Physical activity is an essential component of maintaining health and well-being. Regular physical activity helps to reduce the risk of a range of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers, and can help to improve mental health and reduce feelings of depression and anxiety.
Benefits of Physical Activity
Physical activity can have a range of benefits for overall health and wellbeing. Regular physical activity can help to:
-Improve physical fitness and strength
-Reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers
-Help to manage weight
-Improve mental health and reduce feelings of depression and anxiety
-Increase energy levels
-Improve sleep quality
Recommendations for Physical Activity
The American Heart Association recommends that adults aged 18 and over should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity a week, or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity a week. In addition to this, adults should also aim to do muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days a week.
Types of Physical Activity
There are different types of physical activity that can help to maintain health and wellbeing. These include:
-Aerobic activity: activities that use large muscle groups and are rhythmic in nature, such as running, cycling, or swimming
-Muscle-strengthening activities: activities that work the major muscle groups, such as push-ups, sit-ups, and weight-lifting
-Flexibility activities: activities that involve stretching and range of motion, such as yoga and Pilates
Conclusion
Physical activity is an essential component of maintaining health and well-being. Regular physical activity can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve mental health, and increase energy levels. The American Heart Association recommends that adults aged 18 and over should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity a week, or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity a week. In addition to this, adults should also aim to do muscle-strengthening activities on two or more days a week.