When you are healthy, it is taken for granted until it is gone. However, once it is lost, you realize its true significance and find yourself reflecting on your past lifestyle choices. Any problem should be addressed in its infancy, when the issue is still small. Problems allowed to grow through neglect or delay become far more difficult to resolve.
In modern times, it is arguably common knowledge that exercise benefits not only the body but also the mind. Yet, it takes time for these effects to manifest. The reason many people give up before seeing a change is that they are forced to confront the heavy reality that their current body is the “accumulation of their past.” It is only natural that paying off the debts of past negligence requires a corresponding amount of time and patience.
One reason for failing to persist is unclear goal setting. A vague goal like “to lose weight” is insufficient. To achieve dramatic physical change, an intensity of exercise beyond your imagination, sustained effort, and proper nutrition and rest are indispensable.
While modern civilisation undeniably has led to physical inactivity, it also provides tools to counteract it. The smartwatch is a prime example. By providing clear numerical metrics, it visualises minute changes, making it easier to maintain motivation.
Ironically, there is something almost comical about people who, having been liberated from manual labor by civilization, go out of their way to drive to a gym just to lift heavy weights or run in place. Nevertheless, regardless of the means, the fact that exercise is a necessity for everyone living today remains an indisputable truth.