Integrating Exercise into Everyday Life: Advice from Direct Primary Care Physicians

Exercise looks different for everyone. For some, it’s early morning runs or lifting weights at the gym. For others, it’s evening walks with the family, yoga at home, or finding ways to move during a busy workday. The common thread? Staying active plays a vital role in long-term health, and your doctor can help guide what’s right for you.

Why Primary Care Physicians Talk About Exercise

You might wonder, why primary care physician visits so often include conversations about movement. Simply put, exercise is preventive medicine. It reduces the risk of chronic disease, helps regulate weight, improves sleep, and even supports mental well-being.

With direct primary care, your physician can go beyond generic advice and provide exercise tips from doctors that fit your health goals, lifestyle, and any conditions you may be managing.

Doctor-Recommended Ways to Stay Active

Whether you enjoy structured workouts or prefer flexible options, there are many ways to build activity into daily life:

• Gym sessions or fitness classes – Great for strength, endurance, and accountability.
  
  
• Walking breaks or active commuting – Easy to blend into a busy schedule.
  
  
• Home-based exercises – Yoga, stretching, or bodyweight moves.
  
  
• Family activities – Hiking, biking, or even yard work.
  

The key isn’t choosing one “best” option, it’s finding what keeps you moving consistently.

How Much Exercise Do Adults Need?

In general, the recommended exercise per week for adults is about 150 minutes of moderate activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity. That could be three to four 30-45 minute gym sessions, daily brisk walks, or a mix of both. Your physician can help tailor this guidance based on your age, medical history, and goals.

Diet and Exercise for Weight Management

When it comes to diet and exercise recommendations for weight loss, balance is essential. Pairing physical activity with mindful eating habits, like focusing on whole foods, limiting added sugars, and managing portions, leads to more sustainable results than either approach alone.

Making It Personal

Exercise doesn’t follow a one-size-fits-all path. What matters most is aligning movement with your health goals and daily routine. Whether that means a structured fitness plan, lifestyle adjustments, or condition-specific diabetes exercise recommendations, ongoing guidance from your physician ensures you’re on the right track.

Burkhart Direct Family Care: Your Partner in Long-Term Wellness

At Burkhart Direct Family Care, we see exercise as part of a bigger picture, your complete health. With more time for meaningful conversations, our physicians can provide personalized support, keep you accountable, and help you take steady steps toward better health.

If you’re looking for a care partner who makes room for these conversations, we’d love to welcome you into our community.