The Major Components of Physical Fitness
When determining the main components of physical fitness, it is important to focus on the elements that will aid in providing a means of measuring progress while seeking an enhanced level of physical health and wellness. Physical fitness has to do with achieving and maintaining a state in which the body is functioning in a manner that is efficient and in balance. To this end, there are five main components or measurements that can be used as indicators of the current level of fitness enjoyed by an individual. First among these essential components is the element of muscular strength. Measurement of this element has to do with the ability of the muscles to create resistance that results in the ability of the individual to lift, pull or push against an exterior force. This would apply to such activities as lifting weights, moving heavy objects, and even the ability to move the body up and down stairs with a reasonable amount of effort. As muscular strength is increased through repeated use of the muscle structures, the expectation is that there will be some degree of increase in the mass of the muscles. Along with working toward enhanced muscular strength, there is also the component of muscle endurance. The ability to perform a task that requires strength is important. However, the next step involves being able to engage in the task on a continual basis while maintaining the same level of resistance. As an example, muscle endurance can be measured by noting how long an individual can continue to walk at the same pace without having to stop for a rest. The goal of muscle endurance is to gradually increase the amount of time that an individual can participate in an activity without required a period of rest. The third element has to do with cardiovascular efficiency. While engaging in resistance activity, it is anticipated that the heart will need to work harder to maintain a proper supply of blood to the muscle structure of the body. The ability of the heart to provide this supply is enhanced by engaging in activities that incrementally strengthen the pumping ability of the organ, ensuring that additional exertion can be managed without throwing the heart into a crisis situation. Body composition represents a fourth element or component connected with a credible level of physical fitness. There are several factors that go into determining a healthy body composition. Such factors as the ratio of fat to muscle, bone mass, and the general condition of vital organs of the body all play a role in determining the current status of body composition. The goal is to achieve a level of balance in all these elements so that the various parts of the body are working in harmony, and not being overshadowed by functional difficulties with any one element. Flexibility is the last of the basic components of physical fitness. Essentially, the rate of flexible movement that is achieved with the joints of the body plays a central role in making sure that the muscles of the body can function without creating injuries that would disrupt the bone or muscle systems that make up the human body. Nimble joints mean that the body is functioning at a high level of fitness, and that the individual may enjoy a wide range of physical activities, with little or no soreness or muscle strain resulting.