What is physical fitness? There are many ideas of what it is and how to obtain it. Physical fitness is the ability to complete tasks without undue fatigue. The main components of physical fitness are cardiorespiratory endurance, muscle strength, muscle endurance, flexibility and body composition. All of these are important to maintain a state of wellbeing and good health. A lack of physical fitness could result in heart disease, obesity and negative self-image.
First, cardiorespiratory endurance is the sum of the heart and lungs ability to absorb, transport, and use oxygen over an extended period of physical activity. A person's cardiovascular endurance is determined by genetics, physical conditioning and age. A person that is very fit can perform a higher intensity activity over a longer period of time, while using a lesser amount of oxygen than some one that is less fit. Moderate exercises to increase cardiovascular conditioning include swimming, walking, cycling and aerobics.
Secondly, muscle strength and muscle endurance are the two things that are necessary to move an object. Why would someone want to move an object? Well, without good muscle strength and muscle endurance, it would be difficult to open a bottle of soda or walk up a flight of stairs. Muscle strength is the ability to overcome a force of resistance in one effort. Strength is based on the ratio of body weight to the weight lifted or moved. Muscle endurance is the ability to move weight or resistance many times. The measure of muscle endurance is based on the number of time the weight is moved.
Thirdly, flexibility is the ability of the body to easily bend of twist without injury. Flexibility is important in everyday life to perform task easily. Age, gender and genetics all play a role in flexibility and range of motion. Flexibility can be improved by stretching before and after exercise. There are many sources, such as books, the internet and even apps for phones and tablets the provide examples of stretches for all muscle groups.
