While many use the terms “physical activity” and “exercise” interchangeably in casual conversation, there is an important distinction between the two when it comes to our health. Understanding the key differences between physical activity vs. exercise not only allows you to communicate accurately with medical professionals. It also aids in building physical routines tailored to improving your cardiovascular health.

At Cardiovascular Institute of the South (CIS), we understand the importance of both physical activity and exercise for heart health. Learn how physical activity and exercise are defined by health experts, explore the types of activities that fall under each category, and discover the cardiovascular benefits you can gain from incorporating both into your lifestyle.