Hinsdale Central School

Even though the definition of physical fitness can vary, there's near unanimous agreement on the 5 components of physical fitness. Here's an overview of each of the components:

1. Cardiovascular Fitness - Cardiovascular fitness (also known as cardiorespiratory fitness) is the ability of the heart, lungs and vascular system to deliver oxygen-rich blood to working muscles during sustained physical activity.

2. Muscular Strength - Muscular strength is the amount of force a muscle or muscle group can exert against a heavy resistance.

3. Muscular Endurance - Muscular endurance is the ability of a muscle or muscle group to repeat a movement many times or to hold a particular position for an extended period of time.

4. Flexibility - Flexibility is the degree to which an individual muscle will lengthen.

5. Body Composition - Body composition is the amount of fat in the body compared to the amount of lean mass (muscle, bones etc.).

Now that you know what the 5 components of physical fitness are, you'll be better able to develop an effective fitness program.