Approaches to physical activity in women.

It is well known that regular, moderate-intensity exercise is beneficial in promoting good health and preventing disease and disability in women; however, high levels of sedentary behavior are observed in women of all races, incomes, and age groups. The determinants of exercise participation in women are poorly understood. Exercise intervention programs should be designed to increase women's general physical activity habits and enhance physical fitness. Exercise programs should include physical activities that are safe and increase gradually in the frequency, intensity, and duration of effort expended over time.