Final answer:
The 2018 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommend adults to engage in at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week and muscle-strengthening activities on 2 or more days per week.
Step-by-step explanation:
According to the 2018 Physical Activity Guidelines issued by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), adults should aim for at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity every week. Additionally, it is recommended to engage in muscle-strengthening activities on 2 or more days a week. Examples of moderate-intensity activities include those where you can talk but not sing, like brisk walking. For further health benefits, adults may increase their aerobic physical activity beyond 300 minutes per week. It is crucial not only for reducing the risk of chronic disease but also for promoting overall health through benefits such as increased cardiovascular fitness, muscle strength, and cognitive function.
Engaging in strength training is also important, and should be done involving all major muscle groups with at least moderate intensity. Regular exercise provides a myriad of health benefits, including weight maintenance, improved bone density, enhanced cognitive ability, and better psychological well-being. Avoiding an all-or-nothing approach to exercise and starting with shorter periods of moderate activities is encouraged, progressively building up to the recommended levels.
Despite the clear evidence and established guidelines, a significant portion of the American population does not meet the suggested physical activity levels. Hence, there is an ongoing emphasis on educating and motivating individuals to integrate more physical activity into their daily lives.