An Introduction to Physical Fitness

Physical fitness is a multidimensional state of being. It has been described in many different ways, which creates confusion about the specific meaning of this term. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC) defines physical fitness as - " The ability to carry out daily tasks with vigor and alertness, without undue fatigue, and with ample energy to enjoy leisure-time pursuits and respond to emergencies".

Physical fitness includes a number of components consisting of cardio-respiratory fitness/endurance, body composition, muscular strength, muscular endurance and flexibility. Based on my limited experience I would also like to specifically add core strength/fitness as an additional component of physical fitness. 

Physical fitness is also the body's ability to function effectively and efficiently. Possessing a moderate amount of each component of health-related fitness is essential for disease prevention and health promotion, but it is not essential to have exceptionally high levels of fitness to achieve health benefits. 

Additionally there are other components of physical fitness such as balance, agility, coordination, power, speed and reaction time. They are called as skill-related physical fitness, which are associated more with performance than good health. 

It is important to view physical fitness not as one but as an integration of all the components related to it. Hence it is beneficial to include all the components in one exercise routine to reach optimum general fitness.

Click here to shop on snapdeal.