Why Small Steps To Exercise Make a Big Difference

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Healthfinder. Monthly Spotlight   May 2012 

  Got 10 Minutes? Dr. Wright Tells You How To Spend Them.
 
Get Fit Your Way >> a person pushing a wheelbarrow

“My wife and I enjoy going outside together to do yard work. This month, pick one physical activity you like. Then plan how you will fit it into your schedule.”

 

Our bodies need exercise to stay healthy. Physical activity can help you control your blood pressure and weight. It can also lower your risk for heart disease and type 2 diabetes.

To get the most out of being active, try to fit in both aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities each week.

  • Aim for 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise (like walking fast and dancing) a week.
  • Do muscle-strengthening exercises (like push-ups and lifting weights) at least 2 days a week.

Exercise leads to health benefits, even if you only have small windows of time to fit it into your day. Start by doing 10 minutes a few times a day, and build on these small steps to make activity part of your routine.

Dr. Don Wright
Chief Medical Advisor, healthfinder.gov

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