Regular exercise helps maintain general health and is beneficial for the heart, lungs, bones, and sense of well-being for most individuals. Before embarking on an exercise program, it is important to check with your doctor. It is important that you are adequately prepared for the activities you plan to pursue. This includes use of proper apparel and gear and adherence to safety standards.

A good exercise routine includes aerobic, stretching, strengthening, and weight-bearing activities. General exercise recommendations are as follows:

• Adults: At least 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week OR at least 75 minutes of vigorous intensity per week (or some equivalent combination of these 2 intensity levels). Also at least 2 days a week of strength training, including resistance, strength-building, and weight-bearing exercises.This excercise can be done in increments of as little as 10 minutes at a time if desired. If you are trying to lose weight, you may need additional exercise.
• Children/Teenagers: At least 60 minutes of moderate (or vigorous or some combination of these 2 intensity levels) intensity exercise every day. This 60 minutes should include muscle strengthening on at least 3 days a week and bone strengthening (like jumping jacks or running) on at least 3 days a week.
• Pregnant women, breastfeeding women, older adults, and individuals with physical limitations: Check with your doctor.