How did we get to this point?
Human society will forever be made of up different shapes, sizes, colours and creeds but are those of us unnecessarily putting on the pounds, quite literally, tipping this balance?
Consequences of weight complacency can be far-reaching - increased risk of strokes, heart attacks and diabetes which all contribute to a shortened life expectancy.
It serves as a sad and concerning reality check.
I grew up in a time of bullrush, backyard cricket and roller skating. McDonald's was a special treat I only went to for a friend's birthday party, and as a schoolkid, I walked or biked to school. Call me nostalgic but I feel modern society and technology has a lot to answer for.
Most children I encounter these days seem to spend more time exercising their phones or tablets rather than their bodies. And we're no better. With the swipe of a finger on a single device, a person can organise a date, order dinner delivery, email, read a book, buy the week's groceries, complete work tasks. The list goes on.
In a time-poor world where many are working longer hours to afford to live, we're grabbing what easy fix we can – be that McDonald's for dinner or a pie at our desk for lunch.
We need to change such habits and get out more. Yet, the excuses for putting off activity can come thick, fast and far too easy.
I've experienced my own internal debates of putting off a lunchtime walk in order to meet deadline, or opting to drive to work rather than bike because it's too cold outside.
Keeping active is one of the most important things a person can do, not only does fitness benefit the body by keeping it strong and in shape, it aids mental health too. For some, it also offers spiritual balance.
We all need to be more vigilant in our own health and prioritise fitness. Our lives depend on it.
After all, if you don't use it, you'll lose it.
