An active lifestyle can lower your risk of early death from a variety of causes and help you maintain a healthy weight. It also might improve your mood and help you to sleep better. For older adults, activity can improve mental function. Health benefits are gained by doing the following each week:
- 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity
or
- 1 hour and 15 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity
or
- A combination of moderate and vigorous aerobic activity
and
- Muscle-strengthening activities on 2 or more days of the week
If you are not active, ask your doctor what’s okay for you. Activity is important for everyone.
Source: Office on Women’s Health in the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.