SUSTAINING OPTIMAL HEALTH AND DISEASE CONTROL THROUGH FITNESS ACTIVITIES

Abstract

Developing and sustaining optimal health is a problem confronting people of all ages in Nigeria. Scientific researches have shown that increased technology and mechanization in all spheres of human existence, has resulted in increased sedentary lifestyle. People have little or no time to engage in physical activities of moderate or vigorous types channelled towards development of total fitness,  which is critically important for the health and well being of people of all ages. Consequences of these sedentary lifestyle is degenerative changes which weakens the body making it prey to chronic diseases and conditions including heart disease, stroke, colon cancer, diabetes, obesity, and osteoporosis. Research studies have shown that regular physical activity has beneficial effects on most organs of the body, and consequently helps to prevent a broad range of health problems and diseases in people of all ages. This paper discussed concept of fitness, health, disease, and physical activity; components of total fitness. The paper recommends that government and non governmental organizations should create awareness through seminars and work shops both of rural and urban areas on benefits of fitness activities.