The amount of time you should spend exercising depends on many factors like how old you are, what health conditions you have, and pregnancy status.
Children between 3 and 5 years old: While there is no set amount of time children this age should be exercising, parents and caregivers should be encouraging active play as much as possible. This can range from playing catch to doing activities that involve running.
Children between 6 and 17 years old: Kids in this age range should be getting at least an hour of physical activity each day. This should include activities like running or walking and activities like climbing or push-ups.
Adults between 18 and 64 years old: Adults need less physical activity than children but should still aim for at least 150 minutes (or two-and-a-half hours) of physical activity a week. Activities for adults this age should include muscle strengthening activities like lifting weights and activities like walking or jogging.
Adults 65 and older: Adults this age should also aim for at least 150 minutes of physical activity a week. Along with activities like weight training, walking, and jogging, adults in this age range should also include activities that improve balance, like standing on one foot.
Adults with chronic health conditions: Adults with conditions and disabilities like hypertension, diabetes, history of stroke, and cognitive disorders should still be aiming for 150 minutes of physical activity a week. Many exercises can be adapted to fit individual needs.
Those who are pregnant or postpartum: If you are pregnant or postpartum, be sure to talk to your doctor who can help you adjust your physical activity. However, if you are experiencing a healthy pregnancy or postpartum period, you should still be aiming for 150 minutes of exercise per week.
