Exercise as Medicine
How Physical Activity Protects Your Health
REGULAR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY PROTECTS HEALTH OVER TIME
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Heart and blood vessels: Regular activity lowers the risk of heart
disease and stroke and can improve blood pressure and
cholesterol. -
Type 2 diabetes: Physical activity improves insulin sensitivity
and lowers the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. -
Brain health: Regular activity is associated with lower risk of
dementia and depression and supports brain health. -
Cancer risk: Higher physical activity is associated with lower
risk of several cancers. CDC identifies bladder, breast, colon,
endometrial, esophageal, kidney, lung and stomach cancers. -
Bones and muscles: Weight-bearing and resistance exercise
help maintain bone and muscle, supporting strength and mobility. -
Balance and falls: Activity that develops strength, balance and
coordination helps reduce fall risk as we age. -
Body composition and weight: Activity helps prevent excess
weight gain and, together with appropriate nutrition, supports
healthier body composition. -
Independence and quality of life: Staying active helps preserve
physical function so everyday tasks can remain easier for longer.
Exercise is not simply a way to burn calories or change how your body looks. Regular physical activity affects nearly every system in the body.
SOME BENEFITS BEGIN AFTER A SINGLE SESSION
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Blood pressure: A single session of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity can temporarily lower blood pressure.
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Sleep: Physical activity can improve sleep quality.
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Stress and anxiety: Even one session can reduce feelings of anxiety.
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Blood sugar response: Physical activity improves insulin sensitivity and helps muscles use glucose.
THE BENEFITS GO BEYOND WEIGHT LOSS
Some of the most important benefits of exercise occur even when the scale does not change. Physical activity can improve blood pressure, insulin sensitivity, cholesterol and cardiorespiratory fitness independent of weight loss.
MOVEMENT COUNTS
You do not have to be an athlete to benefit. Any amount of physical activity is better than none, and benefits begin with small amounts. A complete program includes aerobic activity, muscle-strengthening exercise and—as we age—activities that challenge balance and function.
THE BOTTOM LINE
Exercise cannot guarantee that disease will never occur, and it does not replace appropriate medical care. But regular physical activity is one of the most powerful lifestyle tools available for reducing health risks, improving physical function, and helping the body remain stronger, fitter and more capable across the lifespan.
Move more. Build strength. Improve fitness. Protect your future health.
RELIABLE RESOURCES
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