,
ability of the human body to function with vigor and alertness, without undue
fatigue, and with ample energy to engage in leisure activities, and to meet
physical stresses. Muscular strength and endurance, cardiorespiratory
integrity, and general alertness are the overt signs of physical fitness.
Physical fitness is usually
measured in relation to functional expectations—that is, typically, by
periodic tests measuring strength, endurance, agility, coordination, and
flexibility. In addition, stress testing, which ascertains the body's
accommodation to powerful, sustained physical stimuli, is used to analyze
fitness. If individuals are able to accommodate to the stressors, they are
assumed to be fit.
The level of physical
fitness can be influenced by regular, systematic exercise. Moderate activity
will maintain the individual at a level that is usually adequate to handle
ordinary stress. If the fitness level is to be improved, however, it is
necessary to participate in more intensive exercise that overloads the
physiological systems and thus promotes change.
Exercises that demand total
body involvement improve and maintain fitness most effectively—for example,
jogging, running, swimming, vigorous dancing, cycling, and brisk walking.
Organized games and sports that have long rest periods within the play design
have only minimal influence on fitness. Programs especially planned to help
individuals attain fitness are offered in numerous places: schools and
gymnasiums, private clubs and studios, and special, professionally organized
clinics that are attentive to problems of cardiac and pulmonary function. The
individual must be careful in choosing an exercise program and should ensure
it is staffed by experts in physical education or medicine.
Normal, healthy individuals
may plan their own exercise programs. The general rule is to exercise only
until discomfort is experienced—that is, until breathing becomes labored,
circulation seems inadequate, or fatigue influences performance. People with
health problems caused by heart attacks, strokes, and illness should see a
physician before devising an exercise program.
Proper nutrition is
important to physical fitness, because energy expenditure depends on
nutrition. If diet is inadequate, the fitness level will drop. Overweight,
underweight, and weak individuals will have below average fitness levels.
In the United States, the
President's Council on Physical Fitness and Sports, established in 1956, is
the national fitness advocate. In addition, the American Alliance for Health,
Physical Education, Recreation and Dance sponsors programs, publications, and
tests to help people better understand their fitness needs.
Generally, longer periods of
exercise can reduce the risk of heart disease for the individual. Yet many
individuals and organizations promote fitness through extreme means. Such
programs should be approached with skepticism and caution. The attainment and
maintenance of physical fitness, coupled with nutritious diet and reasonable
rest patterns, require dedication to a long-term, systematic investment in an
active life.
Contributed By:
Celeste Ulrich
