National Physical Fitness and Sports Month

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 spread the word about the benefits of getting 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.

The Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans recommend that adults:

Aim for 2 hours and 30 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week. Moderate activity 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 is for everyone.

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! What are the benefits of physical activity? Physical activity increases your chances of living longer. It can also help:

Control your blood pressure, blood sugar, and weight
Lower your “bad” cholesterol and raise your “good” cholesterol
Prevent heart disease, colorectal cancer, breast cancer, and type 2 diabetes

And that’s not all. Being more active can:

Be fun
Help you look your best
Improve your sleep
Make your bones, muscles, and joints stronger
Lower your chances of becoming depressed
Reduce falls and arthritis pain
Help you feel better about yourself

Is physical activity for everyone?

Yes! Physical activity is good for people of all ages and body types. Even if you feel out-of-shape or you haven’t been active in a long time, you can find activities that will work for you.

National Physical Fitness and Sports Month