Wikipedia- The online free encyclopedia ,defines Physical Fitness as:
"Physical fitness is a result of regular physical activity, proper diet and nutrition, and proper rest for physical recovery within the parameters allowed by the body".
It is a combination of qualities that enable us to be at our full potential in performing demanding physical activities.
It doesnt means only having a small waist, or have bulging muscles.Physical Fitness involves the performance of the vital organs of the body such as heart, lungs, and the muscles. Specifically, it takes into account our Cardio Vascular Endurance, Muscular Strength, Muscular Endurance, and Flexibility. Many sources also include mental and emotional health as an important part of overall fitness, since what we do with our body also affects what we can do with our mind.
"Fitness problems such as obesity and overweight have reached truly epidemic proportions. In the West and particularly in the U.S.A., only 26 percent of adults engage in vigorous leisure-time activity (which includes a sport or exercising three or more times per week)"- Wikipedia. Young and old should include regular physical activity into their everyday lives. This does not necessarily mean joining an expensive gym or following a a rigorous exercise or training regime. It is sufficient to choose activities that fit into your daily routine that increase your heart rate and breathing, or increase your strength and flexibility. Regular physical activity is important throughout life. Healthy lifestyle has more role to play than genetic factors in avoiding deterioration associated with aging.
Physical fitness is to the human body what fine tuning is to an engine. It enables us to perform up to our potential. Fitness can be described as a condition that helps us look, feel and do our best. More specifically, it is: "The ability to perform daily tasks vigorously and alertly, with energy left over for enjoying leisure-time activities and meeting emergency demands. It is the ability to, withstand stress, to carry on in circumstances where an unfit person could not continue, and is a major basis for good health and well-being.
It's important to remember that fitness is an individual quality that varies from person to person. Fitness is influenced by age, sex, heredity, personal habits, exercise and eating practices. You can't change the first three factors. However, it is within your power to change and improve the others as you need.