The Contribution Physical Activity Makes to Health and Fitness
Contribution of Physical Activity to Health
- Physical activity can reduce the risk of developing health conditions like heart disease and type 2 diabetes.
- Regular physical activity can help maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of obesity.
- It can help achieve a healthier composition of body mass - more muscle, less fat.
- It can improve bone health, reducing the risk of conditions like osteoporosis or fractures.
- Physical activity can boost the immune system, helping to protect against diseases.
- It can also benefit mental health, reducing the risk of conditions like depression and anxiety, and supporting increased levels of self-esteem and confidence.
Contribution of Physical Activity to Fitness
- Regular physical activity can enhance cardiovascular fitness, improving heart and lung function.
- It can contribute to muscular strength and endurance.
- It can help develop flexibility and range of motion, important for joint health.
- Regular participation in activity can improve coordination and balance, reducing the risk of injuries.
- It can contribute to performance improvements in specific activities or sports.
- Physical activity aids in skill development, enhance agility and speed.
Interconnection of Health and Fitness
- Health and fitness are interrelated: improvements in one often lead to improvements in the other.
- Healthier individuals tend to be more physically active, while those with higher levels of fitness generally have a lower risk of developing health conditions.
- Optimal health and fitness can be achieved through a balanced approach - being regularly active in a way that covers cardiovascular exercise, strength and flexibility training, and maintaining a healthy diet.
The Mental Aspect of Physical Activity
- Physical activity can improve overall mood and reduce stress levels.
- Participating in sports or other activities can provide social benefits and promote feelings of inclusivity, belonging, or teamwork.
- Developing skills through physical activity can engender self-efficacy (belief in one's ability to succeed in specific situations).
- Challenging oneself through physical activity can instil a sense of accomplishment and boost self-esteem.
- Regular physical activity can promote healthier sleep patterns, which can in turn improve mental health, mood, and cognitive function.
Remember that while all these points are true on average throughout the population, individual experiences and benefits can vary.