5 Exercises for a Healthy Life Recommended by Harvard Medical School

Exercise is an essential element of keeping our bodies and minds in peak health—and it doesn't have to be vigorous—regular, moderate movement is enough.

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While current research has yet to explain why swimming, as an aerobic exercise, enhances cognitive function better than land-based exercise, consistent results have been observed in both animal and human experiments. However, Dr. Zheng stressed that more muscle training is not necessarily better.

The meta-analysis revealed a J-shaped relationship between the duration of muscle-strengthening activities and the maximum risk reduction of all-cause mortality, cardiovascular disease, and total cancer, with the most effective duration being 30 to 60 minutes per week. Exercise does not always involve going to the gym—walking is also a healthy form of exercise. Dr.



Zheng stated that if people do not walk, they are usually sitting or lying down, and this inactivity significantly affects physical and mental health, as well as longevity. Although walking represents only a slight improvement over being sedentary, it is sufficient to activate the core muscles, lower limb muscles, balance coordination, and even cognitive functions. This activation boosts metabolism and cardiovascular function, putting the body into an active mode.

Simply put, getting up and walking is the most fundamental form of activity, and it is highly beneficial for health..