The Optimal Dose of Exercise

Abstract

Habitual physical activity and exercise training are part of a healthy lifestyle. Regular performance of physical activities is known to reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Therefore, exercise prescription is an important component of primary and secondary prevention strategies. This chapter will discuss in detail the association between physical activity, exercise training and associated health outcomes. First, physical activity definitions and measurements will be discussed. Second, historical perspectives and a summary of current physical activity guidelines will be provided. The subsequent sections of this chapter will discuss the minimal, optimal and potential harmful dose of exercise to induce risk reductions in all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. The final section will cover physical activity prescription in clinical practice.