Knowing the Difference Between Exercising and Being Physically Active

According to the World Health Organization, physical activity consists of any movement of the skeletal muscles that releases energy. Physical activity includes the entire spectrum of thoughtful movement, such as walking, lifting boxes and recreational activities. However, as WHO points out, while exercise is a form of physical activity, its distinction lies in its purpose. Where physical activity is very broad-based, exercise is structured and planned physical activity with the specific purpose of improving and maintaining physical fitness.

Getting More Physical Activity

• WHO reports that physical inactivity may be the cause of more than 20 percent of all cases of diabetes, colon cancers and breast cancers. So, engaging in regular physical activity of any type is crucial for protecting and maintaining overall health. You can burn a significant number of calories daily by engaging in nonexercise physical activity, or NEPA. NEPA can't replace exercise, but it can be an important aid in weight loss and management. NEPA includes taking the stairs instead of elevators, washing your car by hand and taking a walk during lunch breaks or after dinner.

Benefits of Exercise

• Exercise offers an array of targeted health benefits, including developing and maintaining strong bones and muscles, strengthening the heart, and improving mood and sleep. University of Maryland Medical Center notes that when children engage in regular exercise, they may be lowering the risk of chronic pain in the future. Regular exercise also has long-term positive effects on metabolism, the circulatory/cardiovascular system and the respiratory system. Exercise generally includes components of aerobic activity, strength training or flexibility training. While not all types of exercise are appropriate for everyone, everyone can reap benefits of some type of exercise.

Basic Requirements

• Personal fitness goals and objectives through exercise will vary with each individual. However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention states that to get the optimal health benefits of physical activity overall, adults should engage in at least 150 minutes of weekly moderate aerobic activity -- activities like brisk walking or bike riding -- or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity -- like running or swimming fast laps. The CDC also reports that adults need a minimum of two days per week of muscle-strengthening activities that engage all major muscle groups.

Precautions

• While moderate physical activity is safe for most people, you should speak with your doctor before you start an exercise program -- especially if you have any pre-existing health conditions, symptoms or general concerns. MayoClinic.com advises that before beginning an exercise program, you consult with your physician if there are additional life factors that may affect your health, such as if you smoke or have recently stopped smoking; if you’re overweight; if you haven't exercised in the past three months; or if you are a man older than age 45 or a woman older than 55.