Get Back to Health and Fitness Fundamentals for 2013

Athletic coaches understand that when their team is performing disappointingly it is usually a result of poor fundamentals. A winning team will have good fundamentals with each player executing the basics of their sport without a single mistake. Fundamentals always separate a successful season from one that is forgettable.

Your good health is, in the very same fashion, dependent on you sticking to good health and fitness fundamentals. If you find yourself not feeling well or out of sorts in any way, it is always best to check your health and fitness fundamentals first.

The next time you decide to use some drastic procedure or complicated potion to sooth your aches and pains or lose those last ten pounds, make sure your good health and fitness fundamentals are all properly in place first.

Here are my favorite four good health and fitness fundamentals. Yes, I try to practice them each and every day - and, yes, I can feel a difference when I don't.

No. 1 - Drink Enough Water

I can't stress this good health and fitness fundamental enough.  Nine out of 10 people that I evaluate in my office are showing some signs of dehydration.  Water is especially important in joint lubrication, digestion and circulation. Headaches, joint pains, muscle aches, sleep difficulties, dry mouth and eyes can all be related to your hydration levels.

Too little water makes your various organ and joint systems have to compete for water. I have several clients that have eliminated as much as 90 percent of their over the counter pain medication just by drinking more water. 

No. 2 -  Get a Good Night's Sleep

Sleep is the most important time in a 24-hour day. A good sleep helps your mind process the day’s events while allowing your body to begin the healing and repair process. I evaluate too many people that are not getting enough sleep or their sleep quality is very poor.

Having difficulty sleeping is usually indicative of an uncontrolled stressful lifestyle. If you are not sleeping well or getting enough sleep, fixing this fundamental will ensure a healthier and happier you.  

No. 3 - Eat a Balanced Diet

I often  hear people talk about how poorly they feel or how much weight they have to lose. I hear them talk about all the vitamins they are taking and the special shakes or protein bars. Then I watch what they eat and drink and think to myself, "well, no wonder."

The food you eat is vitally important as to how well you will feel. Many people I evaluate do not eat a well balanced diet, they also eat in a hurry or on the run and don't get a good variety of foods. Switching over to good fundamental nutrition habits helps your body feel better in many ways. 

No. 4 - Get Some Physical Activity

Your body wants to move even when it hurts or aches. Every study that I have read says that movement, of some type, is good for your joints, organs, muscles and nerves.

Most people are too ridged with their physical activity fundamental, and instead of finding something that will work, they do nothing instead. I am a big believer in just getting yourself moving. Don't buy into this "you need to exercise three times a week for an hour" message. Just put your shoes on and go for a short walk. If you are more motivated that day, add some push-ups and balance activities.

Baby steps will get you off the couch and help you start to feel better.