Fitness Freak?

Ever been called a fitness freak? Or maybe a health nut? What does it really mean and is it justified?

It's worth pointing out that there are situations where exercise and nutrition can become an obsession or even addictive. Here, I am referring to an average person who consistently engages in a physically active and healthy lifestyle.

Perhaps you have a home gym set up. Maybe you shop at organic whole food stores. Maybe you excitedly talk about your new workout program. At some stage, somebody is bound to call you names.

Why?

I once worked with a man who was very fit. He bicycled to work, and would go running most days - some of these runs were very intense. He generally looked after his diet. I may not have called him a 'fitness freak' to his face - but I would shake my head and think it.

If I try and examine my thoughts (in hindsight) - here is what I come up with:

- I was jealous of the amount of time he had available to pursue these things. At the time I had a number of responsibilities and commitments that this person didn't.
- Deep down I wished I had that kind of fitness - but knew that there was no way that I could possibly motivate myself to be that dedicated.
- I would feel lazy just being nearby this guy.

Looking at those points - there is a common word: I.

It was all about my own frustrations and feelings.

If someone calls you names just because you are going to the gym 4 times per week - it is highly likely that their comments are more about themselves than your activities.