The Components of Fitness

So everyone knows that fitness is a huge revolution today. Everyone is getting into it and that is great.

The problem is everyone has their own idea of what fitness is. I am not against the thought that some might just be inclined to different programs or ways of getting there. However if they don't know where they are heading then what is the point?

See there could be a lot of routes to get to where you want to go but if you don't even know where you want to go then how are you going to know when you reach?

So I strongly urge you to rethink this question - What does being fit mean to you? Remember, just like everything else there are certain laws and principles that cannot be violated. However, how you fulfil those laws and principles is up to you. The fitness components do not mean the latest workout program, the latest workout clothes, and fads or even what you thought or whats been handed down from your generations.Those might help (though in my opinion it does not) but it is not the way you track your fitness. Just because you do a zumba class or lift weights does not guarantee you are fit. Why? You can zumba all you want but if you are stressed out and not eating healthy you can be sure zumba is not helping. You can lift weights 6 days a week, scream and contort your face and finally get that benchpress up but if you lift wrong and end up with a strained shoulder joined that is a messed up fitness level.

I did an article called what is fitness. I suggest you read it here.

I am going to cover the components of fitness from a holistic and well rounded level. If you are to be fit you have to check these areas

1. Positive Attitude
2. Mental Health
3. Strength
4. Cardio Vascular Health and Conditioning/ Speed
5. Body Fat Composition
6. Flexibility and Mobility
7. Balance
8. Agility
9. Muscular Endurance
10. Nutrition

Now these will vary at different ages of a persons life and geographical and environmental regions. All of these can be developed and increased. You could be better in one than in another but that just means there is room to improve.  

I have purposely included mental health and positive attitude as I definitely look at fitness from a holistic level. Why? Have you ever noticed how when something was worrying you you would feel weaker? If you don't have a Hope and are not mentally tough that seems to sap your strength and energy although you might be doing a 200kg deadlift or able to run a 4 minute mile. 

At the same time you can be one of the mentally toughest people and smartest but if you dont have the physical strength to carry it out its of no use.

Stack up your components of fitness and see if you are developing all of them. If not, you can be sure your fitness levels need to be rechecked and worked on.

In the next post we are going to cover how you get your fitness levels measured.

If you have an opinion or question please feel free to leave it in the comment box below.