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Although many people view exercise as a way to lose weight, it plays a key role in the wellbeing of the body beyond weight loss.
Research strongly supports its benefits across a range of physical and mental health conditions for people of all ages. However, busy lifestyles and an environment that induces sitting for most hours of the day (driving door to door, sitting at an office desk, relaxing in the evening in front of the television) have led to exercise being a low priority for most people. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found that only 1 in 5 American adults are meeting physical activity guidelines. Inactivity increases the risk of early death, type 2 diabetes, heart disease, stroke, osteoporosis, depression, and some cancers. [1] In November 2018, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services released its second edition of the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans to provide evidence-based recommendations for children and adults. [2] Included are new evidence about specific health benefits of exercise and updated guidelines for different age groups: ages 3-5, 6-17, adults, and older adults. Special conditions in adults are addressed such as pregnancy and postpartum, chronic diseases, and disabilities. The guidelines highlight the specific amounts of exercise needed for each age and condition and types of exercises. Key highlights
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Post navigationWhat are the key recommendations of the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans?For substantial health benefits, adults should do at least 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) to 300 minutes (5 hours) a week of moderate-intensity, or 75 minutes (1 hour and 15 minutes) to 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) a week of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity, or an equivalent combination of ...
Which recommendation is included in the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans for adolescence?The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, 2nd edition [PDF – 13.5 MB], issued by the US Department of Health and Human Services, recommend that children and adolescents ages 6 through 17 years do 60 minutes (1 hour) or more of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity daily.
What is the recommendation from the 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans regarding muscle strengthening activity?— Muscle-strengthening: As part of their 60 or more minutes of daily physical activity, children and adolescents should include muscle-strengthening physical activity on at least 3 days of the week.
What are the American Heart Association's physical activity guidelines for adults?Get at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes per week of vigorous aerobic activity (or a combination of both), preferably spread throughout the week.
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