Physical Activity Pyramid [Infographic]

Physical Activity Pyramid

A sedentary lifestyle over an extended period of time is thought to contribute to (or may even be directly responsible for) all kinds of health problems including weight gain and obesity, loss of muscle and bone, and a sundry of serious chronic diseases.

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and many health and wellness experts advise adopting a more active lifestyle which includes at least 60 minutes of physical activity a day.  The actual type of physical activity that an individual should engage in depends on various factors including his or her age, fitness level, and any physical limitations.  Persons who have been sedentary, are pregnant or nursing, or have a medical condition should always consult with a healthcare professional before starting an exercise program.

That said, many sedentary but otherwise healthy individuals often don't know where to start or how to proceed as they get in better physical shape.  This Physical Activity Pyramid from Fitness for Life  by Charles B. Corbin and Guy Le Masurier can help to serve as a guideline for how much, how often and what type of exercise is generally recommended.  For more information, including an excerpt from the book, visit The Physical Activity Pyramid at HumanKinetics.com (where we found this infographic).

Related:
Infographic:  12 Mental Benefits of Exercise
Infographic:  The Happiness Effect - How Exercise Makes You Happy