By: Rachel Nannola
With obesity on the rise, it’s important to remember why physical activity is so important. Physical activity helps to control body weight and reduce the risks of various diseases, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and some cancers. Physical activity can also benefit your mental health, mood, and improve your ability to do daily activities.
The physical activity guidelines for Americans recommend that everybody participate in at least 150 minutes per week of mixed aerobic and strength training workouts. The CDC states that only 20 percent of Americans actually reach that exercise recommendation.
Since it has been proven difficult to get Americans moving, a team of organizations has formed an alliance to make a National Physical Activity Plan. These organizations include the American Heart Association, American Cancer Society, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the Department of Health and Human Services. The National Physical Activity Plan includes evidence-based strategies to promote physical activity in various societal sectors such as schools, business, transportation, and community.
Hopefully, with the help of this activity plan and continually educating, Americans we can increase physical activity. It’s also important to remember physical activity can include simple tasks, like gardening, cleaning the house, or walking the dog.
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