Exercise & Fitness Archive

Walking has long been the most popular form of aerobic exercise among American adults. Though it offers cardiovascular benefits, walking can fall short because it doesn't incorporate other body areas besides the legs. People can power up their walking regimen by using walking poles, alternating walking with high-intensity intervals or resistance exercises, or strapping on a weighted backpack. Listening to music, podcasts, or books on tape can make exercise seem easier.

Mud runs are outdoor team events that take the form of an obstacle-course competition and promise plenty of good, clean (dirt-covered) fun for participants. Competing in a mud race is physically challenging, but can deliver many health benefits for those who  train for them.

If you work out at a gym, you may notice warnings on the exercise equipment. For most of us, these warnings should not be cause for alarm, although people with certain health conditions should be cautious about exercising.

Exercise can lower resting heart rate and raise maximum heart rate to reduce the risk of heart attack and death.

Performing regular biceps curls can build stronger biceps muscles and help older men with lifting, carrying, and holding heavy objects.

Dr. Alan Poisner, 88, is one of the country's most decorated master-level walkers. He holds several National Senior Games records. A medical researcher, he also has a long career exploring the physiology of walking, especially among older adults. Here, he shares his decades-long advice for beginner and novice walkers, from how to stay motivated to the best ways to elevate one's workouts.

It's easy to blame running when a person who runs regularly develops arthritis. But that blame may be misguided. Here's a look at the latest research on the topic.

A variety of coaches can help people reach their particular health goals. Health and wellness coaches inspire and guide clients to shift their mindset and develop new, healthy behaviors. Fitness professionals—such as personal trainers or exercise physiologists—develop and prescribe exercise regimens to help clients. Dietitians develop eating plans tailored to clients’ needs, such as weight loss or gain, or preventing or treating chronic disease. And culinary coaches use coaching principles and cooking expertise to teach people how to shop for and prepare healthy meals.