ASVAB · Main Idea and Theme

Read the passage and answer: Regular physical exercise benefits the body in many ways. It strengthens the heart, improves circulation, and helps maintain a healthy weight. Exercise also reduces stress and can improve mood by releasing endorphins. Health experts recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate activity each week. What is the main idea of this passage?

Correct answer

Regular exercise provides a range of physical and mental health benefits

A Exercise releases endorphins
B Regular exercise provides a range of physical and mental health benefits
C People should exercise 150 minutes per week
D Exercise strengthens the heart

Why this is the answer

The main idea is the central point the whole passage supports. Every sentence here describes a benefit of exercise — physical (heart, circulation, weight) and mental (stress, mood) — so the broad statement that 'regular exercise provides a range of physical and mental health benefits' captures the central message. The other choices are true details from the passage but are too narrow to be the main idea; each covers only one point. On main-idea questions, choose the option that the entire passage supports, not a single supporting detail.

Source: ASVAB Paragraph Comprehension — Main Idea

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