Any activity, if done at least 30 minutes a day over the course of most days, can help. Look on page 15 for ideas to get you moving. Certain forms of activity are best for conditioning your heart and lungs. Examples include brisk walking, swimming, bicycling, and running. The activity should be done for at least 30 minutes, three or four times a week.
Many people are able to start an activity without seeing a doctor first.
However, before beginning an activity, check with a doctor if you are taking high blood pressure medicine, have heart disease, have had a heart attack or a stroke, or have any other serious health problem. Otherwise, get out and get active. Start slowly, if necessary, and work up to a comfortable pace and schedule. You may want to start doing an activity only twice a week. Then build to three or four times a week.