I want to share some information with you about "Active People, Healthy Nation", a new
initiative to help get 27 million Americans more physically active by 2027.
We all want stronger, healthier communities; to maintain a healthier work force; to help
our youth be healthy; to reduce health care spending.
Physical activity benefits communities and everyone within the community.
Such as reducing the risk for diabetes, heart disease, and cancer; reducing pain in existing
conditions like arthritis; increasing the academic performance in our youth.
Building active and walkable communities helps reinvigorate local economies, results in less
air pollution, and creates more cohesive communities.
Yet, too few Americans get the recommended amount of physical activity.
Only 1 in 4 adults and 1 in 5 high school students get the recommended amount of physical
activity.
Evidence shows we can increase physical activity in communities using effective strategies.
For example, we can improve the design of communities by connecting sidewalks to destinations.
This makes it safe and easy to walk or wheelchair roll.
We can improve access to places where people can be physically active.
This might mean opening up a school playground or track during non-school hours.
It could be adding a new walking trail to the local park.
By leveraging our collective strengths, we can achieve the goal of creating an active
America, together.
Help us build the momentum by joining "Active People, Healthy Nation."