In The News

Posted May 1, 2016

 

May is National Physical Fitness and Sports Month

We are proud to support and encourage National Physical Fitness and Sports Month. During the month of May, we challenge all adults to get 30 minutes of physical activity every day.

Did you know that regular physical activity increases your chances of living a longer, healthier life? It also reduces your risk for high blood pressure, heart disease, and some types of cancer. Yet many people don’t get the recommended amount of physical activity.

The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommend that adults:
 

• Aim for 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week. Moderate activity includes things like walking fast, dancing, swimming and raking leaves.

• Do muscle-strengthening activities – like lifting weights or using exercise bands – at least 2 days a week.

Physical activity is for everyone. No matter what shape you are in, you can find activities that work for you. Together, we can rise to the challenge and get more active during the month of May and beyond!

Regular physical activity is good for everyone’s health, and people of all ages and body types can be physically active. National Physical Fitness and Sports Month is a great time to spread the word about the benefits of getting active.

Here are just a few benefits of physical activity:
 

• Children and adolescents – Physical activity can improve muscular fitness, bone health, and heart health.

• Adults – Physical activity can lower the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancer.

• Older adults – Physical activity can lower the risk of falls and improve cognitive functioning (like learning and judgment skills).

Communities, health professionals, and families can work together to create opportunities for everyone to get more physical activity.

Make a difference: Spread the word about fun ways to get moving!