Physical functional capacity

Physical functional capacity refers to the body’s ability to perform tasks that require physical effort and to meet the demands placed upon it. It is expressed as the ability to move independently, participate in activities, and manage daily tasks. It has a decisive impact on daily functioning, wellbeing, and health. The components of physical functional capacity include endurance, strength, motor skills and flexibility.

The importance of physical functional capacity for a pupils' everyday life

Using physical functional capacity, pupils can travel to and from school and recreational activities and carry their school bag and recreational equipment themselves. They are able to focus, write, draw and do crafts both at school and during their spare time. As a result of good physical functional capacity, pupils can spend time with their friends and do all kinds of recreational activities.
In addition to physical functional capacity, healthy diet and sufficient sleep help pupils cope with the demands of daily life and enjoy recreational activities. Physical functional capacity has a vital impact on pupils' everyday well-being and health.

Maintaining and developing physical functional capacity

Endurance, strength, motor skills and flexibility are the components of the physical functional capacity that everybody can improve. Physical functional capacity cannot be stored but developing and maintaining it requires a certain amount of practice. 

In addition to physical education lessons at school, playing games during breaks and participating in recreational activities in one's spare time can help improve physical functional capacity. According to national Recommendation on Physical Activity for Children and Adolescents all children and adolescents aged 7 to 17 years in Finland are recommended to be physically active in a versatile, brisk and strenuous manner for at least 60 minutes a day in a way that suits the individual, considering their age. Excessive and extended sedentary activity should be avoided. That way physical functional capacity is improved and remains good enough for pupils to manage school day and leisure time activities with ease.