Fitness is the state of being healthy and well-balanced and, in particular, the capacity to do different parts of daily activities, jobs and sports. Physical fitness is normally achieved through regular exercise, proper nutrition and adequate rest. In order to achieve and maintain a good fitness level, one has to work out regularly and eat a well-balanced diet. A well-balanced diet can ensure that you are getting all essential nutrients and minerals for your body; vitamins, carbohydrates, protein, and fats, plus minerals and fiber.
Muscle fitness or muscular strength is mainly dependent on three factors: muscular endurance, hormonal balance and nutritional balance. Muscular endurance refers to the extent to which one can continue doing an activity at a standing start after the same period of time has elapsed; muscular strength, which refers to the degree to which an individual’s muscles can be pushed beyond the point of muscular fatigue; and hormonal balance, which refers to the extent to which different hormones produced and released within the body are balanced. These three factors, together, can determine your level of fitness.
A well-balanced diet contributes to healthy levels of physical fitness. It helps you keep your weight within a healthy range; reduces risks of diseases; and keeps you strong and flexible. An ideal diet should contain proteins, carbohydrates, and unsaturated fats, along with the right amount of calcium, vitamin D, iron, and zinc. Protein is considered the most important nutrient for building strong muscles, although it is not necessary to eat larger quantities of protein.
Regular physical exercise helps you burn calories and fats, which result in weight loss and increased muscular strength. Aerobic exercises, such as running and cycling, build endurance and help you lose weight. Resistance training, such as weightlifting, tones your muscles and builds strength. Weightlifting, however, is not the only essential element of a fitness program.
Exercise and a balanced diet can help you maintain good health but you must combine them with a sound diet. Good health should be achieved through a healthy lifestyle. Fitness means that all your organs are functioning properly. All organs of the body should be functioning properly if you want good health.
In addition to maintaining good health, fitness also contributes to a healthy mental state. Being fit and mentally sound makes you more able to cope with physical pain and injury. You will be better able to perform your daily duties as well as meet demands of your family, friends, and work colleagues. If you are having problems managing your weight or your cholesterol levels, you may also want to consider getting a nutritional assessment. By keeping a healthy weight and a healthy level of cholesterol, along with a good level of overall physical fitness, you can prevent serious health problems in the future.