Physical activity is any movement that uses muscles and requires energy. It can be planned, structured, and repetitive, such as walking, running, or swimming. It can also be part of daily activities, such as gardening, housework, or playing with children.
Regular physical activity has many health benefits, including:
* Reducing your risk of chronic diseases, such as heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancer
* Improving your mental health, by reducing stress, anxiety, and depression
* Boosting your energy levels
* Improving your sleep quality
* Helping you maintain a healthy weight
* Strengthening your bones and muscles
* Improving your balance and flexibility
* Reducing your risk of falls
Adults should get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity each week. Children and adolescents should get at least 60 minutes of physical activity each day.
You don't have to join a gym or buy expensive equipment to be physically active. There are many ways to get regular physical activity, such as:
* Walking
* Running
* Swimming
* Biking
* Dancing
* Gardening
* Housework
* Playing with children
Find an activity that you enjoy and that fits into your lifestyle. Make physical activity a part of your daily routine and you will soon start to see the benefits.