Physical Health
What is Physical Activity ?
The National Library of Medicine defines physical activity as, “any bodily movement produced by skeletal muscles that results in energy expenditure" (Caspersen et al., 1985). Physical activity can range anywhere from everyday activities to active hobbies. Everyday examples include walking and housework. Active hobbies include yoga and hiking.
Different Kinds of Activities (Moderate, Vigorous, and Muscle Strengthening)
Physical activity can be categorized into 2 categories moderate or vigorous.
When it comes to being physically active you can do:
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Moderate intensity workouts: 150 minutes per week
Or
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Vigorous intensity workouts: 75 minutes per week
Moderate Physical Activities
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Brisk walk
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Dancing
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Hiking
Vigorous Physical Activities
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Running
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Swimming
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Biking
Muscle Strengthening Activities
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Yoga
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Lifting Weights
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Pilates
(Physical Activity Guidelines for Adults Aged 19 to 64, 2022)
Physical activity can significantly impact the mental health and academic performance of college students. An experimental study done by Stanford University suggests that financial incentives encouraged students to participate in on-campus sports and exercises improved their grades by 0.14 standard deviations (Fricke et al., 2017). The same research suggests that students can integrate studying and exercising, which may enhance the effectiveness of studying (Fricke et al., 2017).
Create mindful habits with our meditation challenges that will keep you on track and focused.
