The role of exercise : clinical

Lack of physical activity results in overweight and unfit people. People generally ask their healthcare practitioner for advice on diet and exercise in order to look better. Regular physical activity contributes to overall wellbeing and not simply to improved appearance. Total physical fitness results in improved muscle strength, improved muscle resistance, flexibility and cardiovascular fitness. This can be achieved by exercising for at least 30 minutes for a minimum of 3 times a week. Cycling, swimming, walking and running are excellent forms of exercise because they use the large muscle groups. People should aim to exercise at 70 - 80% of their maximum heart rate (calculated as 220 minus age - unless on rate-reducing cardiovascular drugs).