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 become more active.
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 most people don’t get the recommended amount of physical activity.
Here are just a few benefits of physical activity:
- Children and adolescents – Improve muscular fitness, bone health, and heart health
- Adults – Lower the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and some types of cancer
- Older adults – Lower the risk of falls and improve cognitive functioning (like learning and judgment skills)
Here are just a few ideas to increase physical activity:
- Start by making small changes, like taking a walk after dinner or going for a bike ride.
- Motivate teachers and administrators to make physical activity a part of every student’s day.
- Identify youth leaders in the community who can talk to their peers about the importance of being active.
The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommend that adults:
- Aim for at least 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week. This 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 good is for everyone’s health. 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!
During the month of May, we challenge all adults to get active every day!
Hayseeds Creative 