Physical fitness is not only one of the most important keys to a healthy body; it is the basis of dynamic and creative intellectual activity. — John F. Kennedy

Physical activity provides long-term health benefits for everyone!  By being active, you’ll burn calories—and it can be as easy as walking your dog or as challenging and strenuous as running a marathon.  

It's never too late to start living your best, healthy life!

 Physical activity, along with smart eating, is beneficial for everyone; no matter your age, background or ability. Over the last 20 years, there's been a significant increase in obesity in the United States.  About one-third of U.S. adults are obese and approximately 17% of kids and teens are obese as well. If things remain as they are today, one-third of all children born in the year 2000 or later may suffer from diabetes at some point in their lives, while many others are likely to face chronic health problems such as heart disease, high blood pressure, cancer, diabetes and asthma. Studies show that overweight kids may never achieve a healthy weight and up to 70% of obese teens are likely to become obese adults.

By incorporating physical activity into your daily life—30 minutes for adults and 60 minutes for kids—as well as eating well, you’ll experience positive health benefits and be on the path for a healthier, better life.

 Regular physical activity can produce lifelong health benefits such as:

• Prevent chronic diseases such as heart disease, cancer, and stroke
• Control weight
• Make your muscles stronger
• Reduce fat
• Promote strong bone, muscle, and joint development
• Condition heart and lungs
• Build overall strength and endurance
• Improve sleep
• Decrease potential of becoming depressed
• Increase your energy and self-esteem
• Relieve stress
• Increase your chances of living longer

So, get out there. Take a walk with your family, hop on a bike, or come visit us at the YMCA.  We’re here to help you stay on a path towards healthy living.

Resources:

1. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. U.S. Obesity Trends. (2011). From: https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/data/adult.html

2. Let's Move!. (2009). Learn the Facts. From: https://letsmove.obamawhitehouse.archives.gov/learn-facts/epidemic-childhood-obesity

3. Office of the Surgeon General. The Surgeon General's Call To Action To Prevent and Decrease Overweight and Obesity. (2007). From: http://www.surgeongeneral.gov/topics/obesity/calltoaction/fact_adolescents.htm

4. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2010). Vital Signs: Adult Obesity. From: http://www.cdc.gov/vitalsigns/AdultObesity/

5. Fitness.gov. (2018) The Importance of Physical Activity. From:  https://www.hhs.gov/fitness/be-active/importance-of-physical-activity/index.html