It looks like fun being weightless in space but itβs actually not great for the human body.
Prolonged exposure to microgravity leads to muscle and bone loss, the weakening of the heart muscles and changes in the way the body retains water.
Astronauts follow strict exercise routines on the International Space Station (ISS) β from aerobic exercises, resistance training to specialised equipment like the Advanced Resistive Exercise Device and treadmill.
It can be a challenge to exercise in the confined space, so engineers try to design equipment that works with whatβs available.
Exercise is also good for mental health – something that can be put under pressure on space missions which can be both stressful and boring at times.