Exercise

Cycling is a popular form of exercise.
Weight training

Exercise is physical activity that enhances or maintains fitness and overall health.[1][2] It is performed for various reasons, including weight loss or maintenance, to aid growth and improve strength, develop muscles and the cardiovascular system, prevent injuries, hone athletic skills, improve health,[3] or simply for enjoyment. Many people choose to exercise outdoors where they can congregate in groups, socialize, and improve well-being as well as mental health.[4][5]

In terms of health benefits, usually, 2.5 hours of moderate-intensity exercise per week is recommended for reducing the risk of health problems.[6][7][8] At the same time, even doing a small amount of exercise is healthier than doing none. Only doing an hour and a quarter (11 minutes/day) of exercise could reduce the risk of early death, cardiovascular disease, stroke, and cancer.[9][10]

  1. ^ Kylasov A, Gavrov S (2011). Diversity Of Sport: non-destructive evaluation. Paris: UNESCO: Encyclopedia of Life Support Systems. pp. 462–91. ISBN 978-5-89317-227-0.
  2. ^ Liberman, Daniel (2020). Exercised. Vintage Books. ISBN 978-0593295397.
  3. ^ "7 great reasons why exercise matters". Mayo Clinic. Retrieved 2 November 2018.
  4. ^ Bergstrom K, Muse T, Tsai M, Strangio S (19 January 2011). "Fitness for Foreigners". Slate. Retrieved 5 December 2016.
  5. ^ Deslandes A, Moraes H, Ferreira C, Veiga H, Silveira H, Mouta R, et al. (2009). "Exercise and mental health: many reasons to move". Neuropsychobiology. 59 (4): 191–198. doi:10.1159/000223730. PMID 19521110. S2CID 14580554.
  6. ^ "Physical activity guidelines for adults aged 19 to 64". NHS. 25 January 2022. Retrieved 21 August 2023.
  7. ^ "How much physical activity do adults need?". Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 22 June 2023. Retrieved 21 August 2023.
  8. ^ "Physical activity". WHO. Retrieved 21 August 2023.
  9. ^ "Small amounts of exercise protect against early death, heart disease and cancer". NIHR Evidence (Plain English summary). National Institute for Health and Care Research. 14 August 2023. doi:10.3310/nihrevidence_59256. S2CID 260908783.
  10. ^ Garcia, Leandro; Pearce, Matthew; Abbas, Ali; et al. (28 February 2023). "Non-occupational physical activity and risk of cardiovascular disease, cancer and mortality outcomes: a dose–response meta-analysis of large prospective studies". British Journal of Sports Medicine. 57 (15): 979–989. doi:10.1136/bjsports-2022-105669. ISSN 0306-3674. PMC 10423495. PMID 36854652.