Exercise is one of the most fundamental parts of our existence.
Did you know?
Whether you work in construction, or like taking the dog out for a walk, this is all considered exercise.
A question that I have been getting for quite some time is:
How Much time do I need to exercise per week?
Believe it or not, but exercise is something that many health professionals do not even know how to answer. A recent study that partially evaluated the understanding of health care professionals and exercise guidelines, it was found with many that “they had received little or no pre-registration education in physical activity or exercise.” However, those who worked out more often were found to have more understanding of these guidelines. Check out the article here.
Exercise prescription and exercise knowledge; this is precisely why it is so essential that your Physical Therapist, Medical Doctor, Fitness coach, actually needs to exercise!
So what does the research say about how much we should exercise?
Well first, The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) is the governing body of physical activity guidelines.
For an adult to achieve health benefits, The ACSM recommends:
At least 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) per week of moderate-intensity exercise.
OR
At least 75 minutes (1 hour and 15 minutes) per week of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity.
Moderate activity includes:
Bilking
Walking your dog
Swimming
Sports
Vigorous activity includes:
Weight lifting
High-intensity exercise like running or sprinting
Additionally, there is a recommendation that physical activity be spread throughout the week.
According to the ACSM as well:
“Additional health benefits are gained by engaging in physical activity beyond the equivalent of 300 minutes (5 hours) of moderate-intensity physical activity a week.”
“Adults should also do muscle-strengthening activities of moderate or greater intensity and that involve all major muscle groups on 2 or more days a week, as these activities provide additional health benefits.”
In conclusion, it is so important to exercise as often as possible. The ACSM additionally states that even if you cannot achieve the recommended amount of exercise, something is always better than nothing! Check out our blog here, learn how to get started exercising.
You have to start somewhere, and why not speak with a movement professional!
Please contact us for information to get you working towards your fitness goals!
References
https://health.gov/sites/default/files/2019-09/Physical_Activity_Guidelines_2nd_edition.pdf
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