Since 1983, May has been observed as National Physical Fitness and Sports Month by the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports and Nutrition, and 2012’s theme is “Get active and play in May!”
Why does physical fitness matter?
- About 37% of American adults report they are not physically active
- Only 3 in 10 adults get the recommended amount of physical activity
- More than 108 million adults are either obese or overweight (3 in 5 Americans)
If you’re like most Americans, your busy lifestyle is what holds you back. Moderate daily physical activity (30 min. of brisk walking or raking leaves, 15 min. of running, etc.) helps to lower blood pressure and cholesterol, prevent or slow osteoporosis and reduce obesity and symptoms of anxiety, depression, and arthritis. The President’s Council on Physical Fitness and Sports recommends 30 minutes of physical activity 5 or more days a week for adults 18 and older, and 60 minutes of daily activity for children and teens. If that seems like a lot, don’t panic—you can break it into smaller segments of 10 or 15 minutes throughout the day and still achieve significant health benefits.
Find something that works for you and do it! Whether it’s hitting the gym, heading out for a hike, playing in a sports league or taking dance classes, your fitness routine should reflect your interests and preferences. Staying engaged in your workouts will only help you stick with the program – and heck, you may even enjoy it!
Don’t be discouraged. While statistics may paint a grim picture, the good news is that there is potential for tangible improvement in the way we live, work and play. Simply increasing your daily activity in small amounts can yield enormous benefits. With slight changes in your activity habits, you can achieve lasting change in your health. YOU have the ability to make things change for the better, so get going!
