How Much Exercise Is Enough?

Bill Schantz spends most of his work day as CEO and owner of Mid-Atlantic Financial, LLC-based in Maple Shade, New Jersey. As a member of his High School's athletic hall of fame and ex college player Schantz believes in staying physically active. Outside of managing Mid-Atlantic Financial, LLC, Bill Schantz stays physically fit by heading to the gym on a regular basis.

According to the Department of Health and Human Services, physical fitness needs change throughout life. Young children under five require at least three hours of Exercise, which can be received through play, and children between the ages of six and 17 require at least an hour of vigorous exercise.

However, the requirements for adults change and are dependent one factor. Typically, adults only need 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity and only 75 minutes of vigorous activity a week.

Moreover, these amounts change depending on the purpose of the physical activity. For those who are using exercise to lose weight, they are going to want to engage in moderate exercise for anywhere between 150 and 250 minutes a week. For those training for a particular sport, these amounts will change significantly depending on the sport.

Finally, the intensity and type of workout will also affect how much time a person will need to spend toward achieving fitness goals. Swimming, briskly walking, and mowing the lawn are examples of moderate aerobic activity that might require more time. Alternatively, running and dancing qualify as vigorous activity that can be done in shorter intervals.

Experts also advise including strength training as a part of any fitness program. Exercises that isolate major muscle groups should be done at 12 to 15 repetitions a set.