Physical activity can play an important role in your life and reduce the risk of many diseases. There was a study completed by the CDC, and it said, “About 1 in 4 Americans is physically inactive. The CDC defines “inactive” as not taking part in any physical activity outside of work in the past month.” As a country, we are inactive comparatively, but with regular physical activity and encouraging others to move, we can improve ourselves!
So what can physical activity prevent or help with?
It is shown that physical activity can reduce the risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, stress, arthritis, diabetes, obesity, several cancers, dementia, and depression. “Getting enough physical activity could prevent 1 in 10 premature deaths,” said Ruth Petersen, MD, Director of CDC’s Division of Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity, in a press release. We want you to be healthy and live a long, happy life.
Each age range has a different suggested amount of time to be active, so see what category you and your family are in and make a plan!
Preschool-aged children (ages 3 through 5 years) should be physically active for at least 3 hours, if not more. Adult caregivers should encourage active play that includes a variety of activity types and limits the sitting-around time, such as screen time.
Children and adolescents (ages 6 through 17 years) need at least 60 minutes or more of activity a day. This includes activities to strengthen bones, build muscles, and get the heart beating faster.
Adults should do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity a week and at least 2 days for muscle-strengthening activities. Adding more time provides further benefits.
Older adults (ages 65 and older) should do at least 150 minutes of aerobic activity a week and include muscle-strengthening activities 2 days a week. You should also add components, such as balance training as well. If you have limitations due to preexisting conditions, consult with a health care provider and be as physically active as your abilities allow.
Pregnant and postpartum women who were physically active before pregnancy can continue these activities during pregnancy and in the postpartum period, but they should consult their health care provider about any necessary adjustments.
Adults with chronic health conditions and disabilities, who are able, should do at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week. You should consult with a health care provider about the types and amounts that are appropriate for you.
Physical Therapy can help you get moving!
Physical therapists are movement experts and can help pinpoint the cause of your pain, make a plan, and help you reach your goals. If you are having issues with your mobility or have pain limiting you, ask your doctor if you can try physical therapy. Tell your doctor, “Send me to Premier.”
References:
Flavish, Paul, and Kathleen Creedon. “1 In 4 Americans Is Not Physically Active, According to the CDC.” Texas Public Radio, 20 Jan. 2022, https://www.tpr.org/public-health/2022-01-20/1-in-4-americans-is-not-physically-active-according-to-the-cdc.
US Department of Health and Human Services. Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans. 2nd ed. Washington, DC: US Dept of Health and Human Services; 2018. Accessed November 14, 2018.
US Department of Health and Human Services. Move Your Way. Washington, DC: US Dept of Health and Human Services. Accessed November 14, 2018
US Department of Health and Human Services. 60 A Day! Move Your Way. Washington, DC: Dept of Health and Human Services. Accessed November 14, 2018.
US Department of Health and Human Services. What’s your move? Move Your Way. Washington, DC: Dept of Health and Human Services. Accessed November 14, 2018.