Benefits of Physical Activity

There are many benefits to an active lifestyle. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, being physically active can:

Improve Brain Health
Help Manage Weight
Reduce the Risk of Disease
Strengthen Bones and Muscles
Improve your Ability to do Everyday Activities

Learn more about the benefits of regular physical activity here!

How much physical activity do I need to stay healthy?

We know that physical activity keeps us healthy. But how much do we need? The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services has put forth recommendations for physical activity in their Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans. Use the resources below to explore recommendations by age.

Children age 3-5
Children and adolescents age 6-17
Adults age 18-64
Adults 65 and older
Adults with chronic health conditions and disabilities
Healthy pregnant or postpartum women

Physical Activity Resources

Even if you haven’t been physically active for a while, there are ways to get started. A variety of programs and support are available. Wondering how to add more physical activity into your life? Here are some resources to help you get moving.

Learn More About Physical Activity

Move Your Way: Videos with ideas for physical activity.
Active People, Healthy Nation: A national initiative to increase physical activity.
CDC Physical Activity Basics: Guidelines, resources, and ideas for different age groups.

Free Physical Activity Apps

AllTrails: Search for places to walk and run by city, park, or trail name. 
ParkPassport: Search for local, state, and national parks and recreation areas. 
Playground Buddy: Find over 200,000 playgrounds in 170 countries. 
TrailLink: Locate trails for hiking, biking, walking, running, and skating by state, zip code, or trail name.
GirlTrek: Find Facebook pages for Black women’s walking groups in 33 states.

Physical Activity Programs

parkrun: Locate free weekly 5K runs in over 24 countries. 
Walk With a Doc: See free events to learn about a topic from a health care professional, then enjoy a walk and conversation with others. 
Walk With Ease: A self-guided online walking program for people with arthritis.
DeskFit: Activities to stay active without leaving your home or office.

Local Organizations

pdsF.U.S.I.O.N.: Find fitness programs for all levels and abilities. 
YMCA: Find a facility by city, state, or zip code. 
Boys & Girls Club: Sports, fitness, and recreation programs for youth.
Winnebago County Health Department: Wellness Plus classes for healthy aging.