Benefits

Regular physical activity improves health in the following ways:

• Reduces the risk of dying prematurely.

• Reduces the risk of dying from heart disease.

• Reduces the risk of developing diabetes.

• Reduces the risk of developing high blood pressure.

• Helps reduce blood pressure in people who already have high blood pressure.

• Reduces the risk of developing colon cancer.

• Reduces feelings of depression and anxiety.

• Helps control weight.

• Helps build and maintain healthy bones, muscles and joints.

• Helps older adults become stronger and better able to move about without falling.

• Promotes psychological well-being.

Regular physical activity burns calories and preserves lean muscle mass. It is a key component of any weight loss effort and is important for controlling weight.