Many times we propose to play sports to improve our health or our body. We think that to do it, you just have to get up, put on your sneakers and we are ready to exercise. However, it is important to take into account certain factors before starting, especially if it requires a certain intensity or if we want to achieve goals. Therefore, today we are going to focus on physical condition vs physical conditioning , since it is advisable to know both aspects before starting.
It is possible that, on occasion, you have heard of these concepts. Sometimes doubts arise about them and their functions are not well known. Do you know the difference between physical condition vs physical conditioning? Don't worry, throughout this article we expose the characteristics and advantages of both:
Physical condition vs physical conditioning
Physical condition
When we speak of physical condition we refer to the state or situation in which an individual finds himself in relation to his body . It is the ability that a person has to perform routine physical activities or those that require greater demand.
Physical condition is made up of different basic abilities :
- Endurance : ability to sustain prolonged activity
- Speed : ability to carry out movements in the shortest possible time
- Flexibility : range of amplitude and ease with which movements are performed
- Strength : level of opposition to overcome a resistance
There are two types of fitness. The first refers to the general condition that is responsible for measuring the level of efficiency necessary to function in daily routines. The second refers to a specific physical condition to perform a sporting activity. In this case, it is essential to have a good general physical condition.
People who are in good physical condition are trained to carry out activities with vigor and effectiveness, obtaining better results with a small expenditure of energy and with less probability of suffering injuries. However, people who have a poor physical condition feel more tired, experience a deterioration in effectiveness and in their capacity.
To be in good physical condition it is important to pay attention to different aspects such as avoiding excess weight , having a healthy diet , having a good rest and exercising regularly.
Assessment of physical condition
The physical condition can be evaluated through tests or tests such as, for example, the Cooper test or the Mile test. It is advisable to carry out the evaluation at three different times because this allows us to obtain objective data on the results and evolution. The best time to do a fitness assessment is:
- At the beginning of the activity: it allows us to obtain the starting point of the body. Data such as possible risk factors, lifestyle, etc. are analyzed.
- During the process: the state of physical condition is controlled, if the objectives are being achieved, evolution, etc.
- At the end: at this point it is analyzed if the objectives have been achieved and if the physical condition has improved.
Fitness vs fitness
To know what is physical condition vs physical conditioning, now we are going to focus on this second aspect. This concept refers to the development of the physical capacities of the person to maintain a healthy and strong body. Physical conditioning is one that allows the individual's abilities to be enhanced through the performance of different activities, exercises or training.
Performing physical conditioning maintains optimal levels of mental and physical well-being, as well as improving performance. We can find several advantages related to this concept. Among them, we find that good physical conditioning:
- Reduces blood pressure levels
- Lowers the risk of premature death
- Lowers high cholesterol and the risk of developing it
- Limits the risk of diabetes
- Decreases the chance of developing some types of cancer
- Reduces the likelihood of heart disease
- Maintains or decreases body weight with a lower fat index
- Reduces levels of depression and anxiety
- Results in healthy bones, joints and muscles
To carry out physical conditioning workouts, moderate and intense exercises should be included that allow exercising the previously mentioned skills . It is good to carry out the process gradually , adjusting the level to our current physical condition. Later, we can modify the intensity as we reach objectives.
We cannot forget to include a prior warm-up to prepare the muscles properly and reduce the risk of injury.
On a large scale, there are a few guidelines for good physical conditioning:
- Get more physical activity . We can freely choose the activity that we like and enjoy the most, but it is important that it requires burning energy.
- Practice a sport that requires social interaction, so we will be more motivated to do it.
- Develop an exercise structure that allows us to practice it regularly.
