Physical Activity and Health Guidelines

Abstract

Sifting through the numerous guidelines on physical activity and health published by government agencies, professional organizations, and associations can be a daunting task. Physical Activity and Health Guidelines compiles the latest recommendations from various leading sources and organizations into a single text. This one-of-kind resource provides quick reference to physical activity and health recommendations for healthy people and for those with chronic conditions across all age groups. All readers will be able to locate individualized recommendations regarding appropriate levels and types of physical activity. Specific activity recommendations for people with diabetes, asthma, osteoarthritis, and cerebral palsy are detailed in this text. Other guidelines for the prevention of common chronic diseases such as cancer, coronary artery disease, osteoporosis, and metabolic syndrome are also shared. This text also includes: • The components of exercise program design • How physical activity recommendations can help people meet weight-management guidelines • Information on purchasing and using exercise equipment such as treadmills, heart rate monitors, weight training machines, and exercise videos • Guidelines for cardiac testing and other exercise testing to assist in the implementation and evaluation of physical activity programs as well as the assessment of the safety of these programs for people with chronic conditions Recommendations are given for aerobic, resistance, and flexibility training; further specifications regarding the frequency, intensity, duration, and type of activity are included. Physical Activity and Health Guidelines is the first text to gather the wealth of information regarding physical activity, exercise, and health needs and recommendations into a single source. This unique text will help readers understand the requirements for safe and effective physical activity for all people regardless of health conditions, and it offers the basic knowledge and tools for designing and implementing appropriate physical activity programs.