It’s a fact of life: everyone needs exercise. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends adults get at least 2.5 hours of moderate aerobic exercise each week. Kids should get 60 minutes or more of physical activity each day.
Anyone who exercises regularly knows it’s good for your body and your mind. It reduces your risk for heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers and it boosts your mood.
The right kind of exercise
Fitness is an often-debated, highly fad-driven industry. Depending on who you ask and when you ask, you're likely to get a different response regarding "the best" thing to do. The real answer is whatever movement makes you happy. That will encourage you to move on a regular basis, not for a brief health kick.
If something doesn't feel right for you, try another activity. Some ideas:
- Walking
- Biking
- Swimming
- Rowing
- Weight training
- Yoga or Pilates
Don't forget that everyday activity like this counts, too:
- Housework
- Gardening
- Climbing stairs
Anything that works your muscles and raises your heart rate is a step in the right direction.
We can help
Need some motivation or help staying active? Make sure to take advantage of health programs from Blue Cross that can keep you moving. Some may even reward you for making healthy choices.