There is overwhelming evidence that physical activity is effective in preventing and treating many of the leading chronic diseases as well as maintaining healthy weight and improving longevity, well-being, and quality of life. Physical inactivity has been identified as the fourth leading underlying cause of death in the US and the world. There has been a boom in the sale of fitness products and programs, ranging from running shoes to smart phone applications. However, over the same period of time, rates of physical activity have stayed at a constant low and obesity rates have increased to epidemic levels seen today.
The science of physical activity promotion has progressed as well, and there are several intervention approaches that have been shown to be effective, including those targeting individuals, social groups, and community environments. Many of them also are cost effective. The National Physical Activity Plan was launched in 2010 to take these interventions to prime time. The plan presents an eight-sector approach to making physical activity routine. The plan's vision is to make it possible for all members of a community to be physically active and live, work, and play in environments that facilitate regular physical activity.
This web forum summarized the science behind the physical activity guidelines and discussed the role public health practitioners can play in facilitating more physical activity in the population.
Presenters:
- William Haskell, Ph.D., Stanford
- Joan Dorn, Ph.D., Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
- Russell Pate, Ph.D., University of South Carolina
