The word fitness was first used in English in 1835, according to the Merriam Webster’s dictionary. “Fitness” is defined as a state of being able to do things efficiently. It is a synonym for well-being, as well as, health or being in good physical condition. Physical fitness refers to the capacity to do different types of physical work and is one component of wellness. The definition of fitness therefore implies health, complete well-being, and physical fitness. In order to be considered fit, one must adhere to a proper fitness program.
Fitness involves the combination of strength, flexibility, endurance, speed, and balance. Proper description of fitness therefore is the ability to do physical work with proper technique and with minimal effort and at maximum efficiency. Proper fitness is usually achieved through adequate rest, adequate nutrition, regular moderate-to vigorous exercise, and adequate muscle fibers.
Exercise plays an important role in maintaining health, but it is only one component of a healthy lifestyle. A well-balanced fitness program includes aerobic exercise (e.g., walking, bicycling, swimming, running, dancing), strength training (e.g., lifting weights), and flexibility training (e.g., stretching). Aerobic exercise increases your heart rate and improves your overall physical condition through exertion of the skeletal muscles and several cardiovascular tissues. Strength training exercises improve the functional strength of your muscles by using the largest number of muscles at the same time. Flexibility exercises improve your functional strength, while strength training develops the intrinsic strength of muscle fibers.
The relationship between diet and fitness has been studied over again. Numerous researchers have examined the effect of a wide range of dietary changes on physical fitness. Most reports indicate that a balanced diet is most important when it comes to promoting good health. Numerous scientific investigations have demonstrated the importance of exercise and diet when it comes to improving life performance (e.g., increased alertness, better mood, improved coping skills, and increased vitality). Although most people realize the positive benefits of a good diet, few people are aware of the role that a good diet can play in enhancing life performance.
A proper fitness routine includes a combination of exercise and flexibility training. A poor fitness routine includes little or no exercise or flexibility, but is accompanied by high levels of stress and tension. In order to promote good health and physical performance, your fitness regimen should include exercises that target various muscle groups, stretches, and cardiovascular activities. In addition, you should make time for relaxing, meditative practices, or simple hobbies like reading books or watching television.
All physical activities that you do are designed to promote efficient performance and enhance your chances of survival. However, certain aspects of each activity may actually have the opposite effect on your health. For example, prolonged sitting or exercise that reduces your muscle strength, increases reaction time, or causes pain are detrimental to your overall fitness. In contrast, short periods of stretching or light aerobic exercise can actually improve your health and help you avoid injury.