to see. I tell people that “I have a six-pack, but it is in a soft cooler.” I am all for healthy lean. In fact, I am in the final weeks of a quest to shed some body fat. I don’t discount the effort of body builders and physique/bikini competitors who work hard and sacrifice to show. I know few, however, who maintain the “shred” for long after competition. Fewer still, who will tell you it is a healthy and fun lifestyle.
One’s priority should first be health. Obesity is out of control in the United States. Excess—dare I say “excessive”—fat is the norm. Obesity is not a healthy option. Diabetes and heart disease and a plethora of hypokinetic diseases are not in the best interest of the individual or the nation.
Why is it that a nation so fixated on six-pack abs is for overweight? Is our fatness such a bad thing?
There is a healthy medium to be had here. First, be physically active. Exercise and be capable of moving to an extent that allows for a wide range of leisure-time activities. A little fat? So, what?
If you want to be on the lean side? Go for it! Work the muscles. Eat a healthy diet. Be active.
Don’t mind being a little chubby or, like me, your genes don’t favor you being “shredded”. Enjoy! Work the muscles. Eat a healthy diet. Be active.
Of the health-related component of physical fitness (cardiorespiratory endurance, muscle strength, muscle endurance, flexibility, and body composition), body composition—within reasonable limits—is the least important. I like food—in moderation. I also like looking reasonably fit. Looking fit does not have to mean one can crack walnuts on my stomach. It does mean the absence of “Dunlap’s disease” (where your belly done lap over your belt).
Be fit and comfortable with your body. Don’t obsess. Don’t live life with dangerous food issues. Seek health, first. Healthy is sexy.
What should your (healthy) body fat percentage be?
Be your best today; be better tomorrow! Carpe momento!