physical fitness

The third essay assignment is to define an obscure or debatable term, concept or idea. I chose to define physical fitness. Sure, it seems like an easy topic--one that we are all pretty familiar with. After all, we strive to be "physically fit" and "in shape". What does this term actually mean? What is the cut-off for a physically fit person and one who is not? What are the determining factors? Is a physically fit person someone who can carry-out everyday functions without becoming fatigued, someone with a high lean body mass (low body fat), or a person who can run a few miles with no problem? Obviously, the standards for being considered "physically fit" can be quite controversial. In my essay, I will take into account multiple definitions of the term fitness. I will also discuss the components of fitness and the "guidelines" for becoming physically fit. I will be able to use some of my class instructors, exercise science magazine articles, the Internet, and exercise physiology textbooks as resources for my research. I am eager to get into my research, as this topic is both intriguing and relevant to my major.