In this post, we will focus on the contribution of physical activity. It is one of the best things people can do to improve their health. In general, too few Americans get the recommended amount of daily activity. In fact, only 1 in 4 adults and 1 in 5 high school students fully meet physical activity guidelines for aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities. These numbers are even lower among adults in some racial and ethnic minority populations.
Physical activity promotes health and reduces the risk of chronic diseases. Importantly, these conditions are often more common and more severe among racial and ethnic minority groups. Physical activity also fosters normal growth and development in children. Also, it improves mental health and can make people feel, function and sleep better.