How Much Activity Is Recommended?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends that adults get moderate-intensity physical activity for 30 minutes or more on 5 or more days of the week, or vigorous-intensity physical activity for 20 minutes or more on 3 or more days of the week. However, if you are not currently physically active, it is recommended that you start out slowly. See recommendations based on your current fitness level.

What is a Moderate Amount of Physical Activity?

Moderate physical activity can be achieved in a variety of ways. People can select activities that they enjoy and that fit into their daily lives. Because amount of activity is a function of duration, intensity and frequency, the same amount of activity can be obtained in longer sessions of moderately intense activities (such as brisk walking) as in shorter sessions of more strenuous activities (such as running). Learn more about intensity levels of your favorite activities.

For other ways to gauge the intensity of your activities check out the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Web site.