exercise

The word “exercise” means physical activity done to improve fitness or health. In plain terms, physical activity for fitness, a practice task for a skill, or using a right or option you have.

“Exercise” is pronounced EHK-suh-syz (/ˈɛk.sɚ.saɪz/ in IPA).

Here is “exercise” used in a sentence: “Regular exercise helps lower blood pressure.”

Depending on how it is used, “exercise” can be a noun and a verb.

The word “exercise” comes from Latin. From Old French exercise, from Latin exercitium, from exercere, "to keep busy, train.".

“Exercise” is a very common word in modern English, usually learned at around the A1 level.

“Exercise” has 4 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: physical activity done to improve fitness or health.

Exercise is usually grouped into four types: aerobic or cardio (running, cycling, swimming) that trains the heart and lungs; strength or resistance work (weights, push-ups) that builds muscle; flexibility exercise (stretching, yoga); and balance training. A well-rounded routine combines all four to improve overall fitness and reduce injury.

Regular exercise strengthens the heart, muscles, and bones, helps control weight, and lowers the risk of conditions like heart disease and diabetes. It also boosts mood by releasing endorphins, improves sleep, and sharpens focus. Beyond the physical benefits, staying active is one of the most reliable ways to support long-term mental and physical health.

Physical activity is any bodily movement that burns energy — walking to work, cleaning, gardening. Exercise is a subset of that: activity done deliberately and repeatedly to improve fitness or health, like a jog or a gym session. All exercise is physical activity, but not all physical activity counts as exercise.