(Here is some quick information on physical activity, just to get you started.  Please see other sections of this website for more in-depth information.)

Being physically active is one of the keys to living a longer, healthier and happier life. Physical activity can help you reach and maintain a healthy weight and lower your risk for chronic diseases like type 2 diabetes, heart disease and colon cancer. Getting active can also help you:

· Control high blood pressure
· Lower blood cholesterol
· Lower your risk for a stroke
· Increase your fitness level
· Build and maintain healthy bones, muscles, and joints
· Build your endurance and muscle strength
· Enhance your flexibility and posture
· Improve self-esteem and mood
· Reduce feelings of depression and anxiety.

Attention to both physical activity and nutrition are needed to stay healthy. The two factors work together and need to be in balance. In other words, calories taken in should equal energy used by our bodies. Being active increases the amount of calories you burn. As people age, our metabolism slows down, so maintaining energy balance requires moving more and eating less.

Some types of physical activity are especially good for us at any age:

· Aerobic activities – These activities speed heart rate and breathing and improve heart and lung fitness. Examples are brisk walking, jogging, and swimming laps.

· Resistance, strength building, and weight-bearing activities – help build and maintain bones and muscles by working them against gravity. Examples are carrying a child, lifting weights, and walking. These activities help build and maintain muscles and bones.

· Balance and stretching activities – enhance physical stability and flexibility, which reduces risk of injuries. Examples are gentle stretching, dancing, yoga, martial arts, and t'ai chi.

Go to the Take Action: Physical Activity section for recommended levels of activity by age and ideas to get moving at your congregation and at home (en Español).

The above text is based on content from the U.S. Department of Agriculture website.