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The 5 Basic Components of Physical Fitness are used to measure a person’s fitness levels as well as develop physical fitness programs to establish healthy exercise routines and habits. These components are often used in schools and fitness centers to help test and determine how physically fit a person is. Understanding the 5 Basic Components of Physical Fitness can help you see the importance of working out regularly as well as what the objective of your workouts should be. If you decide to undergo physical fitness testing, it may help you identify which of the best exercises to lose weight quickly are best for you as well as identify other areas where your physical fitness needs to be improved.
Here is a brief explanation of the 5 Basic Components of Physical Fitness according to the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention)
Cardiorespiratory Endurance: The word cardiorespiratory, as the part of the word “cardio” and “respiratory” suggest involves your heart and your lungs. Basically Cardiorespiratory endurance is about how well your body delivers the oxygen needed for physical activity. Aerobic activity is often referred to as “cardio” exercise. Aerobic exercise can help many people lose weight quickly, as well as strengthen their heart and lung performance.
Muscle Strength: Muscle strength, as it sounds, is the amount of strength a muscle has when being used. Muscle strength is what makes it possible to lift a heavy object or do a push up. Muscle strength can be improved by weight lifting, but must be done properly in order to ensure that injury does not happen.
Muscle Endurance: Very important to muscle strength is muscle endurance. Muscle endurance is the ability for one to use their muscle strength and repeat the use of the muscle for an extended period of time without losing muscle strength. Being able to exercise without losing muscle strength shows that the muscles are healthy and functioning properly.
Flexibility: Flexibility is being able to move joints easily and in their entire scope of movement. Healthy joints and exercising regularly can help you improve your flexibility. Stretching when working out can help improve flexibility and reduce the risk of injury when exercising.
Body Composition: Body composition is the last of the basic components of physical fitness and is often commonly known as BMI, or Body Mass Index. In short, Body composition is the amount of body fat a person has compared to their total weight. It is relatively easy to calculate your bmi. The better your physical fitness is, the less amount of body fat you have compared to the rest of your weight. A higher body composition may indicate an increased risk for weight related health problems.
If you decide to undergo physical fitness testing, you may be asked to do a running test, a push up test, a sit up test, a sit and reach test, and also your body composition will be measured. Learning about these 5 basic components of physical fitness can help you improve your overall fitness and ability and get the most of your workout routine while minimizing the risk of injury. Speaking to a personal trainer or fitness expert can give you further insight in understanding the components of physical fitness.
