Why Is Health-Related Fitness Important?

Physical fitness is important as it helps control weight, prevents diseases and illness, improves mood, boosts energy and promotes better sleep. Health and fitness are directly related, and the benefits of physical activity to a person’s overall health are numerous.

Physical fitness has been proven to improve mental, emotional, social and physical health. Physical activity burns calories, which aids in the loss of unhealthy weight. Large amounts of time for intense workouts are not necessary. Simply becoming more active throughout the day makes a difference. For example, take the stairs instead of the elevator, or park further away from the grocery store.

Heart disease is the biggest killer in the United States. Physical activity boosts good cholesterol and decreases unhealthy triglycerides. This encourages healthy blood flow and decreases the risk for cardiovascular disease. Physical fitness can also decrease the risk of stroke, diabetes, depression, cancer and arthritis. Physical activity also stimulates brain chemicals, resulting in a happy, relaxed feeling. It can also boost endurance and deliver oxygen and nutrients to tissues to promote a healthier cardiovascular system. People with efficient heart and lungs have increased energy throughout the day. Physical activity has also helps to promote better and deeper sleep.

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