- the government released a new edition of
- Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans
- moderate-intensity exercise each week, the guidelines recommend.
ADVERTISEMENT
New guidelines say you don't have to work out as long as you think, but there's a big catch
The government released a new edition of "Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans" with specific recommendations for those with disabilities or chronic illnesses.
If you think your busy schedule is stopping you from logging enough hours at the gym, the new physical activity guidelines may convince you otherwise. On Monday, the government released a second edition of "Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans" with specific recommendations for children, adults, and those with disabilities or chronic illnesses.
According to the HHS, 80% of adults and adolescents in the United States fail to meet the minimum physical activity recommendations. With the new guidelines, HHS hopes to inform patients on how to make exercise a regular part of their lifestyles.
The guidelines suggest adults complete just two and a half hours (and up to five hours) of moderate-intensity physical activity, like briskly walking or raking leaves, each week. The new guidelines also outlined recommendations for 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous exercise per day for children ages 6 to 17, with three days including both muscle- and bone-strengthening activities. Children ages 3 to 5 should also be as physically active as possible, but no specific time recommendation was offered.
ADVERTISEMENT
Older adults and those with disabilities or chronic illnesses should follow the adult guidelines to the best of their abilities, says the HHS. For pregnant people, 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week is recommended during and after pregnancy.
It's best to spread the physical activity throughout the week and avoid sitting as much as possible. If you're still stumped on how to fit in your sweat session, try turning your chores into exercise, walking around the block during your lunch break, or going for a hike while you catch up with a friend.
JOIN OUR PULSE COMMUNITY!
ADVERTISEMENT
Eyewitness? Submit your stories now via social or:
Email: eyewitness@pulse.ng
ADVERTISEMENT