Final answer:
The best intervention for insufficient physical activity is following the 2018 Physical Activity Guidelines by the HHS, which include aerobics and strength activities combined with lifestyle changes like walking more and sitting less. These activities are known to enhance overall health, reduce disease risk, and improve longevity.
Step-by-step explanation:
The best intervention for reducing risk factors associated with insufficient physical activity is adherence to the 2018 Physical Activity Guidelines set by the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS). These evidence-based guidelines emphasize the importance of moving more and sitting less throughout the day, encouraging adults to undertake at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity, or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week, or an equivalent combination of both. Furthermore, muscle-strengthening activities should be integrated at least twice a week.
To overcome the challenge of insufficient physical activity, integrating more movement into daily routines is essential. Simple modifications include brisk walking while doing household chores, taking stairs instead of elevators, and incorporating short exercise sessions during television commercials. It's also recommended to engage in at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week to sustain a healthy lifestyle and counterbalance calorie intake.
Embracing regular physical activity not only mitigates numerous health risks such as cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, and depression but also enhances one's quality of life by improving cardiovascular and muscular fitness, bone density, cognitive function, and assisting in weight management.