Exercise Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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exercise
[ˈɛksərˌsaɪz ]
Definitions
physical activity
Activity requiring physical effort, carried out to sustain or improve health and fitness.
Synonyms
activity, physical activity, training, workout.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| exercise |
General term for any physical activity done to improve health or maintain fitness.
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| workout |
More informal term for a session of exercise, often used in the context of gym routines.
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| training |
Structured and repetitive practice aimed at improving specific skills or physical capabilities.
|
| activity |
Broad term that can refer to any kind of action or task, not limited to physical movements.
|
| physical activity |
Any bodily movement produced by muscles that requires energy expenditure, often used in a health or medical context.
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Examples of usage
- She does regular exercise to keep fit.
- He enjoys going for a run as his daily exercise.
physical activity
Engage in physical activity to sustain or improve health and fitness.
Synonyms
get in shape, train, work out, work up.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| exercise |
General term for physical activity that improves health and fitness.
|
| work out |
Casual term commonly used to describe regular exercise or going to the gym.
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| train |
Focused physical activity with a specific goal, often in preparation for an event or competition.
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| work up |
Commonly used in the phrase 'work up a sweat', meaning to engage in physical activity to the point of sweating.
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| get in shape |
Used when the goal is to improve overall physical condition or fitness, often after a period of inactivity.
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Examples of usage
- She exercises for an hour every morning.
- He exercises at the gym three times a week.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The word originated from the Latin 'exercitium,' meaning 'to keep busy or to train.'
- In Ancient Greece, physical fitness was crucial for citizenship, and men participated in sports to prepare for war.
- The first gymnasiums appeared in Greece around 300 BC, where people would exercise to train for the Olympics.
Health Benefits
- Regular physical activity can reduce the risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease and diabetes.
- Exercise releases endorphins, chemicals in your brain that help reduce stress and boost your mood.
- Engaging in exercise can improve your sleep quality, making you feel more rested and energized.
Cultural Practices
- Different cultures have unique traditional exercises, like Tai Chi in China or Capoeira in Brazil, blending martial arts with dance.
- The concept of yoga combines physical exercise with spiritual and mental practices, originating in ancient India.
- In many cultures, dance is a form of exercise that also serves as a way to express emotions and stories.
Scientific Insights
- Studies show that engaging in regular exercise can improve cognitive function and memory.
- Exercise increases blood circulation, which helps nourish your brain and enhance learning capacity.
- Research indicates that just 30 minutes of moderate exercise a few times a week can significantly improve your overall health.
Pop Culture
- '80s fitness guru Jane Fonda popularized home workout videos, making exercise accessible to everyone.
- Social media platforms have given rise to fitness influencers who share exercise routines and healthy living tips.
- Movies like 'Rocky' and 'A Walk to Remember' highlight the power of determination and physical training in achieving personal goals.
Origin of 'exercise'
The word 'exercise' originated from the Latin word 'exercitus', which means 'trained, drilled'. It was first used in the 14th century to refer to physical or mental exertion. Over time, the term evolved to specifically describe physical activity done to improve health and fitness.
See also: exert, exerting, exertion, exertiveness, overexert, overexertion.