Chapter 1-3 Key Vocabulary: Fitness, Injury Risk, and Body Temperature

A set of vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts from Chapter 1–3: factors affecting fitness (genetics and controllable vs uncontrollable factors), thermoregulation (hypo/hyperthermia and related conditions), and common injuries associated with different activities.

Genetics

Inherited characteristics that influence health and fitness; account for about 40–66% of factors affecting health and fitness.

Controllable factors

Factors that individuals can influence through daily habits and behaviors (e.g., activity level, nutrition, stress, environment).

Uncontrollable factors

Factors primarily outside personal control, especially genetics, that affect fitness potential.

Sedentary lifestyle

A pattern of very little physical activity; a major contributor to reduced fitness and health.

Daily physical activity

The amount and consistency of physical activity performed each day; influences overall fitness and independence in later life.

Education

Higher education levels correlate with lower risk of poor fitness and greater self-care knowledge.

Economic status

Income/wealth level linked to fitness outcomes and access to resources that support healthier choices.

Social influence on activity

Friends and family activity levels can positively or negatively affect an individual’s own activity.

Acclimation

The process of the body adjusting to a new exercise program or environmental conditions to reduce injury risk.

Hypothermia

Dangerously low body temperature that can impair neuromuscular control, cause frostbite, or be fatal.

Hyperthermia

Dangerously high body temperature that can lead to heat cramps, heat exhaustion, or heat stroke.

Hypoglycemia

dangerously low blood glucose levels; a major concern for individuals with diabetes.

Hyperglycemia

dangerously high blood glucose levels; a concern for individuals with diabetes.

Hyponatremia

Low plasma sodium level, often caused by excessive water intake during endurance activity.

Rhabdomyolysis (rhabdo)

Life-threatening muscle breakdown; higher risk in novices with low carbohydrate intake, dehydration, and intense training in heat.

Strains

Injury to muscles or tendons, involving tears or damage to muscle/tendon tissue.

Sprains

Injury to ligaments, involving tears or damage to ligament tissue.

Tendinitis

Inflammatory damage to tendons usually due to overuse or repetitive strain.

Shin splints

Pain along the lower legs from repetitive microtrauma and fascia/m tissue stress.

Plantar fasciitis

Sharp pain under the bottom of the foot due to fascial restriction and repetitive load.

Epicondylitis (tennis elbow)

Inflammation of the elbow tendons from repetitive, high-speed swinging motions.

Achilles tendinitis

Inflammation of the Achilles tendon often linked to repetitive stress and improper loading.