Is there a difference between physical activity and exercise? Unsure about why you should exercise? We explain what everyone should know about exercise.
With so many health and fitness terms, it can be confusing. So, let’s begin with a definition.
Physical activity refers to all body movements that result in energy expenditure. It can include planned activities such as walking, running, sports, stretching and weight training. And it can also include other daily activities such as household chores, yard work and walking the dog.
Exercise refers to planned and structured repetitive movements designed specifically to improve health and fitness. These activities can include walking, running, sports, yoga and weight training.
Not everyone uses these terms correctly but now you know the difference.
Benefits of Physical Activity
All physical activity is beneficial. And from government campaigns and health experts, we all know there are huge benefits to be gained by being active. Here is a reminder of some of the key benefits.
Physical Benefits
- Reduced risk of life threatening conditions, such as, heart disease, cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, osteoporosis and obesity
- Reduces blood pressure
- Improves cardiovascular system
- Increased strength
- Increased flexibility
- Weight loss, in combination with diet
- Increase athletic skills
Mental and Emotional Health Benefits
- Increased energy and enjoyment of life
- Stress reduction and relaxation
- Maintains and promotes positive self-esteem
- Better body image
- Improves your outlook on life
Better Quality of Life
- Easier to move
- Better physical ability later in life
- Sleep better
Not everyone benefits equally from exercise, but from this list, we can easily see that we should all participate. You get a lot for a little effort.
Everyday Activity to Regular Exercise
Being active every day in our daily lives can be easy. Here are some opportunities and simple changes that can make a big difference:
- Walk whenever you can. For instance, park further away from your destination. Or, get off the bus one stop before your normal stop and walk the rest of the way home.
- Leave the car at home. Walk or cycle instead.
- Use the stairs at home, at work or when you’re out.
- Shovel the walk in winter and garden in summer.
- Plan an activity with friends instead of going to the movies.
Starting an exercise routine may feel like a big challenge. So, here are our tips to help you make the transition:
- Select an activity you enjoy.
- Start slowly.
- Stick with it.
Fortunately, exercise makes you feel good so it is self-reinforcing.
Learn more about the types of exercises available to you.
4 Responses
[...] the original post: What is Exercise? What are the Benefits from Exercise? | Fitness [...]
Good post. This helped me alot in my college assignement. Thanks for your information.
In your opinion, what TYPE of exercise would you recommend for fat burning? I often hear that cardio is the best, but can never seem to get rid of my saddle bags!
Thanks
Anne
Hi Anne,
Cardio is good for fat burning. But if you want to get rid of your saddle bags then you’ll want to tone as well so I would recommend adding some strength training to your exercise routine.