Multicomponent Exercise: A Non-pharmaceutical Intervention for a Healthier and Long Life

Physical activity refers to any activity performed that expends energy more than I metabolic equivalent (MET). Sedentary behavior is typically referred to as an energy expenditure of fewer than 1.5 METS. Exercise on the other hand, although being a part of PA. is a planned, repetitive, and purposive workout. It results in an expenditure of more than 1.5 METS. Light-intensity activities expend less than 3 METs, moderate-intensity activities expend 3 to 6 METs, while vigorous activities expend 6 or more METs. Most major professional societies in the world provide guidelines for exercise. For most adults, these entail spending about 150 min per week of moderate to high-intensity aerobic exercise and performing resistance workouts 2 days a week. The benefits of this regimen involve virtually every bodily system. Exercise results in a decrease in morbidity and mortality from most major non-communicable diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes mellitus, and cancer. Further, there is a significant increase in healthy lifespan. This manuscript briefly reviews the benefits accruing from following a recommended exercise program. A discussion about the possible side effects is also included.