Numerous studies have confirmed that a brisk walk for 30 minutes each day is adequate exercise for most healthy adults. Two of the most beneficial aspects are increased metabolism and joint flexibility. Equally important, however, are the mental benefits. A daily walk provides a chance to decompress from the stresses of the workday. A change of scenery and fresh air can brighten your mood. Which of the following sentences would be the best topic sentence for the paragraph?

Answer

There are physical and psychological reasons for a daily walk.

Rationale

The paragraph discusses two categories of benefits from a daily walk: physical benefits (increased metabolism and joint flexibility) and mental/psychological benefits (decompressing from stress, mood improvement). A strong topic sentence must preview both main ideas developed in the paragraph, and only option B explicitly captures both the physical and psychological dimensions, making it the best fit as an introductory sentence.

Answer choices

• A. Exercise does not have to be difficult; consider walking.

• B. There are physical and psychological reasons for a daily walk.

  The paragraph discusses two categories of benefits from a daily walk: physical benefits (increased metabolism and joint flexibility) and mental/psychological benefits (decompressing from stress, mood improvement). A strong topic sentence must preview both main ideas developed in the paragraph, and only option B explicitly captures both the physical and psychological dimensions, making it the best fit as an introductory sentence.

• C. If you want to get in shape, the first step is to get moving.

• D. One of the easiest ways to lose inches is to take a walk on a daily basis.