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What are the Different Types of Physical Activity Guidelines?

Patti Kate
Patti Kate

Physical activity guidelines set by the United States government have been established to help Americans of all ages maintain a healthy level of physical activity. These guidelines vary, taking into account age and physical condition. For instance, physical activity guidelines differ for children, adults, and senior citizens. There are also physical activity guidelines for pregnant women and for individuals who are physically disabled.

One of the important physical activity guidelines describes how much activity children should get. School-aged children and adolescents should aim for at least 60 minutes of physical activity a day to achieve maximum benefits. It's recommended that children incorporate cardiovascular, or aerobic exercises, with techniques to strengthen muscles. For children with physical disabilities or chronic disease, guidelines may differ.

Hiking through terrain that includes rising inclines is a commonly prescribed physical activity.
Hiking through terrain that includes rising inclines is a commonly prescribed physical activity.

Recommended activities for children include hiking, bicycle riding, and skating. Brisk walking may also be considered beneficial for active children, if done in conjunction with other weekly activities. Jumping rope, playing active games such as hopscotch, and running are also beneficial for children. Organized sports such as baseball and hockey are other choices that can help children stay fit and healthy.

Children can benefit physically from learning to play hockey.
Children can benefit physically from learning to play hockey.

Physical activity guidelines for adults age 18 to 64 are designed to thwart the development of heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions. The guidelines suggest moderate physical activity of at least two and a half hours per week for both men and women. Adults with diabetes or cancer may have different guidelines to follow in a physical fitness program. Pregnant women and people recovering from surgery should follow a different set of physical activity guidelines.

Pregnant women have a different set of physical activity guidelines than the average male or female.
Pregnant women have a different set of physical activity guidelines than the average male or female.

Adults older than 65 should follow physical activity guidelines designed for the needs of aging people. These guidelines are generally the same for active adults 18 to 64, with the exception of seniors who have chronic illnesses. Some of the recommended activities for active and older adults who have no chronic illnesses are dancing and walking. Swimming, tennis, and golf are other sports that can increase fitness levels in active adults.

Walking is often recommended for senior citizens.
Walking is often recommended for senior citizens.

Regardless of a person's age or physical limitations, people should consult with a health care provider before beginning an exercise program. A physician or therapist can offer guidance and suggestions regarding physical activities best suited for individual needs. This is especially important for those with disabilities or for adults who have been living an inactive or sedentary lifestyle.

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    • Hiking through terrain that includes rising inclines is a commonly prescribed physical activity.
      By: Dudarev Mikhail
      Hiking through terrain that includes rising inclines is a commonly prescribed physical activity.
    • Children can benefit physically from learning to play hockey.
      By: Sergey Panychev
      Children can benefit physically from learning to play hockey.
    • Pregnant women have a different set of physical activity guidelines than the average male or female.
      By: LanaK
      Pregnant women have a different set of physical activity guidelines than the average male or female.
    • Walking is often recommended for senior citizens.
      By: Paul Maguire
      Walking is often recommended for senior citizens.
    • In addition to physical activity, older adults should maintain their cognitive health by doing puzzles that exercise the brain.
      By: Monkey Business
      In addition to physical activity, older adults should maintain their cognitive health by doing puzzles that exercise the brain.
    • People over age 65 are recommended to discuss a new exercise program with their doctors.
      By: Lisa F. Young
      People over age 65 are recommended to discuss a new exercise program with their doctors.