Components of physical fitness

In the previous post An Introduction to Physical Fitness I had mentioned about the components of fitness. Now let us have a brief look at each of the component. 

1. Body composition:

The body composition test results provide a relative percentage of body weight i.e fat vs fat free body mass(FFM). FFM is the body mass other than all forms of stored body fat, consisting mainly of muscles, bones, organs, water etc. The most common health-related measure is that of total body fat percentage. Maintaining appropriate body composition is vital in preventing the onset of lifestyle disorders and associated risks.

2. Cardio-respiratory fitness: 

                  Also known as aerobic fitness, cardiovascular fitness, cardio respiratory endurance, it is perhaps the most important aspect of any fitness program. It refers to the ability of the circulatory and respiratory systems to supply oxygen during sustained physical activity.  Cardio respiratory fitness is the ability to perform dynamic, moderate to high-intensity exercise for prolonged periods. This is also very important to health and wellness and also to engage in normal activities of daily living without causing excessive fatigue.

3. Muscular strength :

The ability of the muscles to exert an external force to lift a heavy weight. It is important for maintaining functional health and to reduce the possibilities of musculo-skeletal problems/degenerative conditions.

4. Muscular endurance:

The ability of a muscle group to execute repeated contractions over a period of time sufficient

to cause muscular fatigue for a prolonged period of time.

5. Flexibility:

It is the ability to move a joint through its complete range of movement.

Flexibility is affected by muscle length, joint structure and other factors. 

 There are various assessments to determine each of these aspects in an individual. So incorporate all the components of physical fitness into your training program.