Helps older adults become stronger and better able to move about without falling. Promotes psychological well-being. Given the numerous health benefits of physical activity, the hazards of being inactive are clear. Physical inactivity is a serious, nationwide problem. Its scope poses a public health challenge for reducing the national burden of unnecessary illness and premature death.
People can select activities that they enjoy and that fit into their daily lives.
To avoid soreness and injury, individuals contemplating an increase in physical activity should start out slowly and gradually build up to the desired amount to give the body time to adjust. People with chronic health problems, such as heart disease, diabetes, or obesity, or who are at high risk for these problems should first consult a physician before beginning a new program of physical activity. Also, men over age 40 and women over age 50 who plan to begin a new vigorous physical activity program should consult a physician first to be sure they do not have heart disease or other health problems. More than 60 percent of adults do not achieve the recommended amount of regular physical activity. Inactivity increases with age and is more common among women than men and among those with lower income and less education than among those with higher income or education.