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It can also increase the likelihood of developing other heart disease risk factors, including obesity, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, and type 2 diabetes. Not getting enough physical activity can lead to heart disease-even for people who have no other risk factors. It is especially important to include people who have been left out in the past, such as members of racial and ethnic minority groups, older adults, and people with disabilities.ĬDC aims to help 27 million Americans become more physically active by 2027 through Active People, Healthy Nation ℠, a comprehensive initiative to promote physical activity based on strategies recommended by the Guide to Community Preventive Services. When communities are developed or redesigned to promote physical activity, community members should be involved in the planning and decision-making process. It can also support local economies by increasing retail activity and employment. Creating activity-friendly communities can provide safe and convenient places for people to be active.
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Many people live in neighborhoods with poor sidewalk and street infrastructure, few safe spaces for physical activity, and few destinations (including transit stops) within walking or biking distance from their home.
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Not everyone has the same opportunity to be physically active. Learn more about the Health Benefits of Physical Activity for Adults and the Health Benefits of Physical Activity for Children. Improves bone and musculoskeletal health.Improves cognitive ability and reduces risk of dementia.Helps reduce feelings of anxiety and improves sleep quality.Reduces the risk of many chronic diseases, such as heart disease, cancer, and type 2 diabetes.Even short periods of physical activity can improve health. Everyone needs both aerobic and muscle-strengthening physical activity, according to the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans, 2 nd edition. People of all ages, races and ethnicities, shapes, sizes, and abilities can benefit from more physical activity. Physical activity can improve health now and in the future.
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