Why is Physical Activity Important?
Being physically active is fun, helps you The more active you are,
look and feel your best, and gives you more the faster your heart beats.
energy to do other things. Because your heart is a muscle, it becomes
Physical activity helps your body work stronger and more efficient when you exercise
better, too! It can: it. You definitely want your heart to be strong
improve blood circulation throughout enough to pump blood throughout your body!
your body To benefit most from physical activity, try to
get at least 60 minutes of moderate- or high-
help keep weight under control intensity activity each day.
improve blood cholesterol levels If you are active at a low-intensity level,
boost your energy level you should be able to sing while doing the
help you sleep activity. If you are active at a moderate-
intensity level, you should be able to
make you feel good about yourself
ity
talk comfortably while doing the
Oc
s
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en
give you stronger muscles activity. If you are too out of breath
sio
t
In
Washing a car
to carry on a conversation, the
na
w
lly
Lo
Cleaning house
activity is considered high-
Gardening
intensity.
Walking the dog
Gymnastics Dancing Canoeing
Volleyball Jumping Rope Skiing
Skateboarding In-line Skating
Push-ups/Pull-ups Climbing
Bicycling (0-10mph) Karate
ity
Hiking Mowing the Lawn
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en
nt
eI
at
er
od
Ev
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Playing Basketball Jumping Jacks
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Playing Hockey Running Playing Soccer
Hi
ay
Aerobics Playing Tennis
Activity Pyramid
Get Moving Today!
2007, American Heart Association. Also known as the Heart Fund. 6/07CB0170
