Physical Fitness
5 Components of Physical Fitness
Muscular Strength
This is the "power" that helps you to lift and carry heavy objects. Without muscular strength, your body would be weak and unable to keep up with the demands placed upon it. Resistance training a few times a week helps improve and maintain muscular strength. |
Muscular Endurance
Endurance is the ability of your muscles to perform contractions for extended periods of time. Rather than just lifting or carrying something for a few seconds, the muscles are used for minutes. Working with lighter weight and higher reps will train the muscle fibres needed for muscular endurance. |
Cardiovascular Endurance
Cardiovascular endurance is your body's ability to keep up with exercise like running, jogging, swimming, cycling, and anything that forces your cardiovascular system (lungs, heart, blood vessels) to work for extended periods of time. Together, the heart and lungs fuel your body's muscles with the oxygen needed for the work they are doing. |
Flexibility
Flexibility is one of the most important, yet often overlooked, components of physical fitness. Without flexibility, the muscles and joints would grow stiff and movement would be limited. Flexibility training ensures that your body can move through its entire range of motion without pain or stiffness. |
Body Composition
Body Composition refers to the percentage of fat, bone, and muscle in your body. Maintaining a healthy weight and body composition reduces the risk of health problems and may improve emotional and social health. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. (2018). Health Risks of Overweight & Obesity. National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases. Retrieved January 19, 2022, from https://www.niddk.nih.gov/health-information/weight-management/adult-overweight-obesity/health-risks |