Fitness is an inclusive term that covers all the components of physical health that are required by the human body. When we refer to fitness we typically think of exercise, but it’s important to remember that fitness includes various components such as proper nutrition, healthy lifestyle choices, adequate sleep and rest, and regular participation in structured fitness activities. The best definition of fitness, therefore, is the total ability of the body to function properly in its environment. Fitness is a condition of wellness and health and, more specifically, a person’s ability to do normal aspects of physical activity, jobs and sports. Typical fitness requirements vary from person to person, but most healthy adults need to engage in moderate levels of physical activity on a daily basis to maintain good health.

Physical fitness means being able to move freely, absorb oxygen and nutrients, and move through spaces effectively and without restriction. Moving comfortably, quickly, with ease and with minimal pain is a necessary part of fitness. This ability also means being capable of sustained activity for a reasonable length of time. Proper nutrition is an important factor in achieving good health, and frequent physical activity helps maintain optimal nutrition.

Flexibility is another component of fitness. Joints and muscles remain flexible as they adapt to the movement. Proper flexibility not only reduces the chance of injury but can increase your body composition (bone density and muscle mass). Proper fitness also means that your joints, muscles and ligaments are operating at peak efficiency, allowing you to use your body in ways that are most efficient. Proper flexibility also means increased strength, especially when resistance is applied to the body or specific parts of the body.

Another component of physical fitness is stamina. Stamina is about overcoming challenges and maintaining endurance even under stress. Think back to times when you had trouble completing a particular task or had just given up trying to complete a physical fitness challenge. Chances are you probably can recall many moments when you were no longer able to perform at your best. In these situations it was not your will power that failed, it was physical fitness that failed you.

If you want to be successful at living an active lifestyle, you need to incorporate fitness into your daily routine. Whether you choose to join a gym, run a treadmill, lift weights, swim, dance or do yoga there is plenty that you can do to stay active and healthy. Staying active does not have to be difficult if you have the right tools. Using your imagination can help you create new and exciting ways to stay active, while incorporating physical fitness into your lifestyle.

Many individuals may view fitness in terms of a binary trait: either you are slim and attractive or you are not. Although this popularized meaning of trait fitness may be a bit simplistic, it does provide some people with a starting point. trait fitness can be influenced by genes and hormones, which mean the definition of the trait can change over time. People who are constantly being told they are fat or obese are going to have trouble changing their lifestyle because their genes and hormones are making it difficult for them to become slim and fit.