Physical activity: The need of a physician's prescription

Abstract

Healthcare providers are uniquely positioned to influence the sedentary epidemic trend by prescribing physical activity more frequently and more precisely. Specific written exercise prescriptions can increase patient compliance substantially. Methodical physical activity counseling, even for a short duration, will at least to some degree increase the weekly physical activity of previously sedentary patients. Frequency, intensity, timing and type are the key elements of physical activity prescription.