Physical Activity vs. Exercise

Physical activity vs. Exercise: Are they the same thing? Although commonly used interchangeably, they do have their differences!

Physical activity is any body movement produced by muscles that requires energy. This includes:

- Household chores such as gardening, making the bed and sweeping the floor

- Work

- Sports and recreation such as yoga, soccer and playing in park

- Active transportation- this includes walking or cycling to work or using the stairs instead of the elevator

Increasing our physical activity can improve pain and joint stiffness while making it easier to complete other daily tasks.

Exercise is a type of physical activity however it is planned, structured and repetitive. Exercise is goal-oriented and aims to improve or maintain our physical fitness. This includes a home, gym or group workout where you complete purposeful movements and keep track of resistance and repetitions.

Do we need both? Including both physical activity and structured exercise in our daily routine has its benefits! Physical activity can provide general health benefits but exercise programs are important to target specific fitness goals such as strength, cardiovascular fitness, coordination, balance and flexibility. Improving these areas of fitness can help to make daily tasks or activities easier and more enjoyable!

What kind of physical activities do you enjoy doing?