Physical Activity vs. Exercise

Physical activity and exercise are words that we hear often in the healthcare world as things that we should be doing to improve our quality of life. However, physical activity and exercise are different things, but both are important to have in our lives. In today's society, our jobs tend to make us sit for a majority of the day, which can be detrimental to our health, which means we need to move more and throughout the entire day. 

Physical Activity is the movement of muscles that require energy. On the other hand, exercise is planned, structures and repetitive, intentional movements to either improve or maintain physical fitness. 

Exercise:

• One of the best things we can do for our health
• Exercise helps slow down the aging process and is something everyone can do, even those with limitations
• If exercise is definitely not an option for you, at least getting some physical activity, you are still bettering yourself and your health

Physical Activity:

• Includes things we do everyday, like walking, gardening and household chores
• We should participate in physical activity 3 or more days a week as abilities allow
• Even walking 30 minutes a day can help decrease risk of heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, stress and helps regulate sleep and a normal weight
• Even though you may be someone who exercises daily, you may have a job where you are sitting all day, so including physical activity into your day is important as well

The bottom line, is that we need to move, and move often to maintain a good quality of life. This includes getting both exercise and participating in physical activity. We need to strength train, do cardiovascular exercises as well as move throughout the day whether that is walking, doing yard-work or cleaning your house a little bit each day.