Physical Activity

Physical activity includes leisure time physical activity such as walking, cycling, dancing, gardening, hiking, swimming, household chores, play, games, sports or planned exercise, in the context of daily, family, and community activities. Sedentary behavior is activity that involves little or no physical activity such as sitting, watching television, playing video games, and using a computer.

Physical activity is any body movement while exercise means purposeful, structured and repetitive movements. Physical activity, exercise and sports improve or maintain physical fitness. Physical fitness is a state of well-being with a low risk of premature health problems and energy to participate in a variety of activities. Living a sedentary life can lead to a loss of functional health.

The components of physical fitness are cardiovascular endurance enhanced by aerobic activity, strength, balance, flexibility and coordination.  “Use it or lose it” is a key rule for maintaining physical independence as a person grows older.

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