Initiative for a Healthy Weight

Physical Activity

How can I be more physically active?

Many different things determine how physically active you are, such as how much time you have, how much you enjoy physical activity, and your level of motivation.

Part of becoming more physically active is understanding what is keeping you from being more physically active. There are many barriers that often keep people from being, or becoming, regularly physically active. Understanding common barriers to physical activity and creating strategies to overcome them may help you make physical activity part of your daily life.

Use these interactive tools to learn about your physical activity needs, what might be stopping you from being more active, how to get started, and more!

• Heart Healthy Physical Activity Quiz: Do you know how to take care of your heart? Take this quiz to find out.
• Barriers to Physical Activity Quiz: Take this quiz to identify the barriers that may make it difficult for you to be as active as you want to be and get suggestions on how to overcome those barriers.
• Physical Activity for Everyone: Getting Started: Are you ready to become more active? Click the link to find out what you can do to start getting more active today!
• Activity calendar Kids or parents can use this tool to find fun activities, make a physical activity plan, and track progress.

In addition to individual factors, our environments can also affect physical activity levels. For example:

• Unsafe neighborhoods or dangerous intersections can limit the time you spend walking outside.
• The location of stores can make you rely on your car for all of your errands.
• The lack or parks and playgrounds can reduce children’s activity levels.
• The cost of a health club might prevent you from joining.

Read more about these environmental factors that can limit people’s levels of physical activity.

Because everyone has different abilities and health issues, please see your health care provider before starting any physical activity program.