Importance of Fitness

Physical fitness has become the new buzzword in the recent times, with everyone from celebrities to schoolchildren making it a point to stay in shape with regular exercise and proper diet. The definition of fitness actually varies from person to person. However, physical fitness basically refers to a condition of well being and health and, more importantly, the capacity to perform different parts of daily activities, even in the midst of considerable activity. Common physical fitness activities include walking, jogging, bicycling, climbing, swimming and resistance training.

While all these can be beneficial, it is important to remember that they are not the only keys to health and fitness. Proper nutrition is as important as physical exercises. Proper nutrition means eating a well balanced diet and getting adequate amounts of essential nutrients. These nutrients are essential for maintaining proper body weight and strength. A lack of nutrition leads to various disorders such as anorexia nervosa, obesity and diabetes. Aerobic exercise is also important for overall fitness.

Muscle power or muscular endurance as it is popularly known, depends on the capacity of the skeletal muscles to contract and to relax. The key benefits of a well balanced diet are that it helps the body to build new muscle and tissues, and it makes the body stronger and healthier. Aerobic exercises are the most efficient way of improving muscular endurance and conditioning. Aerobics help to burn energy and improve the metabolic rate; they are also useful in enhancing the immune system and in decreasing the risk of heart diseases and strokes. Resistance training enhances strength, improves muscular endurance and improves cardiovascular fitness.

The concept of fitness means a lot to a person’s mental well being. Fitness involves emotional well being too. A physically fit person tends to be a happier person as it boosts his or her morale. Also, a physically fit person tends to be more productive than a lethargic one. Also, being fit and staying fit can reduce stress levels and increase mental health.

Physical fitness means having a healthy body. It is not the only thing that will lead to happiness; lack of self-esteem and low confidence levels is also related to a physically fit body. Being physically active keeps your blood pressure at a reasonable level, reduces your cholesterol levels and keeps your weight at reasonable levels. The more active you are, the more likely you are to achieve your goals.

Aerobic exercise is very helpful to a fitness routine, whether it’s just to lose weight or improve your general health. You should plan an exercise regimen that fits your lifestyle. This could mean going for walk or bike rides every morning. You can also try other forms of exercise like swimming, jogging or running in place. Overall health is improved through a regular exercise routine.