Physical fitness programs for adults

The sedentary habits, occupational stresses and high caloric intake of adults have spurred an interest in physical exercise. Participation in some form of physical activity is necessary to maintain acceptable levels of muscular strength, range of motion of the joints, and endurance. Ideally, each person over the age of 35 years should have a progressive exercise test administered by a physician before undertaking an exercise program. An exercise prescription must take into account the type of activity, intensity of training, frequency of participation and duration of each exercise session. Both an understanding of exercise physiology and a knowledge of exercise programs are essential to sound patient counseling and management.