New Research Defines Moderate Exercise

Experts like to tout moderate exercise as a key to good health. But what exactly does it mean to exercise at a moderate level? Researchers set out to tackle that question and released their findings this week.

Moderate physical activity is the same as a brisk walk, or approximately 1,000 steps every 10 minutes. The study found that three 10-minute walks five days a week would be enough to meet exercise guidelines. Current recommendations say you should get at least 2½ hours of moderate exercise each week.

So how can you keep track of how many steps you take? Consider wearing a pedometer, an easy tool that you can clip to your waistband to count each step. Researchers also point out you can measure your walk or workout by intensity. Exercising at a moderate level will boost your breathing and heart rate but you should still be able to make conversation.