Sometimes we use the terms Physical Activity and Exercise interchangeably. Do they really mean the same thing? Not according to the World Health Organization (WHO). To help us optimize our health, WHO released guidelines that can give us a better understanding of how to integrate movement into our daily lives.
Physical Activity is more than just going to the gym. It’s any and all movement of your body that requires the work/energy of your muscles! This can be anywhere from walking to the fridge to choosing to take the stairs over the elevator.
Exercise, however, is planned, structured and purposeful physical activity. The goal of exercise is to increase physical fitness. There are several types of exercise, including aerobic exercise, i.e. cardio activities like walking, jogging, cycling and swimming, etc., and resistance training; repeated movements with added resistance like dumbbells, weight machines, resistance bands etc.
WHO’s position in their new guidelines is that every move counts. We often think of being active as needing to have moderate to high intensity exercise. While exercise is important and the WHO recommends adults should do at least 150–300 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity, it’s good to know that even the smallest activities can improve our health - every move counts. These recommendations have been made for everyone including pregnant and postpartum adults, and those living with chronic conditions.
The bottom line is that physical activity of any type, and any duration can improve everyone’s health and wellbeing. Physical activity can be done as part of work, sport, leisure, or transport (walking, wheeling and cycling), but also through dance, play, and daily household tasks, like gardening and cleaning. There’s a ton of freedom here to find what works for you to get the minutes of activity in and help you feel your best!
Science, Feminism, and Love.
The ONE Group. (2020, April 24). Exercise vs. physical activity. Retrieved 22 January, from PennState College of Medicine.
World Health Organization. (2020, November). Physical activity. Retrieved from World Health Organization.
