Exercise
Being physically active is one of the most positive things we can do for our health. The benefits are nearly universal and range from improving muscular strength to enhancing our immune function to helping our heart by lowering resting heart rate. These benefits translate into lower risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, hypertension, diabetes, and certain types of cancer. Recently, studies have documented the benefits of exercise to psychological well-being. In addition, its contribution to overall fitness and weight control are very important given the rates of obesity we just discussed.
Experts agree that both weight bearing resistance training and aerobic training are important for optimal fitness. However, it takes aerobic exercise to burn fat tissue because oxygen must be present for this metabolic process to occur.
All exercise burns calories, walking two miles a day burns an extra 1400 calories each week. Recommendations now are for Americans to aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity each day, and it may occur in ten minute bouts rather than one long session. This recommendation provides a lot of flexibility for working individuals to spread out their fitness throughout the day.