What is Fitness?

According to the United States Department of Health and Human Services, physical fitness is defined as "a set of attributes that people have or achieve that relates to the ability to perform physical activity."1So what exactly does it mean to be fit? According to American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), it means “to substantially improve one’s health and quality of life by including moderate amounts of physical activity in their daily lives.”1 Physical fitness does not involve vigorous activities; however, those activities will improve one’s performance greatly.

History of Fitness

“In July 1994, the Office of the Surgeon General authorized the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to serve as lead agency for preparing the first Surgeon General’s report on physical activity and health.”2 By the late 1970’s, the American Heart Association (AHA) and the ACSM designed programs that outlined the beneficial effects and factors of physical exercise on the body and how much exercise affects the body and mind.1 Now, in 2016, there are many variations and opinions on how to define fitness and exactly what it means to be fit. There are many exercise programs structured for various people and fitness levels. Whether if it is walking a dog daily for at least 30 minutes or playing a game of basketball, both are considered physical activity; and each individual is receiving the recommended amount that would be most beneficial to them.

So Why Is It Important and How Long To Exercise??

There are many health benefits to physical exercise. One will see an improvement in their sleep, cognitive function and mental awareness, a decrease in anxiety and stress, a decrease in blood pressure, a decrease in the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and stroke, and many more benefits. In order to maintain physical fitness and a healthy lifestyle, The Department of Health and Human Services suggests that an individual should include physical activity within their daily schedule for at least 30 minutes or more of at least moderate intensity.

Continuing Education

Personal Training is an important aspect within the fitness world. A personal trainer is a “fitness professional that provides guidance to help clients achieve their personal, health, fitness, and performance goals via the implementation of exercise programs, nutritional recommendations, and suggestions in lifestyle modification.”2 In order to become a personal trainer, one must become certified, however, laws vary state to state; therefore, it is important to look up state regulations prior to practicing. The certification required for personal trainers is a Certified Personal Training (CPT) License.

References

1 The President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports. "Physical Activity and Health." A Report of the Surgeon General Executive Summary (1994): 1-18. Print.

2 Position Stand of the American College of Sports Medicine. Michael Pollock - Victor Froelicher. Journal of Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation (1990).

(2016). Fitness - Workouts, Exercises, Lose Belly fat, Cardio, Yoga. Retrieved September 22, 2016, from http://fitnesspowerup.com/index.php/2016/06/27/fitness.

6 Fitness Trends for 2015 That Have the Experts Buzzing. (2015, January 13). Retrieved September 16, 2016, from http://www.huffingtonpost.com/burnthis/6-fitness-trends-for-2015_b_6148676.html