Exercise?from gentle stretching to high-intensity training?is not only important for physical health, but Harvard experts are finding benefits for stress, memory, mood, and more.
Professor I-Min Lee says what’s important for health isn’t necessarily physical “exercise,” but physical activity: moving muscles and expending energy however you can.
Making exercise necessary and fun can help us overcome our natural reluctance to work out, says Professor Daniel Lieberman.
Harvard Medical School alum Anita Reddy says increased strength helps with the prevention of arthritis and bone fractures, so it’s important to stay active as we get older.
Exercise plays a key role in the physical and mental wellbeing of people of all ages. Research shows that moderate physical activity can reduce the risk of heart disease, depression, dementia, and several types of cancers.
Explore different types of exercise
Good exercise for people just starting their routine Learn more about this accessible way to stay active
Perfect exercise for people looking for mind and body benefits Learn more about this 5,000-year-old way to stay active
Fun exercise for people wanting to practice their moves
Learn more about staying active to a beat
Great exercise for people without a lot of time Learn more about this quick and powerful way to stay active
People with special considerations
Researchers have found that exercise is not just something that should be practiced by young, healthy individuals. It is also important and beneficial for people with joint issues , people with limited options , people who require low impact , people who are pregnant , and even people who only have time for walking .
At Harvard there are plenty of opportunities to get moving and have fun with exercise. From gym facilities and group classes with Harvard Recreation , to CrimsonZip ‘s workout buddy connections, members of the Harvard community can participate in a wide range of activities (even goat yoga !).
Harvard researchers are discovering all the ways in which exercise improves physical and mental wellbeing .
Learn why exercise may make your grandkids healthier
A study by Massachusetts General Hospital has found that 12-minute exercise bursts demonstrated an uptick in circulating metabolites, which govern insulin resistance, stress, inflammation, and longevity.
You may also like