At a basic level, physical activity is movement that occurs when skeletal muscles—the muscles of the arms, legs, hands, feet, back, and neck—contract for a period of at least 60 seconds. Walking your dog (casually), doing yard work or gardening, vacuuming, and carrying boxes up and down the stairs are all examples of physical activity.

Exercise is physical activity that is usually planned and is performed to improve or maintain physical condition. Performing pushups, running or jogging, swimming laps, lifting weights, and dancing vigorously are examples of exercise.

Physical fitness is more than physical activity or exercise alone. Physical fitness is a state of health and well-being characterized by the ability to function effectively without injury. Fitness involves preventing or managing illness, maintaining a healthy weight, and being able to work and play.