Why exercise and physical activity are different

Although exercise and physical activity are used interchangeably, they are not the same thing.

Physical activity is defined as body movements produced by the contractions of skeletal muscles that increases the energy expenditure above the basal level. In other words, physical activity is any movement that makes your muscles work harder than their resting levels. For example, you’re sitting down and you stand up. Physical activity. Walking to work. Physical Activity. Vacuuming the house. Physical Activity. It’s easy. But let’s talk about exercise and why it’s different from physical activity.

Exercise is a sub category of physical activity and is planned and structured action that is purposefully designed to improve physical fitness levels. Your level of fitness is constantly changing and should be improving based on your exercise. In order to gain a better level of fitness, your exercise should challenge you. Have you ever found yourself in a plateau where you can’t seem to lose weight/ inches/ see any improvement? Modify your exercise to challenge your body and target other areas.

Try something new! A great way to increase your cardiovascular fitness is to swim, run, bike or jump rope. You’re pushing your body to step it up and work a little harder by doing so. Add weights to your workout and test your strength and fitness levels. Keep track of your workout by using a heart rate monitor. See how hard you are pushing your ticker and figure out where you want to be to reach the optimal level.

Focus on setting goals and accomplishing them with exercise. Keep physical activity in your life but  branch out and do something different. Your body will recognize this and ultimately work harder, reaping more results.

The more you know, Latinas!