Are You Really Getting Enough Exercise?

Though many recognize the importance of exercise, a recent study conducted by researchers from the School of Kinesiology and Health Science at York University in Canada shows that some may underestimate how much they actually need.

According to study findings, published in the journal PLOS ONE, researchers discovered that many also overrate the exercise intensity levels they actually participate in.

"Our study findings suggest that the majority of young and middle-aged to old adults underestimate the intensity of physical activity that is required to achieve health benefits," said Professor Jennifer Kuk, School of Kinesiology and Health Science. "This is worrisome both for personal and public health and well-being."

For this study conducted at the university, researchers recruited 129 adults between the ages of 18 and 64, all of whom were considered sedentary. The participants were instructed to exercise on a treadmill, and were required to input the speeds that they believed would translate over to light, moderate and vigorous intensity levels.

Findings revealed that most of the time, people tended to overrate their exercise levels. For instance, many believed they would be performing vigorous physical activity when they would be involved in more moderate levels.

Just to be sure, for yourself, the nation's exercise guidelines state that heart rate levels for moderate and vigorous intensity should be 64 to 76 percent and 77 to 83 percent of the maximum heart rate, respectively. 

Unfortunately, when many overrate their exercise levels, they end up not doing enough of a workout to get the best health benefits. The study's findings suggest that people need to be better educated and informed about just how much exercise they are really doing.