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Benefits of an Active Lifestyle

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Nov 3, 2024.

What do I need to know about an active lifestyle?

An active lifestyle means you do physical activity throughout the day. Any activity that gets you up and moving is part of an active lifestyle. Physical activity includes exercise such as walking or lifting weights. It also includes playing sports. Physical activity is different from other kinds of activity, such as reading a book. This kind of activity is called sedentary. A sedentary lifestyle means you sit or do not move much during the day. An active lifestyle has many benefits, such as helping you prevent or manage health conditions.

What are the benefits of an active lifestyle?

What are the risks of a sedentary lifestyle?

A sedentary lifestyle increases your risk for diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease. Your immune system also becomes weaker. This means it cannot fight infections well.

How much activity do I need?

Any activity is better than no activity at all. When you go from being mostly inactive to adding some activity, you will see health benefits. The following are general guidelines:

What steps can I take to become more active?

What are some tips to help me stay on track?

What do I need to know about nutrition and activity?

Healthy foods will give you the energy you need to be active. Activity and good nutrition work together to help you reach or maintain a healthy weight. Healthy foods include fruits, vegetables, lean meats, fish, cooked beans, whole-grain breads, and low-fat dairy products. Your healthcare provider can help you create a healthy meal plan. He or she can tell you how many calories you need to stay active and still lose weight if needed.

Healthy Foods

When should I call my doctor?

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.