PA, Exercise, Movement, and Fitness

Physical Activity

Definition

any movement your body does above resting that uses energy. This includes everything from daily tasks to recreational activities. If you’re not sitting or lying down, you’re performing physical activity!

Examples

• Walking to class
• Cleaning
• Gardening
• Non-structured movement

Exercise

Definition

a type of physical activity that is done on purpose to improve or maintain fitness. It is different from general physical activity because it is planned, structured, and often repeated.

Examples

• Setting aside time for a run or walk
• Following a yoga or stretching routine
• Performing a strength training workout
• Playing an organized sport like soccer or basketball

Movement

Definition

any action that gets your body moving. Both physical activity and exercise involve movement. Physical Activity includes all movement, while exercise is purposeful and targets fitnes

All exercise is physical activity, but not all physical activity is exercise!

Physical Fitness

Definition

the body's ability to perform physical activity with ease and minimal fatigue.

Examples

It includes...

• muscular strength & endurance
• endurance
• flexibility

All movement contributes to fitness, but exercise is the most effective way to improve it!