what is physical activity Physical activity simply means movement of the body that uses energy. Walking, gardening, briskly pushing a baby stroller, climbing the stairs, playing soccer, or dancing the night away are all good examples of being active. For health benefits, physical activity should be moderate or vigorous intensity. Moderate physical activities include: Walking briskly (about 3½ miles per hour) Bicycling (less than 10 miles per hour) General gardening (raking, trimming shrubs) Dancing Golf (walking and carrying clubs) Water aerobics Canoeing Tennis (doubles) Vigorous physical activities include: Running/jogging (5 miles per hour) Walking very fast (4½ miles per hour) Bicycling (more than 10 miles per hour) Heavy yard work, such as chopping wood Swimming (freestyle laps) Aerobics Basketball (competitive) Tennis (singles) You can choose moderate or vigorous intensity activities, or a mix of both each week. Activities can be consi...