Exercise vs Physical Activity

Exercise and physical activity are sometimes used interchangeably, but exercise is really a type of physical activity. Physical activity is the movement throughout your daily life. This can include chores around the house like cleaning and vacuuming, walking to the mailbox, yard work, walking the dog, work tasks, etc. Typically these activities are at a lower level and aren’t getting your heart rate up or challenging your strength. They also aren’t structured to improve your endurance, strength, or power in a progressive pattern over time. Exercise is more structured and includes sports, lifting weights, running, biking, etc. Exercise is generally more intense and will challenge your cardiovascular system and musculoskeletal system. If structured well, exercise will improve endurance, strength, power, and other attributes over time. Exercise is intended to be challenging and progress in intensity over time to improve your fitness. Exercise is also more specific based on your goal. Longer duration endurance exercise like running or biking will improve your cardiovascular system, whereas lifting weights will improve your strength. Exercise can also be used to rehab from pain or injury or improve your balance and function. 

Both physical activity and exercise are important for health. You should aim to include both in your daily routine. Exercising 30-60 minutes per day with a variety of strength and endurance activities is a good way to maintain strength, muscle mass, cardiovascular health, VO2 max, and bone density. Physical activity is part of a healthy lifestyle because it can be done at your leisure and there are many enjoyable ways to incorporate it into your life.