Physical activity, health, and well-being at different life stages

Regular physical activity is important throughout the life cycle, from childhood to old age. In the young child, the main effects are upon attitudes and habit formation. During adolescence, intensity often increases, which results in more physical risks but also counters developing cardiac risk factors. In adult life, benefits shift to the prevention of work loss and premature death from chronic disease. Finally, in old age, exercise conserves function and improves the quality of life.