Need typology

Discover the thirteen fundamental human needs

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Fitness

Having and using a body that is healthy, rested, and energetic, rather than feeling ill, listless, or weak.

Fitness is about having a body that feels strong, healthy, and energetic enough to support everything you want to do in life. It's not just about athletic performance—it's about physical well-being that lets you feel comfortable and capable in your own skin.

This need shows up when you wake up feeling rested and ready for the day, when you can carry groceries upstairs without getting winded, or when you have enough energy to play with your kids after work. It's the satisfaction of a good meal that nourishes rather than weighs you down, the refreshing feeling after a walk in fresh air, or the deep relaxation that comes from a warm bath after physical activity.

Fitness looks different for everyone. For some, it's training for marathons; for others, it's simply having the stamina to garden on weekends or dance at a wedding. The key is that your body feels like an ally rather than a limitation—responsive when you need it to be, comfortable during daily activities, and resilient enough to recover from minor aches and illnesses.

When fitness is lacking, even simple tasks can feel draining, and you might feel disconnected from your physical self.

Sub-needs

Doing physical activity and getting exercise

Getting enough rest and recovery time

Being physically comfortable

Being in an environment that is healthy and hygienic

Needs on a Desert Island

Imagine you're shipwrecked on a desert island with a group of survivors. You're responsible for fulfilling everyone's fundamental needs to create a thriving community.

Every person has a body that needs to be fed, exercised, and rested. This means your islanders need food and water for nutrition, shelter against the scorching sun and tropical storms, and a daily regime of physical activity to keep fit. After physical effort, people need rest and recovery, so you have the group make beds and chairs.

Fundamental Needs in Overview

What does fitness look like in the House of Needs? Click the image to find out!

Is it possible to design a chair that specifically fulfills the need for fitness? Click the image to find out!