Exercise & Fitness

Exercising regularly, every day if possible, is the single most important

thing you can do for your health. In the short term, exercise helps to control
appetite, boost mood, and improve sleep. In the long term, it reduces the
risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, dementia, depression, and many
cancers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend the
following:

For adults of all ages

 At least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise like brisk walking
or 75 minutes of rigorous exercise like running (or an equivalent mix of
both) every week.  It’s fine to break up exercise into smaller sessions as
long as each one lasts at least 10 minutes.
 Strength-training that works all major muscle groups—legs, hips,
back, abdomen, chest, shoulders, and arms—at least two days a week.
Strength training may involve lifting weights, using resistance bands, or
exercises like push-ups and sit-ups, in which your body weight furnishes
the resistance.
For pregnant women
The guidelines for aerobic exercise are considered safe for most pregnant
women. The CDC makes no recommendation for strength training. It’s a
good idea to review your exercise plan with your doctor.

For children
At least 60 minutes of physical activity a day, most of which should be
devoted to aerobic exercise. Children should do vigorous exercise and
strength training, such as push-ups or gymnastics, on at least three days