Physical Activity–Good for your Health Regular physical activity is an important component to lifelong health! Research shows that physical activity has the following health benefits: Control your weight Reduce your risk of cardiovascular disease Reduce your risk for type 2 diabetes and metabolic syndrome Reduce your risk of some cancers Strengthen your bones and muscles Improve your mental health and mood Improve your ability to do daily activities and prevent falls, if you're an older adult Increase your chances of living longer Improve your quality of sleep Current minimum recommendations for physical activity include 2 ½ hours of moderate cardiovascular activity or 1 ¼ hours of vigorous physical activity per week (or a combination of the two). Additionally, engaging in two sessions of strength building exercises (weight training, calisthenics) is recommended to build bone and muscle mass. Adding physical activity to your life If you have health problems, be sure to check with your health provider before beginning an exercise program Enlist the help of a professional. Make an appointment with a Peer Health Educator or Health Educator at the Wellness Center to help you design a program that is right for you. Pick activities that you enjoy. That way you’ll be more likely to stick with them. Be realistic. Start with just 10 minutes and gradually increase the duration of your exercise session. Find a friend, family member, or pet to join you. You’ll be more likely to stick with your routine if you have someone to exercise with. Plan ahead. Schedule your workouts in your calendar so you know you’ll have time to do them. Add exercise to your daily life by walking or bike riding rather than taking the car or the shuttle. The amount of exercise you can get by walking to class or to the store can quickly add up to meeting the minimum amount of recommended exercise per week!

Download a campus walking/jogging map (PDF)