![A woman and a young girl walk down a dirt path through a wooded area with some young kids behind them in the distance.](https://today.tamu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20230725_Camp_Millican_MM_607-350x233.jpg)
Health practitioners and fitness buffs have long known that regular physical activity offers numerous health benefits, including the prevention of chronic conditions such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, some cancers and osteoporosis.
In addition, exercise enhances immune function and pain control, reduces fall risk and extends life expectancy. Mental health benefits include improved mood, reduced anxiety and decreased risk of dementia and depression.
Despite all these benefits, more than three out of four adults in the United States get far less exercise than the recommended 150 to 300 minutes a week of moderate physical activity or 75 to 150 minutes a week of vigorous physical activity.
![A mountain bike rider on a trail in the desert.](https://today.tamu.edu/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/20221207_West_Texas_MM_025-350x233.jpg)