Regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do
for your health. Being physically active can improve your brain health,
help manage weight, reduce the risk of disease, strengthen bones and
muscles, and improve your ability to do everyday activities. Adults who
sit less and do any amount of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity gain
some health benefits. Only a few lifestyle choices have as large an impact
on your health as physical activity. Everyone can experience the health
benefits of physical activity – age, abilities, ethnicity, shape, or size
do not matter.
Some benefits of physical activity on brain health happen right after a
session of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity. Benefits include
improved thinking or cognition for children 6 to 13 years of age and
reduced short-term feelings of anxiety for adults. Regular physical
activity can help keep your thinking, learning, and judgment skills sharp
as you age. It can also reduce your risk of depression and anxiety and
help you sleep better.