If 2020 taught us anything, it taught us to recognize how important it is to take care of yourself.  As COVID-19 gripped raced through the world population, though we knew very little about the disease in the beginning, it was apparent that one’s own health could be a determining factor as to how the disease could impact an individual.  Three professionals who can have a great effect on your health; a doctor, a personal trainer and a nutritionist.

While no one can be spared from catching the disease, the overarching theme was that the healthier in individual is, the stronger their immune system may be in fending off the attack on the body.  While that is by no means absolute, those who have pre-existing conditions, or are immuno-compromised, are more susceptible to succumbing to the effects of the virus.  This means that the healthier an individual is, the better they are at mitigating the risks of suffering from the effects of COVD-19.  Also, if a healthier individual contracts the virus, their bodies are better prepared to fight off the disease and less likely to suffer any long-term adverse effects.

So What Can A Person Do?  Here is a Very Broad 3-Point Plan

Get Your Annual Physical

Not only is this something you should do every year, but it is also a simple event that can help you to know what is going on inside your body.  The things you can’t see.  Sometimes it can even shed light on things you may be feeling, but couldn’t explain.  Most importantly is knowing your numbers.  Getting your bloodwork done.  Checking your heart.  Making sure your body is operating as it should.  If there are any red flags, plan on how to address them.  The bottom line, this is the foundation, starting point of any fitness program.

Exercise

Our bodies need to move.  Our bodies need to be strong.  We don’t need to be Olympic bodybuilders, but we need to be strong enough, flexible enough to handle our daily tasks and some other normal tasks that take additional strength.  Moving a dining chair, a heavy box, shovel snow, helping a friend move your average couch are examples of things one should be able to do.  Of course, age appropriateness is important.  If you are unsure on what or how to begin a fitness program, hire a personal trainer to help you get started.  Personal trainers are also great for ongoing fitness training.

Nutrition

Eating well is of greater importance than almost anything.  What we put in our bodies helps our bodies to function.  If you eat poorly, you will not feel as good as you can.  Eat well, you’ll feel more energized, recover faster from exercise or illness (two sides of the spectrum), sleep better and be happier.  While there are some basic rules to follow, eating well means different things to each individual.  Looking to eat better?  Reach out to a nutritionist to help you devise a plan that is best for you.  They may also be able to take you on a field trip to your local grocery store.  That way you know what to put in your kitchen.  Eating well starts with your grocery list.