Warren County Guide to Physical Activity

President's Challenge

Dear Friend,

When President Bush unveiled his Healthier US initiative in 2001, it helped us to understand that we don’t have to run several miles a day to be fit and that every little bit of effort counts!

All of us, young and old, should incorporate regular physical activity into our daily lives.  We don’t have to join a gym or even commit to a rigorous exercise routine.  All we have to do is choose activities that fit into our daily routine. These activities must speed up our heart rate and breathing, or increase our strength and flexibility.

Here is the president’s challenge: 

n     Adults need at least 30 minutes of physical activity per day.

Sometimes we find it difficult to set aside 30 minutes a day.  If you have a difficult time blocking off 30 minutes, try breaking that 30 minutes up into smaller segments.  This makes it easy to take a walk or engage in some type of activity on your break or during lunch.  We don’t have to miss our favorite shows…we can walk on the treadmill during commercials!  We can park in the farthest corner of the parking lot when we shop.  We can build relationships with our children or grandchildren as we push them in strollers or walk them to school.  We can take the stairs at work or school.  With a little effort, we can all get in 30 minutes of activity a day.

n     Children and teenagers need at least 60 minutes of physical activity per day.

Although our kids’ schedules are every bit as busy as ours, it’s vital that they have an opportunity to exercise.  Normal childhood play or outdoor activity can help control blood pressure and manages weight while building and maintaining healthy bones, muscles, and joints.  Plan family activities that include physical activity, such as bowling, nature walks, water sports, and even yard work.

The Warren County Council on Physical Activity would like to encourage you to increase your awareness of opportunities to be active.  Let 2006 be the year that you and your family commit to 30 minutes a day to maintain good health!

Sincerely,

Denise Boyd

Warren County Council on Physical Activity