Final answer:
The 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommend adults to engage in at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity weekly, alongside muscle-strengthening exercises. These guidelines aim to improve health and decrease chronic disease risks, offering benefits like improved cardiovascular and muscular fitness, weight management, and increased life expectancy.
Step-by-step explanation:
2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans
The 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans reinforce the 1996 U.S. Surgeon General’s Report on Physical Activity and Health by providing evidence-based recommendations for physical activity levels to improve health and reduce the risk of chronic diseases. The guidelines emphasize that all adults should prioritize moving more and sitting less throughout the day, with the understanding that some physical activity is better than none. To gain substantial health benefits, adults are advised to achieve at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity, or an equivalent combination of both.
Moderate-intensity physical activities allow one to talk but not sing during the activity, whereas vigorous activities are so demanding that an individual can say only a few words without stopping for breath. Alongside aerobic activities, muscle-strengthening activities are recommended at least two days per week and should involve all major muscle groups.
Health benefits associated with increased physical activity include improved cardiovascular and muscular fitness, stronger bones, enhanced cognitive function, and help with weight loss and maintenance. Other cited benefits of physical exercise include a lower risk of cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and improvements in mental health and life expectancy.