Kathmandu, May 7 – There is growing awareness regarding fitness. Often, this focus leans towards physical appearance—such as six-pack abs, lean physiques, and muscle definition. However, in our pursuit of such outward goals, we may overlook what really counts. It’s easy to lose sight of the fact that “appearing” fit doesn’t necessarily mean you’re actually healthy inside.
Many gym goers or people who “look healthy” don’t consider visiting a hospital for a basic health check-up because they feel strong and are confident in their bodies, unaware of what might be happening inside.
Saprina Shrestha, who co-owns The Pump (located at Chabahil) and founded Sappfit Wear, along with being a certified fitness instructor, explores the true essence of fitness.
What is the largest misconception people have regarding being “fit”?
A common misconception is that being physically robust or having a well-toned physique necessarily indicates good fitness levels. However, this isn’t always accurate. Simply looking healthy externally does not guarantee internal wellness.
For me, being fit means being well physically and mentally. It’s about having the energy and strength to carry out daily activities easily, not just lifting weights, but handling your lifestyle without struggle. That’s why regular health check-ups are so important. Looking good isn’t enough if your inner health is being ignored. Proper fitness is a balance between how you feel and function, not just how you appear.
How crucial are routine medical examinations for individuals who work out frequently?
Even if you exercise regularly, regular health check-ups are essential. Everyone should get a full-body check-up at least once a year. Unfortunately, many people in our society don’t follow this practice-we tend to neglect what’s going on inside our bodies while focusing only on the outside.
You might be lifting weights and running daily, but you won’t know how your organs function unless you scan and monitor your internal health. Through regular check-ups, you can track important health indicators like blood sugar, blood pressure, BMI, heart rate, kidney function, cholesterol levels, thyroid activity, and even get screened for conditions like diabetes or cancer. Staying fit is not just about exercise-it’s also about being informed and caring for your body from the inside out.
Can someone look fit but still have underlying health issues?
Absolutely. There can still be underlying health issues that aren’t visible. Especially for women, it’s essential to regularly scan and monitor internal organs-including the breasts, uterus, bladder, and gallbladder.
You might exercise every day but still face undetected problems. This has occurred with several of my clients and individuals close to me—active young women dealing with significant internal health concerns even though they seem outwardly fit. For this reason, routine medical examinations are equally crucial as staying physically active.
Do you work alongside physicians or dietitians for clients who have health concerns?
Yes. If someone is recovering from surgery or dealing with a medical issue, I always ask them whether their doctor has granted permission for training. I never move forward with a workout plan unless a medical professional recommends it.
Also, when it comes to diet-especially for clients who need specialised nutrition plans-I make sure to coordinate with someone who has proper nutritional knowledge. Collaborating with doctors and nutritionists ensures the client’s safety and helps me create a more effective and responsible training approach.
Is there any particular message you want to convey to young individuals who concentrate solely on their gym progress but avoid medical check-ups?
Typically, individuals in their late teens or early twenties seldom consider undergoing health examinations. Although it ultimately comes down to individual preference, I firmly advise that younger folks should also have routine medical checks. By beginning this practice sooner rather than later, they form a habit that might ward off more significant issues further down the line. Advancing physically at the gym is excellent, and such improvement can be attained through commitment—but this external development needs to align with an equal focus on inner well-being.
Has there been a time when you needed to adjust somebody’s workout routine due to a health condition?
Absolutely. I have experience working with clients who deal with various conditions such as sciatica, knee and back issues, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), asthma, low blood pressure, and anemia. When addressing these concerns, I adjust their exercise routines to focus on low to moderate intensity activities while steering clear of anything that might put undue stress on their bodies. Although I do not treat medical ailments myself, I make sure to thoroughly understand each client’s limits. Ultimately, my approach emphasizes safety, personalization, and sustainability in fitness programs.
I always make sure to understand my clients’ limitations and adjust the routine accordingly. Every individual requires a different approach, and when it comes to health, I believe safety and sustainability should always come first.
Health is unpredictable. Shrestha highlights that we might look physically strong, but hidden issues like cysts, tumours, and hormonal imbalances are becoming increasingly common, especially among young women. Fitness isn’t just about how you appear; it’s about your internal well-being. Diet, hormones, and stress all significantly affect overall health.
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