Moderate aerobic exercise includes activities such as brisk walking, biking, swimming and mowing the lawn. Vigorous aerobic exercise includes activities such as running, swimming laps, heavy yard work and aerobic dancing. You can do strength training by using weight machines or weights, your own body weight, heavy bags or resistance bands.

Understanding the Context

Both are important. Diet affects weight loss more than physical activity does. Physical activity, including exercise, has a stronger effect in keeping weight from coming back after weight loss. Losing weight with diet alone and without physical activity can make people weaker.

Key Insights

This is because of age-related losses in bone density and muscle mass. It's easy to say that you'll exercise every day. But you'll need a plan. As you design your fitness program, keep these points in mind: Think about your fitness goals. Are you starting a fitness program to help lose weight?

Final Thoughts

Or do you have another reason, such as training for a marathon? Having clear goals can help you measure your progress and stay motivated. Make a balanced routine. Get at ... Exercise helps prevent and improve many health problems, including high blood pressure, diabetes and arthritis. Research on depression, anxiety and exercise shows that the mental health and physical benefits of exercise also can help mood get better and lessen anxiety.

The links between depression, anxiety and exercise aren't entirely clear. Aerobic exercise Exercise that raises the heart rate, known as aerobic exercise, helps with overall fitness. Aerobic exercise can improve heart and lung health, help manage weight and increase energy. Examples of aerobic exercises that are low impact and easy on joints include walking, bicycling, swimming and water aerobics.