How Italians Stay Fit: The Secret Behind the Pizza, Pasta, and Gelato

When it comes to Italian cuisine, pizza and pasta are the first dishes that come to mind. So, how do Italians stay fit despite indulging in such delicious food? The answer lies in a well-balanced diet and an active lifestyle.

Many people believe that living in Rome means gaining weight, but in reality, it’s almost impossible to live in Rome and be overweight.

Rome: A City Full of History and Activity

Rome is not just an amazing city filled with rich history, parks, and breathtaking architecture; it also promotes an active lifestyle. One of the best ways to explore Rome is by walking. Thanks to living in the city center, my lifestyle is naturally active. I walk almost everywhere and go to the gym five days a week, which helps me stay fit and healthy. This active routine allows me to enjoy indulgences like gelato and pizza without guilt.

I am living in this wonderful city for over 12 years, and I continue to discover new restaurants and hidden gems while walking around.

Mild Weather Encourages an Active Lifestyle

Rome’s weather is generally mild, even during the winter months. This makes it perfect for jogging or walking year-round. It’s common to see locals jogging early in the morning or in the evening, a testament to the active nature of the city. Italians love good food, but they also make time to exercise regularly.

Fitness and Exercise in Rome

Many Romans enjoy weightlifting or attending yoga and Pilates classes. There’s a wide variety of dance classes, including tango and other forms of fitness activities. In fact, my nearly 90-year-old neighbor was attending a tango class regularly until the pandemic. When gyms and classes were shut down in 2020, the only thing she truly missed was her beloved tango lessons.

Eating Well Without Gaining Weight

It’s a common misconception that Italians gain weight from pasta. When made with fresh, healthy ingredients, pasta can even aid in weight loss. The Italian diet is simple, balanced, and focuses on fresh vegetables, small portions of pasta or rice, and lean meats like fish or chicken. Italians are known for using fresh ingredients, and one of the best things about Italian cuisine is its ability to create delicious and healthy meals with just a few ingredients.

The Italian Approach to Cooking and Eating

While I love exploring new restaurants, I’ve grown to appreciate homemade meals. When I first moved to Italy, I focused on cooking healthy dishes but wasn’t too interested in trying new recipes. My Italian friends, however, were very passionate about cooking and sharing recipes with each other. Over time, I’ve developed an interest in trying healthy recipes myself. Rome is full of local markets, making it easy to access fresh ingredients for any meal.

The Italian Breakfast: Balancing Calories and Nutrition

Italian breakfasts are often light, consisting of croissants (cornetto), biscuits, or bread with jam, accompanied by coffee. When I first moved to Rome, I thought their breakfast choices were high in calories. Curious, I asked my Italian friends how they stayed fit with such a breakfast. They explained that the key is balance—Italian breakfasts may be calorie-dense, but they are part of a well-balanced day of eating.

Lunch and Dinner in Italy: The Balanced Italian Diet

Italian lunches are typically lighter, while dinners tend to be more substantial. The combination of a balanced diet, portion control, and regular exercise helps Italians stay fit and healthy without sacrificing their love for food.

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