Physical fitness refers to a condition of health and well being and, more importantly, the capacity to carry out various physical activities, tasks and sports without breaking down. Physical fitness involves an evaluation of our bodies and how they function, as well as an evaluation of our current lifestyle, which can affect or enhance our physical fitness. Physical fitness has been defined as the capacity to undertake vigorous or strenuous physical activity without injury or damage. It is necessary for individuals, couples, children, adults, athletes, or persons who may have disabilities to live a healthy, functional and quality life. Practitioners consider the condition of fitness as a major indicator of the state of their mental, emotional and physical health.
A fitness routine involves an assessment of one’s current health, as well as an evaluation of his future health. It involves an evaluation of ones current activity level, the types of activities for which one is interested, the level of skill required for those activities, time and place for carrying out those activities, equipment required and any precautions that need to be taken, and the expected outcome after the exercise or activity. One should also be guided by a personal trainer or a physiotherapist, if needed. A fitness routine should include periodic assessment of one’s fitness level and it should be customized to meet specific needs. Generally, fitness routines consist of three elements: cardio-vascular exercises, muscle-strengthening exercises and stretching.
The purpose of fitness routines is to promote efficiency, increase performance and reduce injuries, while reducing the risk of disability. A well-rounded fitness routine includes a balanced combination of the three components, although sometimes only one or two components are used. Some examples of components of a balanced fitness routine include cardiovascular exercises, flexibility training, strengthening, and aerobic training. In general, each of these components assists in promoting physical fitness.
Cardiovascular exercises are those that improve blood circulation and improve one’s overall physical fitness. This is typically done through activities like running, cycling, swimming, or other cardiovascular activities. Aerobic exercises, on the other hand, are used to improve the pumping action of the heart and lungs and are good for increasing endurance. These activities increase oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide removal from the body and therefore improve aerobic capacity and physical fitness. Stretching is an important component of a fitness routine since it improves range of motion and flexibility as well.
To tailor a fitness routine according to one’s individual needs and preferences, it is recommended to talk to a professional fitness instructor or a physiotherapist. These people can help individuals determine which types of activities they find enjoyable, which ones are safe, and which exercise programs are best tailored for their health needs. Certain activities, such as weight training, may not be appropriate for some individuals. A fitness instructor can also give advice as to the types of equipment, such as exercise balls and resistance bands, that are best for different activities, and how one can use them safely.
There is no single best fitness routine. Different people have various levels of fitness. Therefore, one’s fitness routine should be determined by its own level of fitness. A fitness trainer can help determine this by conducting a fitness test and incorporating modifications to an individual’s current fitness routine. The most effective fitness programs are those that incorporate all of a person’s core muscles.