5 Components of Physical Fitness

Developing your body for the 5 components of physical fitness is important for everyday life. Even simple tasks can create significant wear and tear on our bodies, like opening a window or car door, lifting a heavy suitcase, or gardening. We must make sure our bodies are physically fit to handle the stresses we endure.

Many people only focus on 1 or 2 of these components, which is good, yet they are weak in the other areas. Ignoring any component may decrease the range of tasks you can perform, and increase your chance of injury or illness.

The 5 components of Physical Fitness are different gears your body should be equipped with. Your fitness plan should be designed to encompass all the components of physical fitness:

Body Composition: This refers to the percentage of fat, bone, water, and muscle we have in our body. It is how we look; meaning you could have several people with the same height and weight, but have a different appearence.

Cardiovascular Endurance This is the body's ability to supply oxygen and blood to its muscles for long periods of time during physical activity. Of the main components of physical fitness, this may be the most important because of the focus it has on your heart and lungs. Building strength in the heart and lungs are vital to a bodies overall health.

Flexibility: This is the range of movement the muscles, tendons, and ligaments have during periods of physical activity or stretching. Proper flexibility is important for daily activity because you will be less susceptible to strains, tears, and other injuries.

Muscular Endurance: This is refers to the length of time your muscles can perform an activity or exercise without fatigue.

Muscular Strength: This is the maximum amount of weight your muscle(s) can lift in a single movement. Stronger muscles are important for increasing the amount of daily activities you can perform, improving posture and gait, and providing support to your bones and joints.