Dr. Ruth Peterson, director of CDC’s division of nutrition, physical activity and obesity, once said:
“If you could package physical activity into a pill, it would be the most effective drug on the market.”
What’s the problem?
1 in 2 adults live with chronic illness and about half of this group live with two or more. However, only half of adults get the physical activity they need to reduce and prevent chronic disease.
Consequently, not getting enough physical activity costs a lot of money. About $117 billion annual health care costs go towards treating chronic illness associated with poor physical activity levels.
What can physical activity do?
Physical activity protects health and saves lives. About 1 in 10 premature deaths can be prevented by getting enough physical activity.
Physical activity can also reduce the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
The benefits of physical activity for adults include:
- lowers the risk of high blood pressure
- lowers the risk of stroke
- improves aerobic fitness
- improves mental health
- increases cognitive function
- reduces arthritis symptoms
- prevents weight gain
The benefits of physical activity for older adults include:
- improves sleep
- reduces risk of falls
- improves balance
- improves joint mobility
- extends years of active life
- helps prevent osteoporosis and muscle weakness
- delays the onset of cognitive decline
What is the recommended amount of physical activity?
For adults:
- At least 150 minutes a week of moderate intensity activity such as brisk walking.
- At least 2 days a week of activities that strengthen muscles.
For older adults:
- At least 150 minutes a week of moderate intensity activity such as brisk walking.
- At least 2 days a week of activities that strengthen muscles.
- Activities to improve balance such as standing on one foot.
For more information about the importance of physical activity, or to find resources on how to start a physical activity program, visit: https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/index.html