Moving Matters for Our Health

Being active benefits your mind and body.

Regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do for your health. Some activity is better than none! Adults need at least 150 minutes a week of moderate-intensity activity. That might sound like a lot, but you can spread your activity out during the week. For example, you could do 22 minutes of physical activity every day or 30 minutes 5 days a week. You can also count smaller chunks of physical activity during the day, like 5 minutes of climbing stairs.

A single bout of moderate to vigorous physical activity provides immediate health benefits. Regular physical activity helps prevent many chronic diseases. Even if you haven’t been physically active for a while, there are ways to get started. For example, make it a tradition to walk before or after dinner.

Think of activities that get you breathing harder and your heart beating faster, such as actively playing with children, dancing, roller skating, working in the yard (raking and bagging leaves or using a lawn mower), or playing basketball. Even stretching for 30 minutes burns about 90 calories!

Pressed for time? Add physical activity to a daily routine you already have. For example, park farther away from your destination or take the stairs instead of the elevator. Try activities with others in your household for motivation and mutual encouragement.