Are Physical Activity and Exercise the Same Thing?

Physical activity and exercise are terms that are often used interchangeably, but they actually refer to different concepts. Physical activity is any movement that involves the contraction of your muscles. All of the activities we do throughout the day that involve movement — such as walking, gardening, and climbing stairs — are examples of physical activity. Exercise, on the other hand, is a type of physical activity that is planned, structured, and repetitive with the objective of improving or maintaining one or more components of physical fitness. 

Here's a simple way to differentiate the two: physical activity encompasses all movement that increases energy use, whereas exercise is purposeful, planned physical activity aimed at achieving fitness goals, and is a subset of physical activity. 

The distinction is important because while all exercise is physical activity, not all physical activity is exercise. Exercise is a deliberate activity aimed at improving physical fitness and health, such as jogging, swimming, or lifting weights. Physical activity includes exercise as well as other activities which involve bodily movement and are done as part of playing, working, active transportation, house chores, and recreational activities.

Incorporating both general physical activity and structured exercise into your daily routine can contribute to numerous health benefits, such as improved heart health, increased strength and endurance, better balance and flexibility, weight management, and improved mental health and mood. 

For optimal health, it's recommended that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity each week, along with muscle-strengthening activities on 2 or more days a week. 

What are Structured Exercises?

Structured exercises are those that are planned, organized, and repetitive, aiming to improve specific areas of physical fitness. Examples of structured exercises include:

1. Cardiovascular Training: Activities like running, walking, cycling, swimming, rowing, and elliptical workouts that increase heart rate and endurance.

2. Strength Training: Exercises such as weight lifting, bodyweight exercises (like push-ups and pull-ups), and resistance band workouts that focus on building muscle strength and mass.

3. Flexibility Training: Practices like yoga, Pilates, and stretching routines that enhance the range of motion of muscles and joints.

4. Neuromotor Training: Activities that improve balance, agility, coordination, and gait, such as tai chi or functional fitness drills.

Each type of structured exercise targets different aspects of fitness and can be incorporated into a well-rounded exercise program.

Remember, any amount of activity is better than none, and it's important to choose activities that you enjoy and can stick with for the long term. Whether it's a structured exercise program or physical activity incorporated into your daily life, moving more is beneficial for everyone.