Physical activity helps to burn calories, increase the heart rate, and keep blood flowing at a healthy rate. Daily exercise, a healthy diet, not smoking, and a healthy body weight help to maintain good vascular health.

benefits of physical activity:

-Maintains healthy weight
-Reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease; can lower blood pressure and improve cholesterol levels
-Reduces the risk for type 2 diabetes; can help control glucose levels
-Reduces the risk of colon and breast cancer
-Strengthens bones and muscles
– can increase or build muscle mass and strength; can slow the loss of bone density that comes with age; can help with arthritis and other joint conditions
-Can keep thinking, learning, and judgment skills sharp
-Reduces the symptoms of depression and anxiety
-Improves the ability to complete daily activities and prevent falls for older adults
-Increases the chances of living longer by reducing the risk of dying from leading causes of death: heart disease and some cancers.

One hundred fifty minutes of physical activity per week is recommended for adults ages 18 to 64. The activity can occur in a combination of moderate intensity aerobics and strength training. It is recommended to continue the activity for at least 10 minutes at a time.