1) STRENGTH
Strength is the ability of the muscles to overcome resistance. It is a major component of physical fitness. Strength can also be defined as the amount of force a muscle or a muscle group can exert. Strength of the body can be measured in pounds or dines. A certain level of strength is also essential for a common person, while for a sportsperson to have strength is of paramount importance. Some avocations or sports may require less amount of strength, while other avocations or sports require much more strength. In the same way, sports or avocations require different types of strength.
2) SPEED
Speed may be defined as the ability or capacity of an individual to perform a movement of the same pattern at a faster rate. In fact, speed is the ability to move the body as fast as possible, especially in running. However, different sport skills require different types of fast movements and quick reactions. Speed of movement is much more than just running speed; it includes the speed of body parts, such as the explosive strength of the shot-putter's body across the throwing circle or the speed of a gymnast's in-hand spring. Most of the sports require speed over short distances, such as running between the wickets in cricket. Speed depends on the type of muscle fibers. There are two types of muscle fibers-fast twitch and slow twitch. Fast twitch fibers are able to contract rapidly and produce maximum force, whereas slow twitch fibers contract slowly and produce less force. Therefore, fast twitch fibers fatigue quickly, whereas slow twitch fibers fatigue slowly. Now it can be decided easily whether an individual is suited to speed-related events, or for events which are related to endurance because the percentage of these fibers in an individual can be measured. Training can enhance speed by reducing the reaction time of the individual. Most probably, speed is used in every sport except endurance-related sports.
3) ENDURANCE
Endurance is another component of physical fitness, like speed and strength. It is the ability to sustain an activity. Herr also defines endurance as the ability to resist fatigue. In all sports, endurance is directly or indirectly of high importance. It is usually measured by the number of repetitions. For example, the number of sit-ups an individual can complete in one minute is often used to measure the endurance of the abdominal muscles. The type of endurance varies from sport to sport.
4) FLEXIBILITY
Flexibility is a necessary component for physical fitness. Flexibility is the range of movements of joints. An individual, who has proper flexibility, can perform his/her work very easily, Such people seem to be attractive. Usually, they tend to have good personality. Flexibility is not only a significant factor in sports, but also equally significant for an individual in his/her daily life. The range of movement varies significantly from joint to joint but depends on the structure of the surrounding tendons, ligaments and muscle tissues. Flexibility is related to genetic factors as well as physical activity programs. Usually, tight joints prevent smooth and efficient movements. Flexibility training prevents muscular injuries. Maintaining flexibility throughout the life, specially in back and leg muscles, may help in preventing back problems. Flexibility is helpful in learning various skills easily, such as back stroke in swimming.
5) COORDINATION ABILITIES
Before 1980, speed, strength, flexibility, endurance and agility were considered the main components of physical fitness, but after that the term agility changed into coordination abilities. The term agility was discontinued because it was not clearly defined and there was no unanimity in explaining its meaning So, nowadays, 'coordination abilities' is used in place of agility. Coordination abilities mainly depend on the central nervous system. The coordination abilities are those abilities of an individual which enable the individual to do various related activities properly as well as efficiently. Our accuracy, rhythm, flow and constancy depend on our coordination abilities. These abilities can be of various types such as balance ability, rhythm ability, adaptation ability and reaction ability. These types of abilities can be enhanced through general or specific exercises. Usually, the beautiful and graceful movements of our body are directly related to our coordination abilities. These types of abilities are very much helpful in gymnastics and diving Coordination abilities can be improved if we carry out correct movements. We should avoid incorrect movements while playing any game or sport. If we take the above-mentioned points into consideration, coordination abilities can be improved.
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