National Physical Fitness and Sports Month is a great time to spread the word about the benefits of getting active. Getting regular physical activity can benefit everyone – children, adolescents, and adults alike.
Here are just some of the benefits of physical activity:
- Children and adolescents – Physical activity can improve muscular fitness and bone and heart health.
- Adults – Physical activity can lower risk for 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 judgment and learning).
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!
How can National Physical Fitness and Sports Month make a difference?
We can all use this month to raise awareness about the benefits of physical activity – both at home and in the larger community.
Here are just a few ideas:
- Encourage families to make small changes, like taking a walk after dinner.
- Motivate teachers and administrators to make schools healthier by making sure physical activity is 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.
How can I help spread the word?
Get the Word Out
Add this free Web badge to your Web site, blog, or social networking profile to show your support for National Physical Fitness and Sports Month.
Get Involved
Take action to promote physical fitness.
- Be a community leader. Encourage families and communities to get active and empower them to make better choices.
- Host an information night featuring community members who have increased their physical activity. Ask people to share their stories and tips for success.
- Encourage others to increase their physical activity and sports participation by taking the President’s Challenge. Sign up individually or as a workplace or other group.
- Ask fitness facilities to offer discounted memberships or free guest passes and to share free information about physical fitness and health.
Adapted from the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports, & Nutrition.
Contact the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports, & Nutrition at fitness@hhs.govfor more information and materials.
