"The groundwork of all happiness is health." - Leigh Hunt

A balanced approach to fitness is essential.

A walking program is nice for you. Likewise resistance or weight training; Balance exercises help improve your athletic abilities and keep you independent.

Current US physical activity guidelines emphasize all three facets of fitness. Here are the recommendations:

  • All adults – including those with various disabilities – should aim for at the least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity, or 75 minutes of vigorous activity, or an equivalent combination of the 2, throughout the week.
  • Twenty minutes of moderate activity is in regards to the same as 10 minutes of vigorous activity. During moderate activities, you’ll be able to talk, but not sing; During vigorous activity, you’ll be able to only manage a couple of words out loud without pausing for breath. Increasing time—as much as 300 minutes of moderate activity, or 150 minutes of vigorous activity, or a mix—increases the health advantages achieved.
  • Strengthening activities are also beneficial twice weekly for all major muscle groups (legs, hips, back, abdomen, chest, shoulders and arms).
  • Balance exercises are especially vital for older adults prone to falling.
  • Flexibility exercises may also be helpful.

This much activity is a really lofty goal, and might feel overwhelming. If you’ll be able to't meet all the rules, experts suggest doing as much as you’ll be able to. Some activities should not all the time higher than none. Even small activities, resembling a five-minute walk several times a day, are an excellent first step toward achieving a bigger goal.

Photo: Dan Mitchell/Getty Images

No material on this site, no matter date, needs to be used as an alternative to direct medical advice out of your doctor or other qualified practitioner.