What are the benefits of being physical active?

 Being physically active is an important part of a healthy lifestyle.  Individuals who participate in moderate or vigorous physical activity can reduce their risk for disease and premature death (USDHHS, 1996).  Physical activity has been shown to have the following health benefits:

• Reduces the risk of dying prematurely.
• Reduces the risk of dying prematurely from heart disease.
• Reduces the risk of developing diabetes.
• Reduces the risk of developing high blood pressure.
• Reduces blood pressure in people who already have high blood pressure.
• Reduces the risk of developing colon cancer.
• Reduces feelings of depression and anxiety.
• Helps control weight.
• Helps build and maintain healthy bones, muscles, and joints.
• Helps older adults maintain strength and the ability to move about without falling.
• Promotes psychological well-being.

 The benefits of physical activity have been clearly established; however, only a small percentage of individuals are active in the United States.  In fact, a large portion of college students and adults do not meet recommendations for exercise (ACHA, 2008) (USDHHS, 1996). 

Because of the dose-response relation between physical activity and health, persons who wish to further improve their personal fitness, reduce their risk for chronic disease and disabilities, or prevent unhealthy weight gain will likely benefit by exceeding the minimum recommended amount of physical activity