Physical Activities for Health

Physical activities give the body increased oxygen, circulation and muscular firmness and can improve the immune system. A person who keeps physical exercise as part of a regular life program will likely retain vigorous health much longer than someone who is sedentary. A wide range of options awaits those who choose to be physically active. Remember to always have plenty of water along, no matter what physical activity you opt to enjoy.

Walking and Running

• Runing on a beach can be fun.

  Get outdoors for a walk in virtually any weather. Pace yourself according to your abilities. You'll find that in time you are walking further and with more ease. Try to find hiking trails in beautiful settings, as this can take the focus off the exercising aspect. Besides, it's more fun. Walking and running on community or school tracks is a gentle way to approach a regular routine. For those who want more vigorous activity, choose a hilly area. Increase distance over time and alter your routine periodically to prevent boredom. Try to build your speed so as to work your respiratory and circulation system as well as the muscles.

On the Water

• Sailing is a very physical sport, especially when competing.

  Swimming is a great physical activity for overall fitness and health. If you own a deep backyard pool, try doing laps and water aerobics. Check your local listings for neighborhood swimming pools or head to the nearest lake or ocean beach. If you own a boat, get out on the water as often as possible. During sailing, hoisting and trimming the sails require physical skills, but just being on a boat for a long time uses most of the body's muscles for balancing. Other activities for the water include skiing, inner tubing, kayaking and team games like water polo.

Bicycling and Boarding

• Biking is a physical activity that can be done on level ground or into high elevations with more training.

  Skateboarding is not just for young teens. Adults can try it, too. If you have experience with anything requiring good balance, you'll likely do quite well. Boarding can also be done on the snow, as a different challenge from skiing. Start slow and work up to the moguls.

  Take your bicycle out on local bike trails. Find a bike path near a park or coastline and try for longer distances. Your arms and legs will thank you. Go alone or take the family. If you do not own a bicycle, you can usually rent one. Remember to use your helmet and lights.

On the Court

• Tennis requires physical agility as well as mental concentration.

  Basketball, volleyball, tennis and raquetball are games that require physical activity for two of more persons. Your body will stretch, jump, run, bend, torque and turn for however long the game is on. Regular involvement with a team can result in ongoing health -- just watch out for potential injuries. Schools and communities usually have a number of options for finding the perfect court and team for your physical level and goals.