Exercise & Fitness Archive

People who ate healthy plant-based foods had a 10% reduction in stroke risk, compared with people who ate unhealthy plant-based foods, according to a Harvard study published online March 10, 2021, by the journal Neurology.

Women often skip muscle-building activities, but they're crucial to your long-term health and independence.

If you're like most American adults who work out regularly, you may squeeze in a daily walk or a quick run, or take a Zumba or aerobics class. But strength-training exercises usually don't make the list.

A 2018 study published in the American Journal of Preventive Medicine found that only about 30% of American adults ages 18 to 80 are doing strength training twice a week, as recommended. And almost 58% of those surveyed said they did none.

Whether you're new to walking or a seasoned stroller, here are some ways to boost your routines.

Walking is one of the most straightforward exercises. You just need a good pair of walking shoes, and off you go.

Like any kind of cardio activity, walking can improve your heart health, strengthen your immune system, and help you manage your weight.

Whether you're an exercise novice or a gym regular, these tips can help you get the most out of your workout.

When it comes to exercise, timing is everything — but not in the way we normally think about timing. What matters most is making the time to exercise regularly, not when it happens. That said, your personal experience and specific goals may influence what workout schedule works best for you.

"If you're just starting a physical activity routine, any time that you feel motivated and energized enough to exercise is the best time for you," says Dr. Beth Frates, clinical assistant professor of physical medicine and rehabilitation at Harvard Medical School. For some people, that's in the morning; for others, the afternoon works better. But if you can work out with a friend, choose a time that works best for both of you, she suggests. Teaming up with an exercise buddy is more enjoyable, and you can hold each other accountable.