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April 15, 2022, 9:31 am

According to Health.gov, only 20% of U.S. adults and adolescents get the recommended amount of physical activity. Currently, the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommends at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity activity each week, as well as muscle-strengthening activities 2 days per week.

Moderate-intensity activity can include walking at a brisk pace, dancing, and even doing chores in your home. Kick it up a notch with more vigorous activity like hiking or running.

Muscle-strengthening activities can include exercises like sit-ups, push-ups, squats, and bicep curls with weights.

Physical activity has immediate and long-term health benefits, such as:

  • Helping maintain a healthy weight
  • Improving your mood
  • Increasing heart health
  • Raising energy levels
  • Improving bone health

So, exercising is a win-win!

If you aren’t sure how you can fit a big workout into your day, just remember this: Move more, sit less! Add more movement into daily tasks by finding ways to get in some extra steps, like parking farther from your work (or other places) so you have to walk more. Take frequent breaks from your computer or phone to get up and stretch.

Need some help planning how to get in enough exercise? The U.S. Department of Health’s Move Your Way campaign has developed an incredibly convenient activity planner to help you choose activities, keep you motivated, and track your physical activity. Access the Activity Planner here.

Joining a gym is a great idea whether you’re completely new to working out or a regular fitness enthusiast. You can search for gyms and fitness programs close to you, or, check out CoxHealth Fitness Centers, which offer memberships that can include personal training, nutrition and weight management resources, and other fitness programs.

 

Sources:

Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, 2nd edition (health.gov)

Walk. Run. Dance. Play. What's your move? - Move Your Way | health.gov

Physical Activity Guidelines Questions & Answers | health.gov

 

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