ACSM’s physical activity recommendations for healthy adults, updated in 2011, recommend at least 30 minutes
of moderate-intensity physical activity (working hard enough to break a sweat, but still able to carry on a
conversation) five days per week, or 20 minutes of more vigorous activity three days per week. Combinations
of moderate- and vigorous-intensity activity can be performed to meet this recommendation.
Examples of typical aerobic exercises are:
• Walking
• Running
• Stair climbing
• Cycling
• Rowing
• Cross-country skiing
• Swimming
In addition, strength training should be performed a minimum of two days each week, with 8-12 repetitions of 8-10 different exercises that target all major muscle groups. This type of training can be accomplished using body weight, resistance bands, free weights, medicine balls or weight machines