Author: C. Small

Are you a couch potato?  Do you prefer sitting on the sidelines watching others have fun?  Well, it’s time to get up and get active.  The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM), the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and the Surgeon General have all issued statements that recommend placing an emphasis on adopting physical activity into one’s lifestyle.  Their purpose is to make us aware of the health benefits associated with increased physical activity, as well as to highlight the amount and intensity of activity necessary to achieve optimal results.

Now before you look at increasing your physical activities, you should consult your physician to ensure a safe and healthy experience.  Next, you must  understand the term. Physical activity cannot be defined in just one or two words; it is a broad term that encompasses all forms of muscle movements.  These movements can range from sports to lifestyle activities (such as house cleaning, gardening, etc).  Also, exercise can be defined as physical activity that is a planned, structured movement of the body designed to enhance physical fitness. Regimented or purposeful exercise consists of a program that includes twenty to sixty minutes of activity at least three to five days a week.

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