Esercizi

Esercizi is the plural form of esercizio in Italian, and the term is used to describe tasks designed to practice a skill or test knowledge. In Italian, it covers two broad domains: academic or educational activities and physical or sports-related activities.

In education, esercizi are items found in textbooks and worksheets intended to reinforce learning. They may ask students to solve problems, translate sentences, complete phrases, or apply rules. Esercizi can be graded or used for self-assessment, and they are often organized from simpler to more complex levels. Common expressions include esercizi di matematica, esercizi di grammatica, and esercizi di comprensione. Some may come with solutions (soluzioni degli esercizi) or guided steps (soluzioni parziali). Writers distinguish between esercizi da svolgere (to be solved) and esercizi risolti (worked examples).

In the context of fitness and sport, esercizi refer to individual movements or drills designed to improve conditioning, strength, flexibility, or technique. Examples include stretching exercises, core exercises, and training drills. Fitness programs typically specify repetitions and sets for each esercizio.

The word derives from Latin exercitium, from exercere “to train,” and has been part of the Italian lexicon for many centuries. Today, esercizi remain a standard term in curricula, textbooks, language learning materials, and fitness guides, reflecting its dual role in developing mental competencies and physical capability.