Exercise
Health Benefits of Exercise
Regular exercise can help protect you from many of health risks that are the leading causes of illness in the United States and help you better manage stress.
Many experts recommend that you do 20 to 30 minutes of aerobic activity three or more times a week and some type of muscle strengthening activity and stretching at least twice a week as one of easiest ways of keeping healthy. If you are unable to do this amount of activity, you can gain substantial health benefits by accumulating 30 minutes or more of moderate-intensity physical activity a day, at least five times a week.
If you have been inactive for a while, you may want to start with less strenuous activities such as walking or swimming at a comfortable pace. Beginning at a slow pace will allow you to become physically fit without straining your body. Once you are in better shape, you can gradually do more strenuous activity.
Regular exercise and good nutrition can help you maintain a healthy Body Mass Index.
Exercise Improves:
- Flexibility
- Cardiovascular & cardiorespiratory function
- Functioning of your immune system
- Strength of muscles and tendons
- Skin tone, making your skin look more elastic
- Sleep patterns
- Self-esteem and a greater sense of self-reliance and self-confidence
- Ability to relax
- Personal satisfaction and self-image
- Perceptions of acceptance by others
- Productivity
- Overall quality of life
Helpful Resources
- For
more information, including resources that can help you get your
kids up and moving,
please visit the CDC's Physical Activity for Everyone website.
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