Physical Activity

Physical activity is defined as any bodily movement involving the skeletal muscles that results in more energy expenditure than rest. Defined as such, physical activity can involve light-intensity activities, such as minimal/housework or yard work, stretching, and casual walking; moderate-intensity activities, such as brisk walking, water aerobics, and bicycling; and finally, vigorous-intensity exercises, such as running, freestyle lap swimming, and competitive sports. Lack of physical activity is related to a number of diseases such as hypertension and cardiovascular diseases, obesity, type 2 diabetes, colon and breast cancer, osteoporosis, stroke, and neurodegenerative diseases, such as multiple sclerosis and various dementias. On the other hand, engagement in physical activity is linked with preserved cognitive functioning, brain integrity, and improved overall quality of life. Thus, physical activity is ...