The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services released the new Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, developed by a 13-member advisory committee. Two and a half hours of moderate exercise a week helped adults reduce their risk of coronary heart disease, depression, stroke, high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and colon and breast cancer, while older adults can improve their thinking ability. For adults, moderate exercise includes brisk walking, ballroom dancing, and general gardening, while vigorous activity includes jogging, swimming laps, or hiking uphill.

(http://www.hhs.gov/news/press/2008pres/10/20081007a.html)