Physical Activity and Your Heart What Is Physical Activity?

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Physical activity is any body movement that works your muscles and requires more energy than resting. Walking, running, dancing, swimming, yoga, and gardening are a few examples of physical activity.

According to the Department of Health and Human Services' 2018 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans physical activity generally refers to movement that enhances health. Physical activity is recommended for everyone from 3 years of age and older.

Types of physical activities include aerobic, muscle-strengthening, bone-strengthening, balance, and flexibility activities. Exercise is physical activity that is planned and structured, such as lifting weights, taking an aerobics class, or playing on a sports team.

Physical activity is good for many parts of your body. This topic focuses on the benefits for your heart and lungs and provides tips for getting started and staying active. Physical activity is one part of a heart-healthy lifestyle. A heart-healthy lifestyle also involves following a heart-healthy eating, aiming for a healthy weight, managing stress, and quitting smoking.

Being physically active is one of the best ways to keep your heart and lungs healthy. Many Americans are not active enough. The good news, though, is that even modest amounts of physical activity are good for your health. The more active you are, the more you will benefit.