HOME JOURNAL HEALTH QUIZ - 6

To maintain your general health, how much exercise do you need?

1. At least 30 minutes a day of moderate physical activity, such as brisk walking, cycling or swimming
2. 60 minutes a day of moderate physical activity
3. Two 60-minute gym classes per week
4. Three 60-minute gym classes per week

You are correct if you answered: At least 30 minutes a day of moderate physical activity, such as brisk walking, cycling or swimming

In 1995, a panel of experts from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American College of Sports Medicine announced that "Every U.S. adult should accumulate thirty minutes or more of moderate-intensity physical activity on most, preferably all, days of the week." That will help control your weight, keep cholesterol levels and diabetes risk low, your mood elevated and energy high.

Going to the gym is fine, but you don't have to huff away for hours on a stairclimber to stay healthy. Instead, expand your concept of exercise; besides walking, biking and swimming, you gain points for household chores such as washing windows and raking leaves.

Unfortunately, according to the CDC's latest report, only about one quarter of Americans log at least 30 minutes of exercise a day. Try turning off the TV for half an hour and getting physical instead.

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