Arkansas Exercise Resources
Are you exercising enough to meet health recommendations? To reap health benefits, adults should aim to accumulate 150 minutes of moderate-intensity cardiovascular exercise each week. If you're exercising vigorously, 75 minutes each week hits the mark. It's also recommended to do muscle-strengthening activities two days per week. The more you exercise, the greater the health benefits. So get up and get moving! At least 10 minutes a day adds up to improve health!
Need help being active?
Check out our Extension GetFit programs! Contact your county extension office to learn about classes near you.
Exercise Recommendations
Experts recommend several types of exercise: cardiovascular, or aerobic; strength training or resistance training; and flexibility exercises. Older adults should also incorporate balance exercises into their routine.
Cardiovascular Exercise
Cardiovascular exercise, also called endurance or aerobic exercise, increases your breathing and heart rate. This improves the health of your heart and lungs. Increased endurance keeps you healthier and improves stamina for daily activities.
Strength Training
Strength training, also called resistance training or weight lifting, makes you stronger by building muscle. This increased strength allows you to maintain your quality of life and independence.
Flexibility Exercises
Flexibility or stretching exercises keep your body flexible by stretching the muscles and tissues that hold your body structures together. Stretching is recommended to prevent injuries.
Balance
Balance exercises improve stability. Balance exercises can help prevent falls. Falling is a major cause of broken hips and other injuries that often lead to disability and loss of independence.