In this Article

• The importance of physical activity and fitness
• Why should I be active?
• Can everyone benefit from physical activity?
• What are the recommendations for increasing fitness for youth, adults, and seniors?
• How do I get started with a fitness plan?
• When is a medical evaluation necessary?
• How can I make physical activity a part of my life?
• What are the components of physical fitness?
• Fitness terms
• Exercise and Activity Glossary
• Exercise and Activity Index

Can everyone benefit from physical activity?

"Do it, move it, make it happen. No one ever sat their way to success." -Unknown

The good news about regular physical activity is that everyone can benefit from it (USDHHS, 1996).

• Older adults: No one is too old to enjoy the benefits of regular physical activity. Evidence indicates that muscle-strengthening exercises can reduce the risk of falling and fracturing bones and can improve the ability to live independently.

• Parents and children: Parents can help their children maintain a physically active lifestyle by providing encouragement and opportunities for physical activity. Families can plan outings and events that allow and encourage everyone in the family to be active.

• Teenagers: Regular physical activity improves strength, builds lean muscle, and decreases body fat. Activity can build stronger bones to last a lifetime.

• People trying to manage their weight: Regular physical activity burns calories while preserving lean muscle mass. Regular physical activity is a key component of any weight-loss or weight-management effort.

• People with high blood pressure: Regular physical activity helps lower blood pressure.

• People with physical disabilities, including arthritis: Regular physical activity can help people with chronic, disabling conditions improve their stamina and muscle strength. It also can improve psychological well-being and quality of life by increasing the ability to perform the activities of daily life.

• Everyone under stress, including persons experiencing anxiety or depression: Regular physical activity improves one's mood, helps relieve depression, and increases feelings of well-being.

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