Final answer:
The beneficial effects of physical fitness will significantly diminish within approximately 2 to 8 weeks after ceasing exercise. Regular moderate exercise and muscle-strengthening activities provide substantial health benefits, including a lower risk of heart disease and preservation of muscle mass.
Step-by-step explanation:
If a person stops exercising, the beneficial effects of physical fitness will significantly diminish within approximately 2 to 8 weeks. This timeframe can vary depending on the individual’s previous exercise frequency and intensity. Regular aerobic physical activity is recommended by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) for substantial health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease and increasing life expectancy.
In fact, moderate exercise such as 30 minutes of noncontinuous exercise each day can significantly lower the risk of a heart attack by nearly 50 percent. It’s important to note that the beneficial effects of exercise are not limited to physical health but also include improvements in cognitive function and psychological well-being. Importantly, muscle-strengthening activities should also be incorporated to maintain overall health and muscle mass, which naturally tends to decline with age.