How often should adults engage in moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity for health benefits?

Engaging in moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity for 150 minutes per week is recommended for adults to achieve significant health benefits. This level of activity can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases, improve cardiovascular health, enhance mental well-being, and contribute to maintaining a healthy weight. The guideline of 150 minutes per week is based on extensive research that demonstrates health improvements associated with this amount of physical activity, which can be broken down into manageable sessions. For instance, individuals might choose to engage in 30 minutes of moderate exercise five times a week, making it easier to integrate this recommendation into their daily routines.

Other choices do not align with the established guidelines for physical activity. For example, 30 minutes once a week does not provide sufficient duration for health benefits, while 60 minutes daily may exceed what is necessary for many adults, potentially leading to burnout or injury for some individuals. Lastly, 120 minutes biweekly does not fulfill the minimum recommended amount that is typically suggested for optimal health outcomes. Thus, the correct recommendation emphasizes consistency over time, making 150 minutes per week the most effective approach for health promotion.