Initiative for a Healthy Weight

Physical Activity

Why is physical activity important?

By being physically active, you can improve your health, look better, and feel better!

Too little physical activity can result in overweight or obesity. Obesity has serious health consequences. Burning calories through physical activity helps prevent weight gain, promote weight loss, and maintain a healthy weight.

In addition to decreasing the risk of obesity, scientific research strongly supports the role of physical activity in the prevention and treatment of disease. Regularly participating in physical activity can lower your risk of developing heart disease, stroke, certain cancers, diabetes and high blood pressure. Heart disease, cancer, and stroke are the top three leading causes of death in the U.S. Being active can reduce your risk of premature death from these diseases.

Physical activity has other health benefits, as well.

• Physical activity can help keep bones strong, reducing the risk of osteoporosis. It can also slow the progression of the disease.
• Physical activity can reduce joint pain and improve function for people with arthritis.
• Being physically active can also help manage stress and relieve symptoms from anxiety and depression.