How Fit You Are?

You always have a vague idea about your fitness levels and stamina but if someone questions you in-depth about your own fitness, you might get perplexed. Knowing ones fitness level is as important as knowing ones waist size. You might be able to set better fitness goals if you know where you stand today.

Scientists recommend that overall fitness is based on muscular and aerobic fitness, flexibility and body composition.  You would need the following to measure your fitness levels:

-A stop watch

-A measure tape

-Heavy Duty tape

-Yardstick

-Someone to help out during the test

Muscular Strength Test

Here you will have to do push-ups/knee push-ups/toe push ups (depending on your level). Count as many push-ups you can do without breaking in for rest, the more push-ups means higher fitness level.

Aerobic Fitness Test

Here you need to take a mile walk anywhere you want, in your locality, shopping complex etc. the decision is yours. You will have to check your pulse before and after the walk. To check your pulse you can keep two fingers between your bones and muscle on over your radial artery (located on the side of the thumb of your wrist). Clicks start the watch when you feel the first pulse and count the number of pulses in 15 seconds.   Another option is an electronic gadget that monitors your pulse rate.

How flexible are your legs/hands and lower back?

You can check this with a sit and reach test. Place the yardstick on the group and secure it by placing a tape at 15-inches. Evenly place the sole of your foot at the 15-inch mark. The helper will place their hands on your knees to anchor them. Go forward as far as possible and hold the position for 2 seconds. Do this 3 times and note your reaches.

Body Composition:

This can be achieved by a result of your BMI and waist circumference. Measure the smallest point of your waist with a tape and calculate your BMI. Record these scores.