Public Transit Users More Physically Active Than Commuters

By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - If you are a commuter you may consider throwing away your keys and trying a train or a bus. Public transit users engage in more overall physical activity and more often meet daily physical activity recommendations than do non-users.

According to an article in The American Journal of Public Health, which studied physical activity and transit use, data from 2008 and 2009, walking prior to and immediately after transit trips is actually quite good for you - and an unexpected form of exercise.

According to the National Travel Diary data, the average American transit user walks 19 minutes per day.

Of course you don't have to take public transit to get exercise. You can drive your car but remember to find time to exercise in your day-to-day activities.