According to a medical study, it was ascertained the "most appropriate measure of physical fitness for the average person is an assessment of the habitual physical activity level." While most people view the components of physically fitness in different ways, there are definitive benefits derived by certain forms. What is the meaning of physical fitness? Physical fitness encompasses the ability of the body to perform exercise at moderate to high levels of intensity. As fitness levels improve, the body functions more efficiently and the heart can better withstand the strains of everyday stress.

The most notable forms of physical fitness include strength training; power; agility; balance; flexibility; muscle endurance; cardiovascular endurance; strength endurance, and coordination. The benefits associated with regular aerobic exercise include: improving cardio function; reduction in coronary artery disease, and increasing one's quality of life. Increasing cardio and respiratory function allows for a variety of benefits, including bit not limited to: an increased ability of exercising muscles to consume oxygen; lowered resting and exercise heart rates; increased stamina; resistance to fatigue; more effective management of diabetes; reduced bone-mineral loss; decreased blood pressure; and increased efficiency of the heart.

Strong muscles are important for carrying out everyday tasks, such as carrying groceries, doing yard work, and climbing stairs. Muscular strength can help to keep the body in proper alignment, prevent back and leg pain, and provide support for good posture. Endurance is an important element for everyday life activities, and operates with muscular endurance to help maintain good posture and prevent back and leg pain. In addition, endurance can enhance performance during sporting events, as well as help an individual cope with everyday stress.

As people age, flexibility will allow the body to assume more natural positions to help maintain good posture. Stretching is therefore an important habit to start, as well as continue, as one ages. Fat-free mass is composed of muscle, bone, organs, and water, whereas fat is the underlying tissue. Excessive fat is a major cause of health problems because it is associated with cardiovascular disease, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure. Higher proportions of fat-free mass indicate an increase in muscle, and thus an increased ability to adapt to everyday stress.

The most effective way to participate in a well-rounded program is by following these methods of exercise implementation. Determining how many times a week one should exercise; how intense the workout should be; how long the workout is; and what variety to use. Utilizing this exercise program is based on an individual's fitness level when entering the exercise program, as well as the goal the individual sets. For example, an individual who wants to lose weight and likes to walk would be placed on a program of treadmill or outdoor walking; for thirty minutes a day; three to five times per week; and of light to moderate intensity.

Exercise is an important element, in combination with a diet regimen, to one's health. Physical fitness can be utilized in both exercise and diet, but also as part of one's lifestyle. What is the meaning of physical fitness? It is the combination all of these factors which help in acquiring a healthy, active and disease-free life.