Physical activity

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Aerobic exercise	Benefit of regular exercise	Exercise and age	Exercise - a powerful tool
Exercise can lower blood pressure	Exercise with friends	Flexibility exercise	Isometric exercise
Preventative medicine

Twenty minutes of continuous aerobic activity 3 days per week is recommended for weight loss. Examples of physical activity that are considered aerobic are: walking, running, jogging, hiking, swimming, bike riding, rowing, cross country skiing, and jumping rope.

BENEFITS

Physical activity contributes to health by reducing the heart rate, decreasing the risk for cardiovascular disease, and reducing the amount of bone loss that is associated with age and osteoporosis. Physical activity also helps the body use calories better, thereby helping with weight loss and weight maintenance. It can increase basal metabolic rate, reduces appetite, and help in the reduction of body fat.

SIDE EFFECTS

Physical activity should be done at a rate that is right for the person. An evaluation by an exercise physiologist is helpful, in order to to avoid injuries. Injuries can occur if physical activity is started without much consideration as to the type or length of the activity, and the physical condition of the person.

Review Date: 10/24/2006
Reviewed By: Daniel R Alexander, MD, Department of Internal Medicine, St. Mary's Hospital, Leonardtown, MD. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.