Moving more
Moving your body more includes carrying out everyday activities – such as doing housework, grocery shopping or walking to work. It's also important to schedule exercise into your weekly activities.
Different types of physical activity are important:
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Aerobic physical activities (also known as cardio) increase your heart rate and make you breathe harder. Examples include walking, dancing or playing basketball. In general, during moderate-intensity activity you will be able to talk, but not sing. During vigorous-intensity activity, you will not be able to say more than a few words without pausing for a breath.
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Strengthening activities work your muscles and bones using resistance or weight (including your own body weight). Examples include lifting weights, doing push-ups or using resistance bands. Many activities, such as running, are both aerobic and strengthening.
Regular physical activity is good for your lifelong health. Benefits include:
- reducing your risk of diseases like cancer, heart disease, high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes
- strengthening your mental wellness by improving mood, reducing stress, and helping you sleep better
- helping you achieve and maintain a healthy weight
- improving flexibility, strength and balance, which can help prevent falls