What does endurance measure in relation to physical fitness?

Endurance is a fundamental component of physical fitness that specifically measures the duration the body can withstand physical demands. This reflects how well the cardiovascular and muscular systems perform over an extended period. It is crucial in various activities, whether it's running a marathon, participating in sports, or completing a physically demanding job.

The progression in endurance training allows individuals to improve their stamina, which can lead to increased performance in both daily activities and more rigorous physical tasks. It typically encompasses both aerobic endurance, which relates to sustained activities that require oxygen, and muscular endurance, which pertains to the ability of muscles to perform repeated contractions over time. Understanding endurance in this context emphasizes its significance in improving overall fitness and performance.