Have you ever wondered what the label would read if fitness could come in a package?  Here is a possibility:

Fitness Facts
Serving Size:  30-60 minutes*
Number of servings per week:  5-7 days
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Calories burned:**           143-286
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Stress levels:                   reduced
Mood:                               elevated 
Body weight:                   decreased or maintained
Blood pressure:               improved/controlled
Cholesterol:                     improved/controlled
Blood sugar:                    improved/controlled
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Ingredients:  All-natural***
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*The 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommends that adults acquire at least 150 minutes (preferably 300 minutes) per week of moderate-intensity exercise.
**values are per serving and are calculated based on a body weight of 150 pounds and a walking speed of 4.0 miles per hour.
***As part of a diet low in saturated fat and cholesterol, walking at least 30 minutes a day may reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, high blood pressure, some cancers, improve cholesterol levels, and/or help to maintain a healthy body weight.

Note:  Before beginning an exercise program or increasing the intensity level of a current routine, a physician's approval should be obtained, especially for older adults and those at risk for or who currently have chronic health conditions.

Resources:
The 2008 Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans

ACSM's Guidelines for Exercise Testing and Prescription, sixth edition

     Exercise has many benefits, some less well-known than others.  Keep this list handy for those times that you need a little motivation to keep moving.

1.  Decreased risk of premature death

2.  Decreased risk of heart attack and stroke

3.  Decreased risk of colon and breast cancer

4.  Decreased risk of metabolic syndrome

5.  Decreased risk and/or management of type II diabetes (adult-onset 

      diabetes)

6.  Decreased risk and/or management of hypertension (high blood 

      pressure)

7.  Decreased risk of osteoporosis

8.  Decreased risk of depression

9.  Improved cholesterol levels, especially high-density lipoproteins 

      ("good" cholesterol)

10.  Improved sleep quality

11.  Improved self-esteem/sense of well-being

12.  Improved energy level

13.  Prevention of falls (through improved balance)

14.  Weight management

15.  Stress management

16.  May suppress hunger

Note:  Before beginning an exercise program or increasing the intensity level of a current routine, a physician's approval should be obtained, especially for older adults and those at risk for or who currently have chronic health conditions.