| Abstract: | This article focuses on the concept of positive health and,in particular, recognizes the importance of physical fitness. It is argued that measures of physical fitness are indicatorsof positive health and such measures are identified under theirdiscrete headings of agility, flexibility, power, speed andreaction time, strength, cardiovascular capacity, body compositionand posture. The theme of health-related fitness is explored, with recognitionof its increasing importance for health promotion in schools,the community and commerce. Evidence is presented that highlights the general acceptanceof the importance of certain fitness components in the assessmentof the positive health of populations. In addition, an alternativemethod of assessing fitness is discussed, arising from the authors'recognition of its potential as an inexpensive, easily administeredindicator of one aspect of positive health. The case for usingsubjective indicators of positive health is also presented–theargument being that subjective health could be a possible mediatorin the attainment of positive health. |
