THERE IS A DEFINITE RELATIONSHIP
Our body image is how we perceive and feel about our physical structure – our size, weight, shape and general appearance. Negative body images may develop from peer groups, our families and other social pressures. Unfair and brutal, but often true.
A positive body image can improve self-esteem, self-acceptance and our relationship with food and physical activity.
Physical fitness can have a positive impact on our self confidence in several ways, not all of which are related to our appearance.
HOW FITNESS BOOSTS CONFIDENCE
Improved physical appearance. Regular exercise can help us achieve and maintain a healthy weight. We may build, define or “tone” our muscles and improve our overall physical appearance. We can build our self esteem when we feel good about how we look.
Increased energy levels. Exercise has been shown to improve our energy and reduce feelings of fatigue. With more energy, we are more likely to pursue personal goals and engage in social activities. This contributes to a sense of accomplishment and confidence.
Enhanced mood and well being. Exercise stimulates the production of endorphins, the body’s natural mood elevators. Regular exercise can reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, leading to improved mental well being and greater self confidence. See my prior post on the impact of physical fitness on our mental health.
Stress reduction. Exercise is a natural stress reliever. Managing stress through physical activity can contribute to a more positive outlook on life and we can face challenges with more confidence.
Increased strength and physical competence. As we progress in our fitness journeys, we are very likely to experience improvements in our strength, flexibility and athletic ability. This promotes a sense of accomplishment and greater self confidence.
Salma Hayek, shown below, has what may be considered a unique view on exercise. Maybe a casual view. She only does what she likes to do – dancing, walking her dogs or swimming in the ocean. She may work out with dumbbells, unless she decides to sit down near a beach and have a beer. It works for her. She looks great and is aging very gracefully. There is much to say about choosing a form of exercise that we enjoy!!
HOME FITNESS TRAINING EQUIPMENT
For home fitness training, we may choose from a variety of equipment options. This depends on our preferences, fitness goals and available space. Widely used fitness tools include the following:
- Dumbbells – versatile, space efficient and useful for many workout forms.
- Resistance bands – convenient, portable and useful for full body workouts.
- Exercise ball – core strengthening and stability training
- Jump rope – simple but effective for cardio
- Kettlebells – like dumbbells, useful for many muscle groups
- Yoga mat – for floor exercise, stretching and yoga
- Treadmill or stationary bike – for cardiovascular fitness. I use my treadmill every day.
- Pull-up bar – great for upper body strength training and easily installed in doorways
AMAZON
I am an Amazon associate and usually find that their links will coincide with my fitness topics. I may earn from purchases made from the links, though this has no effect on the pricing. Each link will show full descriptions, pictures and suggestions for other similar or complementary items.
Loop resistance bands (booty bands)
Kettlebell set, lighter weight
Nordic Track treadmill – I use this model. Very durable, yet relatively inexpensive.
FINAL THOUGHTS
For more equipment information, take a look at my two permanent links at the side of my website:
- Bullworker Fitness – for high quality home workout tools, combining isotonic movements with isometrics
- Dick’s Sporting Goods – the largest sporting goods merchant in the U.S. and a top source for athletic equipment of all kinds
Consistency is the key to effective physical fitness exercise and thereby greater self confidence. Staying with a routine is far more important than occasional intensity.
Enjoying specific exercise is also crucial, Salma Hayek being a good example. Many of us enjoy playing a sport, apart from the benefits of the fitness exercise. Winning a match or game is an obvious confidence builder, as is competing at increasingly higher levels.
Please leave me any comments or questions in the “Comments” section below. Or email me, richard@myworkoutathome.com.
Choose a lifestyle of fitness and health. You will never regret that choice!
