Exercise concept - Definition

The word exercise comes etymologically from the Latin "exercitium", which refers to practicing or exercising or moving, leaving passivity.

Exercise is the implementation of a physical or mental ability, which involves putting into operation certain areas of the body, physical and/or mental, which helps to maintain good health, when it is not excessive.

Physical exercise, based on programmed movements, helps strengthen muscles and bones, improve cardiac activity, lower cholesterol and blood pressure, fight obesity, etc.They can be performed indoors or outdoors., supervised or not, by a coach.Some physical exercises are rehabilitation, to improve the motor function of a member who has suffered an injury; and in other cases they are made to keep fit and healthy.There are strength, speed, flexibility, relaxation, etc.exercises.Some are practiced individually and others in a group.When they are competitive and conform to specific rules, They are called sports.

Mental exercise is any activity that sets in motion our mental apparatus, cognitive structure, moving us to reflect, how to solve math problems, make crosswords, make concept maps, analyze a text, summarize it , etc.It is believed that lack of mental exercise contributes to brain aging; Therefore, it is recommended to practice them throughout life.Physical exercises and sports also contribute to mental exercise, as movements require that you think about them.

Examples: “The teacher gave me to do a series of mathematical exercises that make me think a lot”, “Reading comprehension exercises help me learn to reason”, “My grandmother was recommended to do crossword puzzles, soup letters and other mental exercises to preserve your memory ”or“ Physical coordination exercises require me to exercise my mind too.”

Spiritual exercises are those that move us to achieve inner peace; and it is the title of the book of the Spanish religious, San Ignacio de Loyola, which includes meditations and prayers, to be practiced during the first year of novitiate, with the aim of strengthening the Catholic faith.