Fitness is a term describing the body’s ability to utilize oxygen relative to a person’s body size and composition. Fitness levels are affected by the body’s cardiorespiratory (heart and lungs) system, the musculoskeletal (muscles and bones) system and also by our psychological drive. Low fitness levels can be associated with a malfunction in one or more of these systems.
Low fitness levels are associated with cardiovascular disease (one of the main causes of health issues), including high blood pressure, high heart rate and a high body max index (BMI).
Recent research identifies that there is a strong relationship between increased fitness levels and decreased risk of long term cardiovascular disease and mortality. Improved fitness levels decrease cardiovascular risk factors, improve immune function, decrease musculoskeletal injuries, improve nervous system function and decreases the risk of Type II diabetes. Improved fitness levels are also associated with many psychological benefits including; improved confidence and self-esteem, decreased risk of anxiety and depression, improved cognitive function, memory and brain function.
So how do I improve my fitness? Through physical activity! Currently, the guidelines for physical activity from the Department of Health in Australia state the following;
– Be active on most, preferably all, days every week.
– Accumulate 2 ½ to 5 hours of moderate intensity physical activity or 1 ¼ to 2 ½ hours of vigorous intensity physical activity, or an equivalent combination of both moderate and vigorous activities, each week.
– Do muscle strengthening activities on at least 2 days each week.
You can do this via any means! Find a type of exercise that you enjoy such as swimming, riding a bike, going to the gym or jogging. To help motivate you, grab a friend or acquire a health professional to help guide you in the right direction.
If you have any more questions or are interested in a program to improve your fitness levels, please give us a call!
Happy training and stay healthy,
Kate Luckin
For more blog posts from Kate, check out her website – http://www.klphysiohealthfitness.com
