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What are the five components of fitness?

Brian Sutton , NASM Expert
Brian Sutton , NASM Expert on behalf of National Academy of Sports Medicine
Sports Medicine
answer
Fitness includes five essential components, flexibility, cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular endurance, muscular strength, and body composition. These five components are vitally important to health and wellness as well as to the ability to engage in normal activities of daily living (ADLs) such as performing chores or taking care of loved ones. Your exercise training programs should be designed with the intent of improving each of the five components of fitness. This will help ensure optimal health and performance in addition to preventing chronic disease (e.g. heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis etc.).
National Academy of Sports Medicine
National Academy of Sports Medicine
answer
The five components of fitness are cardiovascular fitness, muscular strength, muscular endurance, flexibility, and body composition.  These are the five areas that you want to take into consideration when considering your level of fitness, and designing a well rounded program.

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Important: This content reflects information from various individuals and organizations and may offer alternative or opposing points of view. It should not be used for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. As always, you should consult with your healthcare provider about your specific health needs.