Importance of Physical Activity

The importance of physical activity has been spotlighted by its selection as one of the Healthy People 2020 goals, specifically to improve health, fitness, and quality of life through daily physical activity. The Healthy People 2020 campaign has identified that, “More than 80 percent of adults do not meet the guidelines for both aerobic and muscle-strengthening activities.” Retrieved from Healthy People 2020 http://healthypeople.gov/2020.

Begin this week’s activities by viewing the Healthy People 2020 website at http://www.healthypeople.gov/2020/topics-objectives/topic/physical-activity. Review the material on the overview, objective, and national snapshot tabs on this webpage. Select and review at least 1 of the consumer information resources on the interventions and resources tabs. Consider: What is my level of physical activity? How does it impact how I function at work, in school, and in the community? When my patients look at me what do they see? Am I a role model for physical activity and health? Consider the impact on your credibility as a patient educator.

We have all “heard” it before. Physical activity is good for us. It reduces the risk of and mitigates against the effects of chronic illness. It improves mood by stimulating the release of the body’s natural antidepressants-endorphins. It helps relieve stress and it helps us maintain a healthy body weight. It helps maintain our strength and stamina. Take a moment to reflect: Do you do more than just “hear it”? What effects have your level of physical activity had on your life? Your career? Your family and social relationships?

Consider this week’s module an opportunity for deeper reflection, self-assessment and personal and professional renewal. The Centers for Disease Control website http://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/index.html offers readings, educational videos, tools and strategies for improving and enhancing personal, family, workplace and community physical activity.  Conduct a comprehensive review of each of the sections. Prior to completing your review on the above, also turn your attention to the state physical activity indicator report for 2014 at https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/downloads/pa_state_indicator_report_2014.pdf These reports will provide community wide assessment updates and information.

After reading the websites cited above, develop a one-page Physical Activity Resource Brochure/infographic. Imagine that your peers all live in the same general location. Research one fun and unusual but accessible activity that will meet the physical activity goals of you and your peers.

Remember to search for activities on Living Social, Groupon, Department of Recreation and Parks brochures, club and meetings sections of the newspaper, bulletin boards in your favorite neighborhood coffee shop or grocery store, etc. Develop a one-page infographic as the brochure which offers information on:

• a description of the activity
• cost
• when and where
• website or copy of the listing location

The activity should be described as above noted with the addition of photos or graphics to enhance the brochure. Pictures and graphics are required.