The Importance Of Physical Fitness And Exercise

Introduction

“Exercise and recreation are as necessary as reading; I will say, rather, more necessary because health is worth more than learning” -Thomas Jefferson

Physical fitness is defined as the ability to meet life’s daily demands, without undue fatigue, while maintaining sufficient energy for leisure time pursuits and to overcome emergency situations that may arise personally and professionally (Smith and Tooker,….).

Today, the importance of physical fitness is recognized as an essential component to a healthy, active lifestyle and should be a priority in most people’s lives. It should not be surprising that physical fitness and exercise improve long term health. It has been proven that the rewards of exercising, strength training and cardiovascular exercise can improve the quality of a person’s life in many ways. Living a long, healthy lifestyle without disease and obesity should be a goal for everyone. When fit, both physically and mentally, a person is more confident, alert and aware when physically fit. Being physically fit and continued exercise has a direct impact on job performance and reduces daily stress.

However, in general, most Americans are overweight. In fact, the United States has the highest obesity rate in the world with over 30% of Americans are considered obese. Add to that that less than 15% of Americans exercise on a regular basis. Studies have shown that sedentary people have twice the risk of coronary artery disease than active people. The life-style of the American public has become more sedentary and has been identified as a major contributor to the 10 leading causes of death (Harris…). The health habits associated with this sedentary life-style have been shown to be related to diseases su...

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...majority of veterans from various branches of the US Military recognize the importance of physical fitness not only for job performance but also a long healthy lifestyle. In discussing the assigned EDI project with SFPD Chief Riffel it was recommended I research and recommend an entry level physical fitness exam for applicants along with an annual physical fitness test for all sworn department officers. Currently, The State of Wisconsin Department of Justice does not govern nor recommend a physical fitness standard for law enforcement.

For my research project, I will research the cost of implementing an entry level physical fitness examination for applicants and maintaining a program for sworn officers of the Sheboygan Falls Police Department. Additionally, I will present a physical fitness program that has been scientifically validated and legally defensible.