Physical Activity Counseling

Abstract

P hysical inactivity leads to at least 250,000 deaths annually in the United States, 1 and more than one half of Americans fail to meet recommended physical activity levels. 2 Regular physical activity decreases total mortality rates as well as the incidence and mortality of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and some cancers. 3,4 Physical activity improves mental health and control of diabetes, hypertension, and lipid levels; prevents osteoporosis; and, especially in older patients, sustains mobility, reduces disability, and decreases the risk of falls. 3,4 The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, American College of Sports Medicine, U.S. Surgeon General, and American College of Preventive Medicine recommend that adults participate in at least 30 minutes of accumulated moderate-intensity physical activity (i.e., walking fast [3 to 4 miles per hour] or the equivalent) on five or more days of the week. 3-5 The following are key principles for physical activity: (1) the more activity the better, (2) accumulated time is more important than intensity, (3) activity can be accumulated in 10-minute increments, 3-5 and (4) lifestyle activities (e.g., substituting walking or biking for short car rides, using a push rather than a riding lawn mower) are more likely to be sustained than structured activities (e.g., exercising at a gym). 6