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Gardening as Exercise: Benefits and Insights

Gardening and yard work offer significant health benefits, contributing to daily exercise goals and improving cardiovascular health, muscle strength, and mental well-being.

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Greece

HealthLifestyleWellbeingFitnessActivity

Harvard Medical SchoolThe Lancet Planetary Health

Dr. I-Min Lee

How much does gardening contribute to daily exercise?: Gardening and yard work can contribute significantly to your daily exercise goals, often exceeding expectations. Many outdoor chores qualify as moderate-intensity exercise, meeting guidelines for weekly physical activity.
What is the key takeaway regarding the best type of exercise?: The best exercise is one you enjoy and can stick with. If you enjoy gardening and yard work, it is a great way to meet fitness goals and improve cardiovascular health.
What is a metabolic equivalent (MET) and how does it relate to gardening?: A metabolic equivalent (MET) measures the oxygen used during an activity. Activities requiring 3-5.9 METs are considered moderate intensity, and many gardening tasks fall into this category.
What did a recent study reveal about the impact of community gardening on health?: A 2023 study in The Lancet Planetary Health showed that community gardening increased physical activity by about 42 minutes weekly, boosted fiber intake by 7%, and reduced stress and anxiety among participants.
What are the additional health benefits of yard work beyond cardiovascular health?: Beyond cardiovascular benefits, yard work strengthens various muscle groups in the legs, arms, and core, fulfilling recommendations for muscle-strengthening activities. The risk of injury is also lower compared to higher-impact exercises.

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