Question 1

What is the difference between health and fitness in GCSE PE?

Accepted Answer

Health is a state of complete physical, mental, and social well-being, not just the absence of disease. Fitness is the ability to meet the demands of the environment. You can be fit but unhealthy (e.g., an athlete with an injury or mental health issue) or healthy but not fit (e.g., someone with no illness but low stamina). In exams, always use the official definitions.

Question 2

What are the 11 components of fitness I need to know for OCR GCSE PE?

Accepted Answer

The 11 components are split into health-related (cardiovascular endurance, muscular endurance, muscular strength, flexibility, body composition) and skill-related (agility, balance, coordination, power, reaction time, speed). You need to define each and give a sport-specific example. For instance, 'A basketball player needs power to jump for a rebound.'

Question 3

How do I apply the principles of training (SPORT) to a training programme?

Accepted Answer

SPORT stands for Specificity (training must match the sport), Progression (gradually increase intensity), Overload (work harder than normal), Reversibility (fitness is lost if you stop), and Tedium (vary exercises to avoid boredom). For example, to improve a runner's 5K time, you could increase distance each week (progression) and include interval training (overload).

Question 4

What are the health risks of a sedentary lifestyle?

Accepted Answer

A sedentary lifestyle increases the risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes, coronary heart disease, high blood pressure, some cancers, and poor mental health (e.g., depression, anxiety). It also weakens bones and muscles, leading to osteoporosis and poor posture. Regular exercise reduces these risks and improves overall well-being.

Question 5

How does exercise improve mental health?

Accepted Answer

Exercise releases endorphins (feel-good hormones) that reduce stress and anxiety. It also improves self-esteem, provides a sense of achievement, and offers social interaction (e.g., team sports). Regular physical activity can help manage depression and improve sleep quality. In exams, mention both psychological (e.g., mood) and social (e.g., friendships) benefits.

Question 6

What is the FITT principle and how is it used?

Accepted Answer

FITT stands for Frequency (how often), Intensity (how hard), Time (how long), and Type (what kind of exercise). It's a way to apply the overload principle. For example, to improve cardiovascular fitness, you might increase frequency from 3 to 4 times per week, intensity by running faster, time from 20 to 30 minutes, or type by switching from jogging to cycling.

Health, fitness and well-being

Topic Overview

Key Concepts

What You Need to Demonstrate

Marking Points

Examiner Tips

Common Mistakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Before You Start

Likely Command Words

Ready to test yourself?

Related Topics in OCR GCSE Physical Education

Aerobic and anaerobic exercise

Applied anatomy and physiology

Applying the principles of training

Characteristics of skilful movement

How to Revise Health, fitness and well-being — OCR GCSE Physical Education

Examiner Tips for Health, fitness and well-being

Common Mistakes in Health, fitness and well-being

Key Marking Points