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🌍 healthshift Encyclopedia

Your A–Z Guide to Fitness & Nutrition

Easily find expert-backed explanations on workouts, nutrition, and wellness—all organized from A to Z. Tap a letter or use the search bar to explore key terms and concepts.

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A

Active Recovery

Low-intensity movement (e.g., walking, stretching) to aid muscle recovery after intense exercise.

Anaerobic Exercise

Short bursts of intense activity (e.g., sprinting, weightlifting) that don’t rely on oxygen for energy.

Antioxidants

Compounds that protect cells from damage caused by free radicals, found in foods like berries…

B

Basal Metabolic Rate (BMR)

The number of calories your body needs at rest to maintain basic functions.

BMI (Body Mass Index)

A measurement of body fat based on height and weight, though not always an accurate…

BMR (Basal Metabolic Rate)

The number of calories required to maintain basic bodily functions at rest.

Body Composition

The ratio of fat mass to lean mass (muscle, bone, water) in the body.

C

Caloric Deficit

Consuming fewer calories than the body burns, leading to weight loss.

Carbohydrates

A macronutrient that serves as the body's primary energy source.

Cardio (Cardiovascular Exercise)

Exercises like running, cycling, and swimming that improve heart and lung function.

Circuit Training

A workout format where multiple exercises are performed in succession with minimal rest.

Cluster Sets

Breaking up a set into smaller “mini-sets” with short rests between reps to maintain intensity…

Compound Exercises

Multi-joint movements that work multiple muscle groups (e.g., squats, deadlifts).

D

Deficit (Caloric)

Eating fewer calories than you burn to lose weight.

Deload Week

A planned reduction in training intensity or volume to allow recovery and prevent overtraining.

DOMS (Delayed Onset Muscle Soreness)

Muscle soreness that occurs 24–48 hours after exercise due to microtears in muscle fibres.

Drop Sets

A technique where you perform an exercise until failure, then immediately reduce the weight and…

Dynamic Stretching

Active movements that stretch muscles while increasing blood flow and flexibility.

E

Electrolytes

Minerals like sodium, potassium, and magnesium that help regulate hydration and muscle function.

Endorphins

Hormones released during exercise that help improve mood and reduce pain.

Energy Balance

The relationship between calories consumed and calories burned.

EPOC (Excess Post-Exercise Oxygen Consumption)

The extra oxygen your body consumes after exercise, leading to continued calorie burn.

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