Final answer:
The recommended cardiorespiratory activities vary by exercise frequency: non-exercisers should start with low-intensity activities for at least 30 minutes daily, recreational exercisers should aim for 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activities weekly, and endurance exercisers may engage in 1-3 hours of daily moderate to high-intensity exercise for maximum benefits.
Step-by-step explanation:
The time and type of cardiorespiratory activities a person should engage in can vary based on their exercise habits. For a non-exerciser or occasional exerciser, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends starting with low-intensity or skill-based activities, aiming for at least 30 minutes of noncontinuous activity each day to reap health benefits and potentially reduce heart attack rates by nearly 50%. Recreational exercisers, or those who exercise regularly, should engage in a moderate exercise program, roughly 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week, or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity to gain substantial health benefits, such as improved cardiovascular and muscular fitness, better cognitive function, and enhanced psychological well-being.
These recommendations also suggest incorporating muscle-strengthening activities, like push-ups and weight lifting, at least twice a week. Endurance exercisers, those who follow an endurance program, may engage in 1-3 hours per day of moderate to high-intensity exercise. It is important to note that aerobic exercise, such as swimming, cycling, and jogging, generally relies on aerobic metabolism and should be done for extended periods for full cardiovascular benefits.