The Evolving Definition of Physical Fitness

Abstract

Traditional defintions of physical fitness have employed language that, when operationalized, encompasses a broad range of functional capacities. However, these definitions have not referred directly to the health outcomes of physical activity. The current body of knowledge in exercise science and society's view of physical fitness indicate that a definition of physical fitness should focus on the health related aspects of fitness. It is proposed that the physical education profession's primary concern should be for promotion of health related physical fitness, defined as a state characterized by (a) an ability to perform daily activities with vigor, and (b) demonstration of traits and capacities that are associated with low risk of premature development of the hypokinetic diseases (i.e., those associated with physical inactivity). In addition, physical fitness and motor performance are terms that may have utility for professional physical educators, if consensus can be built around precise literal and operational definitions.