Physical fitness is generally achieved through exercise and is considered a measure of the body's ability to function efficiently and effectively in work and leisure activities, to be healthy, to resist hypokinetic diseases, and to meet emergency situations.

This new and important book gathers the latest research from around the globe in the study of physical fitness with a focus on such topics as promoting physical fitness and sports for individuals with developmental disabilities; the effects of chronic low back pain on physical fitness; using mental tricks to enhance physical fitness and the unique issues of physical activity during pregnancy.

Table of Contents:

• Active versus Passive Recovery: Metabolic Limitations and Performance Outcome, pp. 1-43
• Promoting Physical Fitness, Exercise Training and Sport for Individuals with Mental Retardation, pp. 45-66
• Low Cost Physical Fitness Programs Across the Lifespan of Individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disability: Improving Cardio-Vascular Fitness, Functional Ability and Muscle Strength and Reducing Infirmary Visitation, pp. 67-90
• Effects of Chronic Low Back Pain on Physical Fitness, pp. 91-100
• Using Mental Tricks to Enhance Physical Fitness, pp. 101-106
• Can Active Video Games improve physical fitness in children and adolescents? pp. 107-120
• Staying Fit during and after Pregnancy, pp. 121-141
• The Health Benefits of Aerobic Activity and Physical Fitness in Young People, pp. 143-167