Everyone Can Benefit from Being Active
The month of May has been designated National Physical Fitness and Sports Month by the President’s Council on Fitness, Sports & Nutrition. The effort recognizes that the epidemic of obesity in America has detrimental effects on individuals, families and the nation’s economy. One-third of U.S. adults are obese. And approximately 17% of children and teens (ages two through 19 years) are obese. The annual medical cost of obesity in the U.S. was estimated to be $147 billion in 2008.
National Physical Fitness and Sports Month aims to raise awareness of the importance of active living. Through the efforts of communities, schools and organizations across the country, Americans are encouraged to jumpstart their healthy lifestyle by being active and eating healthy.
Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans
In 2008, the Department of Health and Human Services issued the first-ever Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans to help people understand the types and amount of physical activity that will provide long-term benefits.
- Children and adolescents (6-17). Children and teens should participate in at least 60 minutes of aerobic physical activity every day. This amount should include vigorous physical activity at least three days per week.
- Adults (18-64). Adults should get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic physical activity per week, 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity, or a combination of both moderate and vigorous activity. Aerobic physical activity should take place in intervals of at least 10 minutes. At least two days per week, adults should also perform strengthening activities that involve all major muscle groups.
- Older adults (65 and older). Senior adults should follow adult guidelines. If this is not possible due to chronic health conditions, they should remain as physically active as possible.
Learn about the Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommended by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Department of Agriculture.
Take Steps to Better Health with Weigh Forward®
May is the month to begin important health habits now and for the rest of your life. To help you, RediClinic health clinic is proud to offer Weigh Forward, a medically-supervised weight loss program that includes comprehensive information and counseling on nutrition, physical activity and behavior modification. The Complete program consists of 10 visits with a specially-trained clinician.
Weigh Forward is currently offered at all RediClinic health clinic locations in Texas, and coming soon to Rite Aid stores in Seattle, Baltimore, Washington D.C. and Philadelphia! Learn more at www.WeighForward.info.
