We've all seen the advertisements and infomercials featuring models with abs chiseled from granite, the gams of a goddess, butts that defy all logic and physics, and arms straight from the statue of David. And let's be honest with one another when we see these "perfect" specimens: We're all susceptible to this type of hype, as marketers tap into our primal need to compare our physical appearance to each other - this author included - and our desire to appear attractive and healthy. We should not assume that just because someone has a "perfect" body that they're perfectly healthy -- or even in shape. I've known and consulted with many of these seemingly fit people throughout the years, from professional models to the local gym's resident meathead. They may look the part with svelte bodies and rippling muscles, but they were in fact laying waste to their internal health with extreme dieting and supplements, or excessive amounts of exercise, to the point of chronic injury and in rare cases, hospitalization. I'm not saying that a chiseled body and abs of steel mean that a person is unhealthy -- often, these in-shape physiques were hard-earned through healthy eating, sensible exercise, and a whole lot of work and consistency. But, the general rule of thumb -- don't judge a book by its cover -- holds true with regards to health. No matter how fit and fabulous the cover may look, the real story lies within.
The take-away? Keep an eye on your internal health by scheduling regular check-ups with your doctor; they are as essential in monitoring your overall fitness as trips to the gym. Your health history, family health history, blood pressure, cholesterol levels, blood sugar, prescribed medicine and the like should be considered when creating a personalized fitness plan. Your personal trainer should work with results from your general practitioner in developing the most effective fitness plan to get you great results, both inside and out. There's more to great health than meets the eye, and there's more to fitness than rock-hard abs: something to remember this spring!